HA 4 Rakesh Kumar NM

Hull Artificer Fourth Class (HA 4) Rakesh Kumar was serving aboard INS Vikramaditya, India’s largest aircraft carrier and a formidable 45,000-ton warship, in 2016. As a Hull Artificer, he was specially trained in the maintenance and repair of ship structures, including critical tasks involving the hull and associated engineering systems. Known for his professionalism, dedication, and sense of responsibility, he exemplified the finest traditions of the Indian Navy. On 10 June 2016, HA 4 Rakesh Kumar was assigned to a team overseeing the installation of a newly fabricated Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) pipe onboard the ship. The task involved two civilian contract workers who were carrying out the pipe fitment work in a confined compartment known as a Cofferdam. A cofferdam is a watertight enclosure used during repair and maintenance activities below a ship’s waterline and is often characterized by restricted access, poor ventilation, and potentially hazardous working conditions. HA 4 Rakesh Kumar was entrusted with the responsibility of connecting and supervising the operation of a submersible pump. He was stationed in the Power Generation Room (PGR), located one deck above the compartment containing the Cofferdam. Access to the Cofferdam was possible only through a narrow hatch connected by a long vertical ladder, making movement in and out of the space both difficult and time-consuming.

During the pipe replacement operation, Rakesh suddenly heard cries for help coming from the compartment below. Moments later, he noticed one of the civilian workers emerging from the Cofferdam in a semi-conscious state. Realizing that an emergency had occurred, he reacted instantly. Without waiting for assistance, he rushed down the vertical ladder, lifted the distressed civilian onto his shoulder, and painstakingly climbed back up to the Power Generation Room. Once there, he laid the worker beneath an air-conditioning vent in an effort to help him recover. It was then that he learned that a second civilian worker remained unconscious inside the Cofferdam. Without the slightest hesitation and with complete disregard for his own safety, Rakesh Kumar immediately descended the ladder once again and entered the confined compartment. Inside, he found his team leader wearing an Emergency Life Saving Apparatus (ELSA) and attempting to rescue the unconscious worker. The atmosphere within the Cofferdam had become extremely dangerous, with the likely presence of toxic and potentially lethal gases. Undeterred by the grave risk, Rakesh joined the rescue effort. Using all his strength, he attempted to lift the unconscious civilian and carry him to safety. However, the rescue proved exceptionally difficult. The worker’s clothing had become slippery and entangled with deck fittings in the cramped and confined space, making extraction nearly impossible. Despite repeated attempts and the increasingly hazardous conditions, Rakesh refused to abandon the rescue.

Fully aware of the dangers posed by toxic gas inhalation, he continued his efforts with unwavering determination, driven solely by the desire to save a fellow human life. He persisted in trying to free and lift the trapped civilian, displaying extraordinary courage, selflessness, and devotion to duty. In the process, he lost track of time and remained exposed to the poisonous atmosphere for far longer than was safe. While continuing his valiant but ultimately unsuccessful rescue attempt, HA 4 Rakesh Kumar himself succumbed to the toxic fumes and collapsed inside the Cofferdam. His actions that day represented the highest ideals of courage and sacrifice. Faced with a life-threatening situation, he repeatedly entered a confined space contaminated with deadly gases in an effort to save civilian workers, placing their lives above his own. His conduct reflected exceptional bravery, selfless service, and an unwavering commitment to duty under the most perilous circumstances. In recognition of his conspicuous gallantry and supreme sacrifice, HA 4 Rakesh Kumar was posthumously awarded the Nao Sena Medal. His heroic actions remain a shining example of humanity, courage, and devotion to duty, embodying the highest traditions of the Indian Navy and serving as an enduring inspiration to generations of sailors and citizens alike.