I Served the Nation for 13 Years in High-Risk Border Areas
My name is Major Gaurav Ghai. I served in the Indian Army for 13 years, in some of the most challenging and dangerous terrains our country has. I have been posted in Siachen at heights above 20,000 feet, where temperatures drop below -30°C and survival itself is a battle. I have stood at the Line of Control, where the enemy was just a few hundred meters away and firing was a part of everyday life.
I was also deployed at the International Border during the tense period after the Parliament attack. I have carried an injured soldier on my back for five kilometers to save his life, because leaving a man behind was never an option. For me, service was never just duty. It was my responsibility, for my country, and for every soldier under my command.
I Led Rescue Operations and Never Let My Men Fall
There were moments in my service that defined who I am. I still remember the day one of my soldiers lost his arm in a grenade accident. We gave him first aid immediately, collected the remains, and I carried him on my back for five kilometers to the nearest helipad so he could be airlifted and saved.
In another instance, I helped rescue school children stranded in landslides in Sikkim. In the glacier, my team and I built bunkers and opened routes at extreme heights to strengthen our defense.
I made sure of one thing always, no man under my command would be left behind.
After Retirement, I Continued Serving Through Education
When I hung my uniform in 2013 due to family responsibilities, my service did not end. I truly believe a soldier never retires.
I started my life again from scratch. I worked as a security analyst and later began teaching students preparing for defence services. I saw many deserving students who lacked guidance and resources because of financial constraints. That is what pushed me to start teaching and later build my own publication and courses, to make quality education accessible to them.
Even without the uniform, I found a way to keep serving the nation.
My Health Started Failing in 2021
In 2021, I began experiencing symptoms of liver disease. I continued working through it, thinking I could manage, just like any other challenge. But in March 2023, I suffered a complete liver failure and was put on a ventilator for four days.
I spent 23 days in the hospital and exhausted a major part of my savings. From being on a wheelchair, I fought my way back to standing again. I returned to work because I did not want to give up.
But my body had its limits.
Today, a Liver Transplant Is My Only Chance to Survive
In August 2025, I suffered another severe episode. This time, the doctors made it very clear, a liver transplant is the only way I can survive. Without it, my condition will keep worsening.
Any further delay could leave me in a vegetative state or I may not survive beyond the next 6 to 8 months. For the first time in my life, I am facing a battle where courage alone is not enough.
So far, I have spent around ₹10 lakhs on my treatment. To arrange this, I worked day and night, taking continuous classes and pushing myself beyond my limits. But now, my physical condition does not allow me to work like before.
I have always been self-reliant, never asking for help. But today, this is my only chance to live. Even now, my dream is to recover and continue guiding students who aspire to serve the nation. A soldier may hang his uniform, but the spirit to serve never fades. I stood for this country without hesitation. Today, I am fighting for my life and need your support. Every contribution can help me stand on my feet again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Major Gaurav Ghai's Treatment
- Is Major Gaurav Ghai receiving treatment under ECHS?
No. Although Major Gaurav Ghai served in the Indian Army for 13 years, he is currently not eligible for medical support under the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS). - Why is Major Gaurav Ghai not covered under ECHS?
As per the eligibility criteria, pensionary benefits are generally available to personnel who complete the required qualifying service, which is typically around 20 years. Since Major Ghai retired after 13 years of service due to family responsibilities, he is unable to avail ECHS benefits. - What treatment has been advised for Major Gaurav Ghai?
Doctors have advised an urgent liver transplant. Following the transplant, he will also require hospitalization, post-operative care, medications, regular monitoring, and long-term follow-up treatment to support his recovery. - Has the family already spent money on treatment?
Yes. Major Ghai has already spent approximately ₹10 lakhs on his treatment, including hospitalization following liver failure, critical care, and ongoing medical management. He continued working despite his deteriorating health to meet these expenses.
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