Lieutenant Shashank Tiwari’s Supreme Sacrifice: Young Officer Lays Down His Life Saving Comrade in Sikkim
In an act of courage and leadership, Lieutenant Shashank Tiwari, belonging to the Indian Army’s Sikkim Scouts, sacrificed his life while saving a fellow soldier during an operational task in North Sikkim on May 22, 2025.
What happened during the operation?
Lieutenant Tiwari, just 23 years old and commissioned less than six months ago, was leading a Route Opening Patrol towards a Tactical Operating Base in the challenging terrain of Sikkim. Around 11:00 AM, Agniveer Stephan Subba, a member of the patrol, lost his footing while crossing a log bridge and was swept away by a strong mountain stream.
The Indian Army, in a press statement, said, “Without hesitation, Lieutenant Tiwari displayed extraordinary presence of mind and selfless leadership by leaping into the treacherous waters to save his comrade.” Naik Pukar Katel also joined the rescue effort. Together, they managed to pull Agniveer Subba to safety. However, Lieutenant Tiwari was swept away by the powerful current. Lieutenant Tiwari’s body was recovered 800 metres downstream by 11:30 AM, despite the frantic efforts by his team to save the young officer.
Who was Lieutenant Shashank Tiwari?
Commissioned on December 14, 2024, Lieutenant Tiwari was known for his integrity, leadership, and unwavering commitment to his men. His actions exemplified the Indian Army’s core values of selfless service, camaraderie, and leading from the front. He is survived by his parents and a sister.
The Indian Army’s tribute
The Indian Army mourns the loss of a braveheart and leader who, despite his youth and brief service, upheld the highest standards of military valour and ethics.
