Captain Anshuman Singh, born in 1997 in Bardiha Dalpat village, Deoria district, Uttar Pradesh, grew up in a family with a proud military tradition. His father, Subedar Ravi Pratap Singh, an army veteran, and his mother, Smt. Manju Singh, raised him with the core values of discipline, service, and patriotism. These values became the guiding principles of his life, which he dedicated entirely to the service of his country. His story is one of courage, leadership, and ultimate sacrifice, embodying the ideals of the Indian Army.
Early Life and Family Influence
Anshuman was the youngest of three siblings. His elder brother and sister also grew up in a home where military service was held in the highest regard. From an early age, he was surrounded by the ethos of service and duty, and it was no surprise when he showed a deep interest in joining the armed forces. His father’s service as an army subedar left a lasting impression on him, and he grew up with a strong sense of responsibility towards his country.
Anshuman’s parents encouraged discipline and education. His father, a veteran of many military campaigns, instilled in him the values of courage, resilience, and leadership. His mother, Smt. Manju Singh, nurtured his compassionate side, which later shaped his role as a medical officer. This balance of strength and empathy would define his career in the Indian Army.
Education at Rashtriya Military School
Captain Anshuman Singh’s journey towards a military career began when he was enrolled in the prestigious Rashtriya Military School (RMS) in Chail, Himachal Pradesh. RMS is known for shaping future leaders of the armed forces, and here Anshuman thrived. He was not just an excellent student but also participated actively in sports and other extracurricular activities, further honing his leadership skills. His academic brilliance was matched by his physical prowess, making him a standout student.
At RMS, Anshuman developed a keen interest in military history and operations. His admiration for India’s military heroes only deepened during his time there, and this interest strongly influenced his career choices. His leadership qualities were evident early on, and he was admired by both his peers and teachers for his discipline, focus, and determination.
Pursuing Medicine at Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC)
After completing his schooling, Captain Singh chose a unique path by combining his passion for the military with a dedication to medicine. He was selected to pursue his graduation in medicine at the prestigious Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune. AFMC is one of the top medical institutions in India, particularly known for training doctors who serve in the armed forces.
Captain Singh excelled at AFMC, where he was known for his academic achievements and his commitment to his studies. His decision to join the medical corps of the Indian Army allowed him to blend his interests in service and healing. He wanted to serve not just as a soldier but also as a healer who could provide crucial medical support to his comrades in arms. His time at AFMC laid the foundation for his future career as a military doctor, giving him the skills needed to serve in some of the most challenging environments.
Joining the Indian Army and the Army Medical Corps
After completing his medical studies, Captain Anshuman Singh was commissioned into the Indian Army as part of the Army Medical Corps. As a Regimental Medical Officer (RMO), he was responsible for providing medical care to soldiers, whether they were stationed in peace areas or engaged in combat zones. His role was critical in ensuring that the troops remained healthy and received immediate medical attention in case of injuries.
Captain Singh’s postings took him to some of the most remote and dangerous locations in India, including high-altitude areas like the Siachen Glacier. Known as the world’s highest battlefield, Siachen is a challenging environment where soldiers face extreme cold, treacherous terrain, and life-threatening conditions. His role as a medical officer in such regions required not only medical expertise but also immense mental and physical strength.
Serving at Siachen Glacier
In July 2023, Captain Anshuman Singh was serving with the 403 Field Hospital of the 26 Punjab Battalion, which was stationed at the Siachen Glacier. The glacier, perched at over 19,000 feet, is one of the most inhospitable military outposts in the world. Soldiers stationed here face freezing temperatures, high-altitude sickness, and the constant threat of avalanches and crevasses. Captain Singh’s responsibility was to ensure that the troops deployed at these forward posts received timely and effective medical care.
As a Regimental Medical Officer, Captain Singh’s dedication to his duty was evident. He worked tirelessly to keep the soldiers healthy and prepared to face the challenges of the harsh environment. His leadership and calm demeanor during medical emergencies made him a respected figure in his unit. His ability to provide quick and accurate medical aid in such extreme conditions earned him the admiration of his peers and superiors.
The Siachen Glacier Fire Incident: July 19, 2023
On the early morning of July 19, 2023, tragedy struck when a devastating fire broke out at the Chandan dropping zone in Siachen. The fire was caused by an accidental explosion in an ammunition stockpile, and it quickly spread due to the high-velocity winds that are common in the region. It was around 3 a.m. when the fire erupted, and the soldiers stationed there were caught off-guard.
Captain Anshuman Singh, hearing the distress call, rushed out of his Fibre Glass Hut without hesitation. He immediately realized that several soldiers were trapped in their shelters, engulfed by smoke and flames. Without concern for his own safety, Captain Singh sprang into action, determined to rescue as many of his comrades as possible.
Braving the raging fire and worsening conditions, Captain Singh managed to save four to five soldiers, pulling them out of a nearby hut that was dangerously close to catching fire. His calm leadership during the chaos saved lives, and he ensured that the soldiers remained composed while evacuating the area.
Tragically, as Captain Singh attempted to retrieve medical supplies from his own hut, the flames overtook the shelter. Despite multiple rescue attempts, Captain Singh could not be saved. His mortal remains were recovered only after the fire had been extinguished. His heroic actions that night saved lives but cost him his own. At just 26 years of age, Captain Anshuman Singh made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Sacrifice and Bravery Recognized
Captain Anshuman Singh’s extraordinary bravery did not go unnoticed. His selfless actions during the fire earned him the Kirti Chakra, India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award. His mother, Smt. Manju Singh, and his wife, Smt. Smriti Singh, accepted the award on his behalf from President Smt. Droupadi Murmu on July 5, 2024.
The Kirti Chakra was a fitting recognition of Captain Singh’s courage and sacrifice. His actions exemplified the highest standards of the Indian Army, demonstrating his commitment to saving lives even at the cost of his own. His bravery in the face of such danger stands as a testament to the values of the Indian Armed Forces.
Personal Life and Legacy
In February 2023, Captain Singh married Ms. Smriti Singh, an engineer by profession. His marriage marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, and despite his demanding military career, Captain Singh remained grounded and devoted to his family. His balanced approach to life, combining duty and personal fulfillment, made him a well-rounded individual admired by many.
Captain Singh’s legacy lives on, not just through his military achievements but also through the impact he had on those around him. He was a mentor and role model to young soldiers and officers, guiding them with his wisdom and experience. His leadership extended beyond the battlefield, and many of his peers credit him with shaping their careers and values.
Conclusion
Captain Anshuman Singh’s life is a powerful reminder of the bravery, sacrifice, and leadership demonstrated by India’s armed forces. From his early education at Rashtriya Military School to his heroic actions at the Siachen Glacier, his journey is an inspiring tale of dedication to duty. Captain Singh’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of soldiers and civilians alike, reminding us of the extraordinary courage and selflessness of those who serve our nation. His story will forever stand as a shining example of what it means to serve with honor and sacrifice.
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