The Indian Navy has honoured Nagaprasad Raikar, a jeweller from Karwar, for his courageous act in rescuing a Navy officer who had collapsed on the railway tracks on August 1, 2025.
On that day, Navy officer Saketh Kashyap was en route to Mumbai when he accidentally slipped and fell from the train, sustaining severe bleeding upon landing on the tracks. Raikar, passing by, noticed the officer in critical condition and immediately transported him to the Karwar Institute of Medical Sciences, where he received urgent medical attention. Following initial treatment, Navy authorities transferred Officer Kashyap to INHS Patanjali hospital for further care.
Recognizing Raikar’s prompt and selfless action, Navy officials arranged a formal felicitation at Kadamba Naval Base. During the ceremony, Raikar was personally acknowledged by Officer Kashyap aboard the warship INS Tabar, commanded by Saketh Kumar. He received a certificate of appreciation and several commemorative souvenirs in recognition of his bravery.
Speaking about the incident, Raikar said, “When I was returning home from a friend’s place, I heard someone speaking in Hindi near Khadwada cross railway station. I discovered a person lying on the ground, bleeding profusely. I had no knowledge of his identity and immediately took him to the hospital, only to learn afterward that he was Naval officer Saketh Kashyap.”
He added, “I received a call from a Navy officer requesting a meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s office. Upon arrival, I learned that the person who contacted me was the commanding officer. It was a humbling experience to be recognised by the Navy.”
The Navy’s gesture highlights the importance of civilian courage and quick action in safeguarding lives, reinforcing the strong bond between the armed forces and the community.
