Maharashtra's Buldhana bids a "hero's farewell" to Agniveer Akshay Laxman

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In a solemn gathering at the residence of Agniveer Akshay Laxman Gawate in the Pimpalgaon Sarai village of Buldhana district in Maharashtra, people paid their respects to a "true hero". Laxman Gawate died in the world's highest battlefield, the Siachen Glacier, and has left the entire Buldhana district in mourning.

Agniveer Akshay Laxman, the first of his kind to die in the line of duty, was a young man with a dream. After pursuing a BCom degree, his heart was set on serving his nation in the Indian Army, as shared by his father, Laxman Gawate. His aspirations and unwavering dedication "to this noble cause" have brought people from all walks of life to his family's doorstep to commemorate his sacrifice.

Laxman Gawate, the grieving father of the fallen soldier, told news agency ANI, "...After getting a BCom degree, he wanted to join the Army...I last spoke to him on 20th October. He had asked me if I was keeping well and if his brother was doing fine."

The Siachen Glacier, situated in the forbidding heights of the Himalayas, is recognized as the world's highest battlefield. It is a place where extreme cold and treacherous terrain push the limits of human endurance. Agniveer (Operator) Laxman, a resident of Aurangabad in Maharashtra, succumbed to "medical complications arising out of high-altitude conditions," as confirmed by an officer.

"All ranks of Fire and Fury Corps salute the supreme sacrifice of Agniveer (Operator) Gawate Akshay Laxman, in the line of duty, in the unforgiving heights of Siachen and offer deepest condolences to the family," the Army's Leh-based 14 Corps posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday.

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The news of his passing prompted a strong response from the veteran community on social media, highlighting the disparities between Agniveers and regular soldiers, whose families are entitled to pensions and other benefits when they die while on duty. Subsequently, an Indian Army official clarified that the deceased Agniveer's family will receive ₹48 lakh non-contributory insurance and an ex gratia payment of ₹44 lakh, among other financial benefits.

"As per the terms of engagement of Agniveers, emoluments authorized to a deceased battle casualty will comprise a Non-contributory insurance sum, amounting to Rs 48 lakh. Seva Nidhi contributed by the Agniveer (30%), with an equal matching contribution by the Govt, and interest thereon. Ex-gratia of Rs 44 lakh. Pay for the balance tenure from the date of death until the completion of four years (more than Rs 13 lakh in the instant case). Contribution of Rs 8 lakh from the Armed Forces Battle Casualty Fund. Immediate financial assistance of Rs 30 thousand from Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA)," the ADG PI of the Indian Army announced.

Akshay's mortal remains were brought to his residence in Pimpalgaon Sarai village of Buldhana district for last rites amidst a rush of people who paid tributes to him. "It's a somber moment as people gather at the residence of Gawate Akshay Laxman, the first Agniveer who sacrificed his life at the Siachen Glacier, the world's highest battlefield. Sending condolences and gratitude for his service," a user posted on X.

"Our heartfelt condolences and gratitude for his unparalleled love for the nation. Each of us should be an Agni Veer. Let us dedicate ourselves to nation-building and be authentic in our thoughts, actions, and values for India," another user posted on the social networking site formerly known as Twitter.