This is an inspiring story of an ambitious young boy who decided to join the army at the tender age of fourteen. Despite rejections and hardships, he never backed off and finally got the chance to serve the nation during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. Check out this interview with an ex-Indian Armed medical Corp. officer, Ramswarup Yadav, and dive into his mesmerizing journey.
When did you join the army?
During the Indo-China war of 1962, an announcement regarding army recruitment was made, "whosoever is interested in the army can join it regardless of their educational qualification. At that time, I was a student in standard 8th.Since I was merely 14 years old, they didn't recruit me. However, I was determined to be there after completing my matriculation in 1964; I tried my luck again and got selected.
"The more you sweat in peace, the less you bleed in battle"
How did the 1971 war take place?In March 1971, the Pakistani refugees began to migrate to India as the Pakistani soldiers started to target them. The existing Indian PM, Indira Gandhi, ordered then Chief of the Army Staff Sam Manekshaw to prepare an attack on Pakistan.
On December 3, 1971, the Pakistani forces stormed into our country from Srinagar. They attacked Ambala and Jodhpur and further tried to capture Delhi.
Following the start of the war, the missile boats attacked Karachi on December 4, 1971. The task force of Osa Class Boats sank three Pakistani ships. The mission was codenamed Operation Trident. Despite the threat of an air, surface, or submarine attack during this mission, Commander Babru Bhan Yadav demonstrated bravery and perseverance. He set an excellent example of leadership with his unique strategic approach during the attack deep inside the enemy harbour. Operation Trident was a success, shifting the tide of the war in India's favour. Please tell us about life-threatening events during war A soldier is surrounded by threats 24×7. Cannons and gunshots are everywhere. During the war, a soldier was shot and required immediate bullet removal surgery. Finding a safe place was challenging, so the three team members (a doctor, a nurse, and an assistant) tried to perform the surgery during the night while hiding under a blanket. Since it was dark, they turned on the torch to identify the injured part to perform the surgery. Unfortunately, as soon as they turned it on, the enemy saw the leaking torch light and fired a cannon toward them. Consequently, no trace of the medical team or the injured soldier could be found there.
After witnessing such heart-drenching incidents, have you ever felt terrified on the battlefield?
Those who reside at home fear, those who fight the war do not. Initially, one may get fearfu thoughts. But when the war continues for
days, all fears vanish as we have no choice but to fight. Bombardments are erverwhere.
"We can't escape death if it's meant for us; if not, nothing can harm us; why should we worry"
Moreover, when the soldiers know that the Armed Medical Crop. is always ready to serve them in the best way possible. They feel a bit secure that they won’t necessarily die after being injured.
What are the responsibilities of the Armed Medical Corp.?
Armed Medical Corp. is one of the largest organised medical services in the country and the first tri-service (Army, Navy, and Air Force) organisation. It is divided into several sections. Regimental Aid, Advance Dressing Station, and Forward Surgical Centre. The RAP serves as the primary point of contact for sick and injured personnel before they are evacuated for routine tertiary care at a Base hospital or a Command hospital.
Can a doctor treat enemies at war zone?
We serve everyone regardless of religion, caste, creed, gender, etc. For instance, during the war of 1971, one Pakistani soldier had got severely injured and was left in Chhamb. He was hiding in reeds for several days. Gradually his health worsened, and he could not walk properly. He wasn't aware of the ceasefire between the two countries; however, he called us for help and was brought to me for treatment. On being asked why he was not showing up for so long, he said that the Pakistani army had warned him not to get caught by Indian soldiers; otherwise, they would brutally kill him. He also had a Grenade so that he could kill any attacking soldier. However, on getting treated, he acknowledged that his treatment here was way better than in his own country.
Who is at the biggest loss during war-like situations
Bank balance and infrastructure can be earned and built again, but life can't be achieved once lost; hence it's the biggest loss. I believe cattle are at the most significant loss during war-like situations. They do not commit any crime yet die as they can't save themselves in battle zones.
Final Words
Retired Armed Medical Corp., Ramswarup's army journey might have ended, but he still possesses the zeal and expertise required to serve society at any cost. His belief that every individual, regardless of race, religion, or nationality, has the right to seek the best available treatment inspires many upcoming medical professionals. We hope you liked the segment. For more such stories, keep connected.
.jpg)
