An officer cadet died at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) Gaya, during the routine training. Officer Cadet Kumbhar Atharv Sambhaji of the 64th Short Service Commission(SSC) (Tech) Course lost his life on 6 July.
As part of the endurance training, Atharv was running a 20-kilometer cross-country battle back run, when he collapsed, as he neared the finish line. He was given instantaneous medical assistance and was rushed to Anugrah Narayan Magadh Medical College and Hospital. The doctors declared the 25-year-old dead.
Preliminary reports have cited a cardiac arrest as the reason behind the death. On 8 July 2025, Atharv's body was brought to his hometown for the final ceremonies after first being flown to Patna and then to Pune.
"He was among our most promising trainees and showed excellent physical and mental resilience", said OTA Gaya's Commandant Lt Gen SS Dahiya.
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Coming from Maharashtra's Palus village, Sangli, since childhood, Atharv dreamed of serving in the Indian Armed Forces.
Son of a farmer, Athrav, worked hard for his dream, but unfortunately, won't be able to serve the nation donning olive green uniform. Athrav was working in Pune, in the IT sector, while he prepared for the CDSE - Combined Defence Services Examination.
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