Himachal Pradesh News
Himachal Pradesh: Hritik Chauhan honoured with Jeevan Raksha Medal for saving two girls from speeding train
In a remarkable act of courage and selflessness, Hritik Chauhan, a young resident of Gagana village in Shimla district’s Chaupal area, was conferred the Uttam Jeevan Raksha Medal for 2024 at the state-level Republic Day ceremony in Shimla on Monday.
In a remarkable act of courage and selflessness, Hritik Chauhan, a young resident of Gagana village in Shimla district’s Chaupal area, was conferred the Uttam Jeevan Raksha Medal for 2024 at the state-level Republic Day ceremony in Shimla on Monday.
The award was presented by Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, recognising his bravery and quick thinking in saving the lives of two young girls trapped on a railway track, even at the risk of his own life.
The incident occurred near Solan city on the Kalka–Shimla railway track. Hritik, who works as a security guard through a private agency, was returning to his room after finishing his duty when he noticed two girls playing dangerously close to the tracks. At the same time, a train was approaching at high speed.
Without wasting a second, Hritik rushed towards them and managed to pull both girls to safety just moments before the train passed.
However, during the rescue, he was struck by the train. His leg became trapped in the track, leaving him seriously injured. Bystanders immediately shifted him to Solan hospital. Due to his critical condition, he was later referred to Shimla and then to Chandigarh for advanced treatment. Doctors treated him for a severe fracture in one leg and multiple injuries in the other, which required surgery.
Coming from a humble rural background, Hritik had completed his Class 12 and aspired to pursue higher education. Financial constraints forced him to take up a job while continuing his studies. Friends and acquaintances describe him as helpful, kind-hearted and always ready to assist others.
His heroic act drew widespread appreciation on social media and in the local community. The Jeevan Raksha Medal now formally recognises his extraordinary bravery and humanity.
Hritik’s story stands as a powerful reminder that true courage lies not in titles or recognition but in selfless action. His timely decision saved two lives and turned an ordinary young man into a real-life hero.
