In the freezing heights of Siachen, where the oxygen levels are dangerously low and survival itself is a battle, a Pune couple’s heartfelt initiative has brought a breath of fresh air to India’s brave soldiers. The couple, driven by a strong sense of patriotism and the desire to contribute to the well-being of those who safeguard our borders, has helped install an oxygen generation plant for soldiers stationed at the world’s highest battlefield. Pune Couple’s Heroic Act: Oxygen Plant for Siachen Soldiers highlights the power of compassion and patriotism.
In a heartwarming tale of selfless dedication, a Pune-based couple, Yogesh and Sumedha Chithade, have set an exemplary standard of patriotism and humanitarianism. Their unwavering commitment to the well-being of our soldiers led them to undertake a monumental task: installing an oxygen generation plant in the inhospitable terrain of Siachen.
“The plant will benefit around 9,000 soldiers, who are making a great sacrifice by guarding our borders in that area,” Yogesh says.
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The Genesis of the Initiative
The couple’s journey began with a conversation with Paramveer Chakra awardee Captain Bana Singh, who shared the harrowing challenges faced by soldiers stationed in the Siachen Glacier. The Chithades learned about the dire need for an oxygen generation plant at Siachen, the highest battlefield in the world. Determined to make a difference, they decided to take on the challenge of raising funds for this vital project.
Yogesh, an Indian Air Force retiree who left early, lists a few benefits of owning the factory. “At 22,000 feet, oxygen canisters that are transported from Chandigarh are delivered. There aren’t always helicopters available to deliver cylinders. He claims that transportation time and cost will lower once the factory is operational.
Fundraising Efforts
Yogesh and Sumedha Chithade began their fundraising journey by selling their valuables, including jewelry(worth Rs 1.25 lakh), as their first contribution. Sumeedha, the mother of a serving army major, even sold her earrings. She believes that charity begins at home – for she considers the army as her family. They traveled extensively across Maharashtra, delivering over 100 presentations to various institutions and individuals to garner support. Their relentless efforts and dedication inspired many to contribute, and they successfully raised the necessary funds.
Finding 2.5 crores was no small feat, and the pair visited every nook and pore of Maharashtra, holding approximately 140 programs at various organizations and highlighting the nation’s army men’s outstanding service. At the outset of our conversation, Yogesh Chithade recounts those days and asserts that the project was led by the public rather than by him and his spouse. This was made possible, according to the statement, “Every rupee contributed with blessings for our soldiers.”
He describes, filled with passion, a visit to an old age home in Pune, where an old woman asked him what little she could do to help the cause. When they told her that one rupee was sufficient, the woman gave up twenty rupees, her entire savings from her stay at the nursing home. Yogesh claims that the woman lovingly gave and hard-won 20 rupees were worth more than 200 crores for our heroes.
The couple officially established the “Soldiers Independent Rehabilitation Foundation” (SIRF) in 2017 while working at the oxygen plant. SIRF is still committing to helping families of fallen and current troops as well as fostering a deeper sense of respect for those who serve in the armed services.
“I have been working for army welfare since 1999. When I was at the Siachen base camp, I realized the climate there is extremely harsh. Even in summer, the temperature is at -35 degrees [Celsius] and it drops to -55 in winter. Our soldiers, who plod through 35-40 feet deep snow at the risk of developing snow blindness and frostbite, are lonely and cut off from their families and friends,” Sumeedha tells India Today.
Installation of the Oxygen Plant
The oxygen generation plant, imported from Germany at a cost of over ₹1.5 crore, was installed at an altitude of around 11,000 meters. The plant was inaugurated on October 4, 2019, by Lt Gen YK Joshi. This plant ensures a steady supply of oxygen, significantly improving the living conditions and health of the soldiers stationed at Siachen.
Yogesh describes how many soldiers approached him with tears in their eyes and repeated, “Aapne Bhagwan ka kaam kiya hain,” when people questioned him about the reaction of the soldiers stationed in Siachen at the time. Nearly 40,000 people, including military, residents, and tourists, receive oxygen from the plant. The oxygen plant proved to be a lifesaver for medical facilities in the isolated regions of Siachen during the coronavirus outbreak.
However, their quest is far from over. Yogesh notes that the facility requires a Comprehensive Maintenance Contract (CMC), which costs 40 lacs a year, in addition to routine maintenance, after asking about their next major project. Aside from their other efforts, SIRF is currently trying to raise money for this initiative. Yogesh makes a plea to everyone who can support their cause with even a small donation.
The installation process itself was fraught with challenges. The harsh Siachen environment posed significant logistical hurdles, but the couple’s perseverance prevailed. Their unwavering belief in the importance of their mission fueled their efforts.
Impact on Soldiers
The installation of the oxygen plant has had a profound impact on the soldiers’ well-being. It has alleviated the risks associated with altitude-induced ailments such as hypoxia, frostbite, and other severe health conditions. The plant has also reduced the logistical challenges of transporting oxygen cylinders to such a remote and high-altitude location.
Continuing the Legacy
The Chithades’ commitment to supporting the Indian Army did not end with the Siachen project. In 2022, they donated a second oxygen generation plant to a field hospital in the Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir, further extending their legacy of service and compassion.
The successful installation of the oxygen generation plant is a testament to the power of human compassion and the indomitable spirit of the Indian Army. Chithades’ selfless act saved soldiers’ lives, inspiring national support. National security is a collective duty, and civilians like Chithades exemplify this spirit. Pune couple’s act strengthens civil-military ties, inspiring patriotism and social duty.
Conclusion
Yogesh and Sumedha Chithade’s selfless dedication and tireless efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of the soldiers stationed at Siachen. Chithades’ story proves individual actions can create monumental change. Their noble act of providing an oxygen plant for the Siachen soldiers is an inspiring example of patriotism and humanitarianism.
The Chithades’ selfless dedication to our soldiers is an inspiration to the entire nation. Their story is a testament to the fact that true heroism can be found in the most unexpected places.
Readers wishing to donate to SIRF’s mission can visit: https://sirf.org.in/donate-us/
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