Major Ashish Dhonchak was a courageous officer of the Indian Army whose journey in uniform reflected determination, professionalism and an unwavering commitment to his men and the nation. Hailing from Binjhol village in Panipat, Haryana, he came from a humble background and worked hard to fulfil his ambition of serving in the armed forces. Through dedication and perseverance, he rose to the rank of Major and went on to serve in one of the Army's most demanding operational environments.
Commissioned into the 15 Sikh Light Infantry, Major Ashish subsequently served with the 19 Rashtriya Rifles in Jammu and Kashmir. His tenure with the Rashtriya Rifles brought him into the challenging world of counter-terrorism operations, where soldiers and officers operate in difficult terrain and under the constant threat of terrorist attacks. He earned the respect of his comrades through his professionalism, courage and commitment to his responsibilities.
For Major Ashish, military service was not simply a profession. It was a responsibility he carried with dedication. His service in Jammu and Kashmir placed him alongside soldiers who routinely faced danger while protecting civilians and maintaining security in the region. His courage and devotion to duty were recognised with the Sena Medal.
Kokernag Operation: 12/13 September 2023
On 12 September 2023, security forces launched a joint counter-terrorism operation in the dense forests of Gadool, Kokernag, in Anantnag district after receiving intelligence about the presence of terrorists. Major Ashish Dhonchak was part of the 19 Rashtriya Rifles team involved in the operation.
The difficult forested terrain and concealed positions made the operation particularly challenging. As the security forces moved towards the suspected terrorist hideout, they came under intense fire. The troops responded and continued the operation despite the heavy exchange of fire.
Major Ashish displayed courage and devotion to duty during the encounter. While engaged in the operation, he sustained critical injuries. He continued to perform his responsibilities in the face of grave danger before ultimately making the supreme sacrifice on 13 September 2023.
His martyrdom was a devastating loss to the Indian Army, his comrades and his family. He had recently entered a new chapter of his personal life, and his sacrifice brought immense grief to those closest to him. For his family and fellow soldiers, however, his life remained a source of immense pride — the life of an officer who had chosen to serve the nation and stood by his comrades when duty called.
Major Ashish Dhonchak's courage and devotion to duty during the Kokernag operation were subsequently recognised with the Shaurya Chakra (Posthumous). The honour stands alongside the Sena Medal associated with his distinguished service and reflects the exceptional courage for which he is remembered.
Major Ashish Dhonchak remains remembered as a Braveheart who answered the call of duty with courage and dedication. His journey from Panipat to the front lines of Jammu and Kashmir and his final sacrifice in Kokernag form a lasting part of the proud legacy of the Indian Army.
We Remember
Lest We Forget.
