Major Vivek Singh Bhandral
Unit: 21 Para (Special Forces)
Regiment: The Parachute Regiment
Operation: Operation Parakram
Location: Machhal Sector, Kupwara, Jammu & Kashmir
Date of Supreme Sacrifice: 29 August 2002
Award: Sena Medal, Posthumous
Major Vivek Singh Bhandral was an officer whose military career reflected determination, professional excellence and a willingness to lead from the front. Serving with the elite 21 Para (Special Forces), he made the supreme sacrifice on 29 August 2002 during an operation in the Machhal sector of Kupwara, Jammu & Kashmir.
From a Military Family to the Special Forces
Born into a military family, Vivek was the son of Colonel Pritam Singh Bhandral (Retd.) and Smt. Rajkumari Bhandral. His father's military career had a strong influence on him, and he too chose the profession of arms.
He joined the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, in July 1991 and was commissioned as a Lieutenant on 19 December 1992 into 9 Maratha Light Infantry.
His ambition, however, was to serve in the Special Forces. He volunteered for Special Forces training and, after completing the demanding selection and probation, was inducted into 21 Para (SF) in 1995.
A Highly Trained Officer
Major Vivek was known for his physical fitness, professionalism and commitment to military training.
During his career, he completed courses including the Commando Course, Young Officers' Course and Signals Course. He was also a qualified combat free-faller and was selected as an instructor at the All Arms Wing of the Military College of Telecommunication Engineering, Mhow.
Before his final deployment in Jammu & Kashmir, he had already served in difficult operational environments, including Operation Rhino in Assam and the Kargil conflict during Operation Vijay.
His contribution during these operations was also recognised with an Army Chief's Commendation Card.
The Machhal Sector Operation
In 2002, 21 Para (SF) was deployed in Jammu & Kashmir as part of the wider operational environment of Operation Parakram.
On 29 August 2002, intelligence inputs indicated the presence of armed militants in the Machhal sector of Kupwara district. A search operation was launched, and Major Vivek was tasked with leading his men.
During the operation, troops came into contact with militants attempting to break the cordon.
In the ensuing exchange of fire, members of the team were injured. Major Vivek immediately took charge of the situation and engaged the militants.
According to the memorial account, he eliminated one militant and then pursued another who had taken cover and continued firing. Major Vivek engaged him at close range, but was severely wounded by machine-gun fire.
Despite his injuries and heavy bleeding, he continued the fight and succeeded in eliminating the second militant before eventually succumbing to his wounds.
His actions ensured the operation was successfully completed and reflected the Special Forces ethos of leading from the front and never leaving his men to face danger alone.
Honoured With the Sena Medal
For his exceptional courage and leadership during the operation, Major Vivek Singh Bhandral was awarded the Sena Medal posthumously.
The award is officially recorded in the Gazette of India, which lists Major Vivek Singh Bhandral, 21 Para (Special Forces), posthumously among the recipients of the Sena Medal approved for acts of exceptional courage.
The award formally records the recognition of the courage that defined his final operation.
A Legacy of Courage
Major Vivek's military career lasted less than a decade, but within those years he served in several demanding environments and continually sought opportunities to challenge himself.
He moved from the Maratha Light Infantry to the Special Forces, served during Operation Rhino, contributed during the Kargil conflict, and finally led operations in Jammu & Kashmir.
His comrades and those who knew him have remembered him as a professional, physically tough and composed officer who was willing to take responsibility when circumstances became difficult.
His story is therefore not simply about the final operation of 29 August 2002. It is about a soldier who consistently chose demanding assignments and built his career around service, training and leadership.
Remembering Major Vivek Singh Bhandral
On the anniversary of his supreme sacrifice, we remember Major Vivek Singh Bhandral of 21 Para (Special Forces).
He led his men in the Machhal sector of Kupwara, fought despite sustaining severe injuries, and continued the mission until his last moments.
For that courage, his name was added to the roll of India's gallant soldiers honoured with the Sena Medal, posthumously.
His courage was extraordinary.
His leadership was unwavering.
His sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Lest We Forget. 🇮🇳
