How Colonel Santosh Mahadik won hearts, minds and battles: A heroic tale of sacrifice and service

Colonel Santosh Yashwant Mahadik's life story is a testament to his indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication to serving the nation, all while leading a life less ordinary. Born on January 15, 1977, in Pogarwadi, Maharashtra, he embarked on a remarkable journey from a small village to becoming an icon of courage. Col. Mahadik was the son of a dairy farmer, Shri Madhukar Ramchandra Ghorpade, and Smt. Kalinda. His early life was marked by humility and hard work, values that would shape his character. His education took him to Sainik School Satara in Maharashtra, where his path towards a military career began to unfold. Following the Chetwode motto and into the elite ranks Col. Mahadik's journey continued through the esteemed halls of the National Defence Academy and the Indian Military Academy. It was here that he developed a deep-seated passion for serving in the armed forces. He was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in December 1998, at the young age of 21.Col Santosh Mahadik trained Hony Lt Col MS Dhoni in paragliding. (Credit- Twitter)His unwavering dedication led him to volunteer for the Para Special Forces, where a gruelling probation period awaited. He earned his place in the elite 21 Para (SF) unit, specializing in Jungle Warfare, Mountain Warfare, and Counter-Insurgency/Counter-Terrorism operations. Col. Mahadik's career was marked by numerous operations, including the Kargil War, Operation Orchid in Arunachal Pradesh, Operation Rhino in Assam, Operation Rakshak in Jammu and Kashmir, and Operation Hifazat in Manipur. His valour and commitment earned him several gallantry awards, including the prestigious "Shaurya Chakra." A Vision for Kashmir: Winning hearts and minds Col. Mahadik's leadership extended beyond the battlefield. He believed in the power of winning hearts and minds and actively worked to foster a stronger connection between the military and the local community. His efforts included reconstructing old monuments, organizing sports events, and sending local youth on educational tours. Col. Mahadik's vision also encompassed reviving tourism in the region. He saw it as a means to provide employment opportunities for the youth, diverting them from the path of radicalization. His multifaceted approach, from mentorship to counselling, created a lasting impact in the hearts and minds of people in the Kashmir Valley. The Ultimate Sacrifice: Kupwara Operation In a tragic turn of events, Colonel Santosh Mahadik, who was commanding the 41st Battalion Rashtriya Rifles, lost his life while leading an anti-terrorist operation in the Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir. The operation took place in the challenging terrain of the Manigah forest near the Line of Control, where it was believed that militants had crossed the border to hide. Col Mahadik, always at the forefront of operations, personally led his men in the mission to thwart the terrorists' attempts to infiltrate the region. For a week, the terrorists had been elusive, but on this fateful day, Col Mahadik's unit spotted them. When challenged, the militants opened fire, leading to an intense exchange of gunfire. Col Mahadik was shot in the chest during the operation. The injured officer was swiftly evacuated from the hostile terrain, with one of his soldiers bravely carrying him down the hill to a location near the roadhead. Given the challenging geography of the Manigah area, air evacuation was not possible. Col Mahadik was rushed to the 168 Military Hospital in Drugmulla, situated just off the Sopore-Kupwara highway. Despite the best efforts to save him, he succumbed to his injuries on the way to the Army's Base Hospital in Srinagar.Soldiers pay their respects to Col Santosh Mahadik (Credit- Honourpoint)Col Santosh Mahadik was not only a dedicated soldier but also a remarkable leader. His valour, indomitable spirit, and unwavering commitment to the safety and security of the nation served as an inspiration to all. The loss of this heroic officer was deeply mourned by the Indian Army and the entire nation. His sacrifice will be remembered as a symbol of the courage and dedication of the armed forces in their fight against terrorism. He remains an eternal source of inspiration, forever etched in history and our hearts.

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How Colonel Santosh Mahadik won hearts, minds and battles: A heroic tale of sacrifice and service

An account of Col. Santosh Mahadik's remarkable life, from a small village to a decorated soldier, and his ultimate sacrifice while leading anti-terrorist ops.

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