Shri Kuldeep Wali a professional meteorologist with India Meteorological Department was deputed to Antarctica as a member of the winter over team of the 28^th Indian Scientific Expedition in November 2008 and was expected to return back by November 2009.

An intelligent scientist, adorable multifaceted personality and an energetic member of the team who would bring smile to many faces, would go an extra mile to help others as also would stand by in the hour of need, is no more with us.

Born on 12^th April 1952, Shri Kuldeep Wali passed way on Monday the 1^st June 2009 at Indian Research Base Maitri, Antarctica in service to the nation.  He suffered a Massive Acute Myocardial infarction at 11:45 UTC (17:15 Hrs IST). Doctors struggled hard with all possible treatment but could not revive him and he bid farewell due to a natural death to this mortal world at 12:20 UTC (17:50 Hrs IST). He is survived by his wife Smt. Rita Wali and daughter Ms. Ranshu Wali.

Shri Kuldeep Wali left NCAOR, Goa on the 17^th November 2008 along with the second contingent of the 28^th ISEA. Took Emirates flight in the early hours of 18^th November 2008 from Mumbai and reached Cape Town, South Africa via Dubai the same day in the afternoon. After a brief stopover in South Africa the team left Cape Town onboard ALCI flight D4 on 21^st November and reached Novo Runway, Antarctica in the early hours on 22^nd November 2008. Ever since, he was actively involved in research and worked until the last.

His contributions to Antarctic science will always be admired by future generations. Shri Wali will always remain in the hearts of fellow Antarcticans and remembered with fondness.

For condolences to family and friends write to condolence.wali@ncaor.org