Lieutenant Colonel Dwarakesh isn't your typical army officer. In 2016, a cruel twist of fate robbed him of his sight. Yet, instead of succumbing to despair, Lt Col Dwarakesh emerged as a symbol of resilience, redefining what it means to be a soldier and an athlete.

Dwarakesh's journey began with a dream. Growing up in Tamil Nadu, India, he was captivated by the National Cadet Corps (NCC) program, excelling and harboring ambitions of a life dedicated to service. He joined the Indian Army through the technical entry scheme, drawn to the Corps of Military Intelligence. His dedication and sharp mind shone through, marking him as a promising young officer.

Then came the accident. A sudden tragedy plunged Dwarakesh into a world of darkness. It was a devastating blow, not just for him personally, but for his dreams of an active military career. However, this wasn't the end of Dwarakesh's story. It was a turning point.

He refused to be defined by his disability. With unwavering determination, Dwarakesh embarked on a path of rediscovery. He embraced assistive technology, learning to navigate the world with the help of advanced gadgets and the support of his comrades. He honed his mental strength, focusing on his remaining senses to develop a heightened awareness of his surroundings.

But Dwarakesh's spirit craved more. He yearned for the thrill of competition, the camaraderie of teamwork. In 2021, he found his answer in Paralympic sports. Starting with swimming, Dwarakesh plunged into the pool with the same tenacity he brought to everything else. He meticulously listened to his coach's instructions, his focus laser-sharp as he honed his technique. His efforts paid off, and soon Dwarakesh found himself on the podium at the National Para Swimming Championships, bagging a gold and a silver medal.

Dwarakesh's hunger for challenge didn't stop there. He set his sights on another seemingly insurmountable feat – conquering the treacherous Siachen Glacier, known as the "highest battlefield in the world." Undeterred by the harsh terrain and extreme weather conditions, Dwarakesh, along with a specially trained team, embarked on the arduous expedition. His determination and mental fortitude proved invaluable as they battled through blizzards and bone-chilling temperatures. In a remarkable display of human spirit, Dwarakesh successfully scaled the Siachen Glacier, etching his name in the annals of Indian military history.

But Dwarakesh's accomplishments extend beyond medals and milestones. He is an inspiration to countless others, demonstrating that disability need not hinder potential. He actively interacts with aspiring para-athletes, sharing his experiences and encouraging them to chase their dreams.

Lt Col Dwarakesh's story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. It's a story that reminds us that true heroism lies not in the absence of challenges, but in the unwavering resolve to overcome them. He is a soldier who continues to serve his country, an athlete who pushes boundaries, and a role model who lights the way for others. He is Lt Col Dwarakesh, and he sees no limits.

(Note: India accounts for around 20% of the global blind population. Project Eyeway is an initiative by Score Foundation that acts as a one-stop knowledge resource for those people who are living their lives with blindness. Eyeway operates a national toll-free Helpdesk — 1800 53 20469.)