Duggan, Jammu & Kashmir — August 2025:
In a deeply inspiring tale from Duggan, a remote area in Jammu and Kashmir, Master Akshay Sharma, an 8-year-old student of Class 3 at Duggan High School, overcame his speech challenges thanks to the extraordinary dedication of Captain Saurabh Salunkhe, an Army doctor who went far beyond his call of duty.
Akshay, the son of Mr. Kulwant Sharma, a civilian labourer working with the Indian Army, was evaluated during a medical camp in field conditions. It was observed that he had delayed or impaired speech development. Understanding the challenges and the lack of access to specialized care in the region, Capt Salunkhe decided to take matters into his own hands — quite literally.
With no formal training in speech therapy, he studied speech therapy techniques on his own time and initiated a step-by-step program to help Akshay. The training began with simple gargling exercises, gradually progressing to tongue and jaw movements, then on to labial, nasal, and oral sound differentiation.
Each day, for 2–3 hours during off-duty hours, the Army doctor worked tirelessly with Akshay — helping him move from sounds to syllables, and eventually full sentences. After 8 weeks of consistent effort, Akshay now confidently speaks, marking a life-changing transformation for the young boy and his family.
This incredible effort stands as a glowing example of how compassion, perseverance, and service can create lasting change. It also highlights the human side of our armed forces, who serve not just with strength but with heart.
