Pune Soldier Loses Life in South Sudan UN Peacekeeping Mission
Vikas Gawade, a dedicated soldier from the 115 Engineer Regiment of the Bombay Sappers, has attained martyrdom while serving with the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in South Sudan. The Indian Army confirmed his death earlier this month. Gawade's passing has left his family and the entire community of his native village in Satara district heartbroken.
Humble Beginnings and Family Responsibilities
Gawade came from Barad village in Phaltan tehsil, located approximately 120 kilometers from Pune. He grew up in a modest family background. As the sole breadwinner, he supported his wife, young daughter, parents, and younger brother. His family relied completely on his income for their daily needs and future aspirations.
The Indian Army officially inducted Gawade into the UNMISS on March 19, 2025. He received deployment at Malakal in Sector North of South Sudan. There, he served with the Indian Heavy Military Engineer Company, which draws personnel from the 115 Engineer Regiment. Tragically, on January 6, Gawade lost his life during operational duty. He was actively involved in constructing a major supply route connecting Malakal to Paloich when the incident occurred.
Family Remembers a Loving Brother and Provider
Ajay, Gawade's younger brother, shared poignant memories of their last conversation. "He spoke to us on January 5 and promised to start building our family house once he returned home," Ajay told TOI. "My brother was the backbone of our family. We only managed to escape financial hardship because of his efforts and support."
Ajay further explained how Gawade consistently encouraged him to pursue higher education. "He always pushed me to study more so I could secure a good job," Ajay added. "Our father works as a mason, and we also depend on small-scale farming for additional income. Vikas carried the weight of our family's future on his shoulders."
Village Honors a Local Hero and Mentor
Villagers from Barad remembered Gawade as a grounded and approachable individual. Despite serving abroad, he maintained strong connections with the youth in his community. He actively guided young people toward careers in the armed forces, serving as an inspiration to many.
The village sarpanch highlighted Gawade's unique achievement. "He became the first soldier from Barad to serve under a United Nations mission," the sarpanch stated. "Through his dedicated service, he upheld the proud military legacy of Satara district and showed our youth what true commitment looks like."
Final Journey and Military Honors
United Nations authorities and the government of South Sudan completed post-mortem and documentation procedures in Juba. Army personnel from the 115 HMEC escorted Gawade's mortal remains. They transported his body from Juba to Mumbai on January 11.
Lt Col Satish Hange, the district sainik welfare officer of Satara, described the final rites. "We performed the last rites at the village cremation ground with full military honors," he said. "Hundreds of villagers gathered to bid farewell to this brave soldier. He carried their hopes beyond India's borders and ultimately laid down his life in the service of global peace."
