Report by:Mir Arif

Kupwara:Colonel Santosh Mahadik, Shaurya Chakra, Sena Medal is the name that entire Kupwara will never forget due to his dedication towards development for local population of Kupwara and for his brave and courageous heart.

Born in small village Pogarwadi of district Satara, Maharashtra, officer completed his schooling from Sainik School, Satara and later joined IMA, Dehradun. He was commissioned in Elite 21 PARA (Special Force) in 1998 and was an accomplished Paratrooper and Combat Underwater Diver.
While serving as Young Officer in Lolab Valley, Kupwara in 2003 he was awarded Sena Medal (Gallantry) for fighting with the terrorists.

After taking over the command of Fearless 41 Rashtriya Rifles he led several successful operations and brought laurels for the battalion. Other than operations, he made his place in the hearts of the locals because of his compassion to bring the youth of Kupwara into mainstream away from terrorism and also for his efforts to revive tourism in Kupwara.

On 17 Nov 2015, Colonel Santosh Mahadik, Sena Medal attained martyrdom while leading his troops from the front in Kashmiri Manigah. Later, he was awarded Shaurya Chakra (Posthumous) for his dynamic leadership and bravery.

Following the footsteps of The Braveheart, Mrs Swati Santosh Mahadik (wife of Colonel Santosh Mahadik) joined Indian Army, setting an example of patriotism and inspiration for the entire nation.

Family of Fearless 41 Rashtriya Rifles paid tribute to the Dauntless Tiger by praying in Sarv Dharam Sthal and then laid wreath in war memorial followed by inspirational speeches and motivational poems dedicated to Colonel Santosh Mahadik, Shaurya Chakra, Sena Medal.