Naik Shivananda

Naik Shivananda hailed from Belatanahalli village in Gundlupete Taluk of Chamarajanagar district, Karnataka. Born on 2nd September 1972, he was the youngest among four siblings in the family of Shri Basappa and Smt Gurumallamma. From a young age, Naik Shivananda displayed a keen interest in academics and sports, and his upbringing in the serene countryside of Karnataka instilled in him the values of hard work, discipline, and service to the nation. He completed his schooling in his native place and went on to pursue his graduation in Chamarajanagar, completing it in 1997. Driven by a sense of patriotism and a desire to serve the nation, he appeared for the recruitment process of the Indian Army. His determination and perseverance paid off when he successfully cleared the selection process and was inducted into the Indian Army. He was recruited into the 16 Madras Battalion of the Madras Regiment, one of the oldest and most distinguished infantry regiments of the Indian Army, renowned for its valour and glorious traditions.

After completing his rigorous military training, Naik Shivananda was posted to various operational areas where he served with dedication and courage. Over the years, he gained valuable experience in different terrains and operational environments, further honing his soldierly skills and leadership qualities. In the year 2003, after having served a few years in the Army, Naik Shivananda got married to Ms. Suvarana. The couple was blessed with a son, Rithwiknanda, and a daughter, Susheela. Despite the demanding nature of his military duties, he remained a loving husband and a caring father, providing for his family and ensuring their well-being. 

Operation Meghdoot: 20 Feb 2006

In 2006, Naik Shivananda’s unit was deployed in the Siachen Glacier in Ladakh, one of the most remote and hostile operational areas in the world. Known as the highest battlefield on earth, the Siachen Glacier presents extreme challenges to the troops, including sub-zero temperatures, treacherous terrain, and constant threats from avalanches. Naik Shivananda’s unit was tasked with defending a critical sector of the glacier that remained cut off from the rest of the region during the harsh winter months. Apart from manning designated posts, the soldiers also undertook regular patrols to monitor the area and ensure the security of the borders. On 20th February 2006, the region witnessed a spell of heavy snowfall, further complicating the already harsh conditions. The massive accumulation of snow increased the risk of avalanches, which are a constant hazard in such high-altitude environments. On that day, Naik Shivananda was part of a patrol team entrusted with the task of maintaining vigil over their area of responsibility. As the patrol moved along its designated route, navigating through rugged and inhospitable terrain, it was suddenly struck by a powerful avalanche. The avalanche descended rapidly, giving the soldiers little time to react, and Naik Shivananda was swept away under tons of snow.

The Army immediately launched a massive rescue operation on a war footing. Specially equipped Avalanche Rescue Teams were pressed into service, deploying advanced equipment and working around the clock despite adverse weather and challenging terrain. The soldiers braved the extreme risks associated with operating at altitudes exceeding 19,000 feet, where the thin oxygen levels, harsh winds, and sub-zero temperatures made rescue efforts extremely difficult. Avalanches in the glacier are often triggered by the morning sunlight melting the upper snow layers or by the instability caused when snow accumulates on slopes between 60 to 80 degrees. Although the Army relied on the Snow Avalanche Study Establishment (SASE), an agency that monitored snow conditions through observatories at various locations in Jammu and Kashmir and issued timely warnings, this particular avalanche occurred without prior detection, underscoring the unpredictable nature of such hazards in the region.

Despite relentless efforts by the rescue teams, Naik Shivananda could not be located immediately. After five days of continuous search operations, his mortal remains were finally recovered on 25th February 2006. Naik Shivananda’s tragic loss was a stark reminder of the perils faced by soldiers deployed in such extreme operational environments. Naik Shivananda was a dedicated and valiant soldier who exemplified courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to his duty. He laid down his life in the line of duty while safeguarding the nation’s frontiers in one of the most difficult and unforgiving battlefields. 

Naik Shivananda is survived by his wife Smt Suvarana, son Rithwiknanda, and daughter Ms Susheela.