In a deeply emotional and poignant moment, General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), paid a personal tribute to Naib Subedar Baldev Singh of the 18th Battalion, Jammu and Kashmir Rifles (18 JAK RIF), who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the harsh and unforgiving conditions of the Siachen Glacier — the highest battlefield in the world.
The wreath-laying ceremony, held today at Shraddhanjali Sthal, Base Hospital, Delhi Cantt, was a somber occasion. General Dwivedi, with great reverence and respect, laid a wreath on the mortal remains of Naib Subedar Baldev Singh. The ceremony, although ceremonial in nature, was marked by deep emotions, as General Dwivedi, who had been a close mentor to Baldev Singh, bid farewell to a soldier he held in the highest regard.
Baldev Singh’s journey with the Indian Army began in 2002, when he joined 18 JAK RIF during Operation Rakshak in the Kashmir Valley. His path crossed with that of General Dwivedi’s in 2003, when General Dwivedi took command of the battalion. At that time, Naib Subedar Baldev Singh was serving in Delta Company. Even then, his potential stood out, and General Dwivedi, recognizing his exceptional qualities, nominated him for specialist duties in the Battalion’s Signal Platoon.
The bond that developed between them was not just that of a commanding officer and soldier. General Dwivedi, as the CO of 18 JAK RIF, personally mentored Baldev Singh, guiding him through numerous operations in some of the most challenging and dangerous terrains. The young soldier, in turn, exhibited unmatched professionalism, courage, and dedication, earning the respect of all who served with him. Over the years, Baldev Singh rose through the ranks, finally achieving the rank of Naib Subedar just a year ago.
The tragic loss of Naib Subedar Baldev Singh on April 20, 2025, while serving at the treacherous Kumar Post on the Northern Glacier in Siachen, left an indelible mark on all who knew him. He was part of the Signal Platoon at Kumar Post, which is located in one of the most inhospitable and high-altitude regions in the world. Despite the extreme challenges, Baldev Singh remained a symbol of resilience, embodying the very spirit of sacrifice and duty that defines the Indian Army.
His untimely death was not only a profound personal loss for General Dwivedi but also for the entire Indian Army. The bond that had grown over years of shared experiences, tough operations, and mutual respect made this loss even more devastating. Baldev Singh was not just a soldier to General Dwivedi; he was like a family member, a comrade whose dedication and bravery will never be forgotten.
Naib Subedar Baldev Singh’s legacy is one of selfless sacrifice, indomitable spirit, and unparalleled dedication to duty. He is remembered not only for his professional excellence but also for his infectious enthusiasm and cheerful demeanor, which inspired those around him. His life was a testament to the values that the Indian Army holds dear: courage, commitment, and service to the nation.
In his tribute, General Dwivedi expressed, “Naib Subedar Baldev Singh was not just a soldier in our ranks, but a beacon of courage and resilience. His dedication to his duty, his professionalism, and his unwavering commitment to the nation will continue to inspire every soldier who serves in the Indian Army.”
The Indian Army stands united in support of Baldev Singh’s family, and as a nation, we honor his sacrifice. The loss of a soldier like him leaves a void, but his memory will continue to inspire generations of soldiers to come. His legacy will remain etched in the hearts of his comrades, a reminder that true heroes live on through the values they impart and the lives they touch.
As the Indian Army salutes Naib Subedar Baldev Singh’s supreme sacrifice, we remember that the strength of our armed forces lies not only in their weapons but in the courage, resilience, and unwavering spirit of soldiers like him. His sacrifice will never be forgotten, and his story will inspire those who follow in his footsteps to continue serving the nation with the same honor and dedication (PR)