18 October 2023 | Remembering Cadet Pratham Mahale
On 16 October 2023, Cadet Captain Pratham Mahale of the 145th Course at the National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla, Pune, sustained a serious head injury while participating in an inter-squadron boxing competition. Two days later, on 18 October, he succumbed to his injuries at Command Hospital, Pune.
Pratham was in the sixth and final term of his training at the academy. He had joined the National Defence Academy on 18 April 2021 and was expected to complete his course in November 2023. He had been participating in boxing as part of his sporting activities during his training.
Following the injury during the boxing bout, Pratham was rushed for medical treatment and admitted to Command Hospital in Pune. Doctors performed surgery to address internal bleeding in his head. Despite their efforts, his condition could not be reversed, and he passed away at approximately 5 am on 18 October 2023.
Following the incident, the academy ordered an inquiry to examine the circumstances surrounding the bout, including the conduct of the competition, applicable safety procedures and precautions for participants. His family also sought a thorough investigation. The final findings of the inquiry have not been established in this account, and no conclusion about responsibility is drawn.
Pratham's mortal remains were accorded full military honours at the National Defence Academy. Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar, the then Commandant of the NDA, laid a wreath in tribute. The academy expressed its condolences to his bereaved family.
The incident occurred only weeks before Pratham and his coursemates were expected to complete their training. His passing cut short his journey at the academy during the final stage of preparation for a career in the Armed Forces.
The Honour Post remembers Squadron Cadet Captain Pratham Mahale and extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, coursemates and the National Defence Academy fraternity.
