New Delhi, October 24, 2026: In an inspiring story of courage, resilience and determination, Havildar Gurdev Singh of the Indian Army’s 16 SIKH Light Infantry (16 SIKH LI) has overcome a life-threatening mine blast injury to emerge as a medal-winning para-rowing athlete, demonstrating that the spirit of a soldier remains unbroken even in the face of extraordinary adversity.
Serving in the Indian Army since 2011, Havildar Gurdev Singh suffered grievous injuries in a mine blast in Uri, Jammu and Kashmir, in 2024. The explosion resulted in the amputation of his left leg below the knee, bringing a sudden and devastating change to his life and military career.
However, rather than allowing the injury to define his future, the determined soldier chose to rebuild his life through sports. His remarkable attitude towards adversity was reflected in a powerful thought that became his guiding principle: “If I can’t walk with legs, I can always march with hands.”
With this determination, Gurdev Singh turned to rowing, a physically demanding sport requiring exceptional upper-body strength, endurance, coordination and mental discipline.
In 2025, he joined the Army Rowing Node in Pune, where he began transforming his battlefield determination into competitive sporting excellence. Through rigorous training, perseverance and dedication, he developed the skills necessary to compete in para-rowing events.
His efforts soon began producing remarkable results. Havildar Gurdev Singh secured medals at several national-level competitions, including a prestigious silver medal at the 2026 Para Rowing Championship.
His transition from a soldier recovering from a severe combat-related injury to a successful para-rowing athlete highlights the resilience and fighting spirit that define the Indian Army.
The Army shared his remarkable journey under its #StoriesOfGrit initiative, recognising his ability to overcome physical limitations and pursue excellence despite a life-changing injury.
Havildar Gurdev Singh’s journey stands as a powerful reminder that courage is not limited to the battlefield. His determination to rebuild his life and achieve sporting success continues to inspire fellow soldiers, persons with disabilities and young Indians across the country.
From surviving a devastating mine blast in Uri to standing on the podium as a national-level para-rowing medallist, Havildar Gurdev Singh has demonstrated that while an injury may change a soldier’s path, it cannot diminish his determination to succeed.
