Major Jitender Singh Shekhawat, Now Brigadier (Retd.), Shaurya Chakra, 34 Rashtriya Rifles, Who Fought On Despite Severe Injuries During a 1997 Counter-Terrorist Operation in Jammu & Kashmir

Wounded in Battle, He Continued to Lead His Men Until Reinforcements Arrived

Name Major Jitender Singh Shekhawat
Present Status Brigadier (Retd.)
Award Shaurya Chakra
Service Indian Army
Service Number IC-47112
Parent Regiment 21 Jat Regiment
Operational Unit 34 Rashtriya Rifles
Operation Operation Rakshak
Date of Action 08 September 1997
Place of Action Keechbal Dhoks, Drang Forest, Jammu & Kashmir

Major Jitender Singh Shekhawat, then serving with 34 Rashtriya Rifles and belonging to 21 Jat Regiment, displayed exceptional courage, leadership and devotion to duty during a counter-terrorist operation in Jammu & Kashmir on 08 September 1997. At a time when operations against armed militants demanded determination, tactical skill and immense personal courage, Major Shekhawat led his men into difficult terrain in pursuit of terrorists operating in the Drang forest area.

Serving in 34 Rashtriya Rifles under Operation Rakshak, Major Shekhawat was entrusted with the responsibility of leading his column towards the Keechbal Dhoks area. The terrain was challenging and the threat from armed militants was serious. As his men moved towards the suspected hideouts, the operation developed into a close and intense engagement.

Major Shekhawat led from the front as his column came into contact with the militants. In the ensuing action, he personally engaged one militant and shot him dead. When another militant took refuge inside a hideout, Major Shekhawat displayed remarkable courage and presence of mind by moving decisively against the position and throwing a grenade into the hideout, killing the second militant.

The engagement continued as another militant attempted to escape from the area. Major Shekhawat immediately responded to the developing threat. During the intense exchange of fire, he was severely wounded by enemy gunfire. Despite his serious injuries, he refused to withdraw from the operation or leave the responsibility of leading his men.

Courage Under Fire

Wounded and still under enemy fire, Major Shekhawat continued to engage the militants and succeeded in injuring another terrorist. Even while suffering from his wounds, he remained focused on the operation and continued directing his men until reinforcements arrived.

His actions demonstrated the qualities of a courageous combat leader. He placed the mission and the safety of his men above his own immediate condition and continued to exercise command despite being seriously wounded. His courage under fire, tactical judgement and determination played an important role in bringing the operation under control.

The operation resulted in four foreign terrorists being eliminated. Major Shekhawat's exceptional courage, leadership and tactical acumen during the engagement were formally recognised with the award of the Shaurya Chakra.

The award became one of the defining honours of a distinguished military career that continued long after the 1997 operation. Major Shekhawat continued serving in the Indian Army, taking on greater responsibilities and rising through the ranks. He eventually attained the rank of Brigadier before retiring from active military service.

His journey from a Major leading soldiers in the forests of Jammu & Kashmir to a senior Army officer reflects a career built upon professionalism, leadership and dedication to duty. His service also brought further recognition, including the Vishisht Seva Medal for distinguished service.

Major Jitender Singh Shekhawat's story is not one of a soldier who made the supreme sacrifice. He survived the fierce engagement, recovered from his injuries and continued his service to the nation. His story is one of courage under fire, resilience after being wounded and unwavering leadership when his men needed him most.

Today, Brigadier (Retd.) Jitender Singh Shekhawat remains a respected Shaurya Chakra awardee and decorated veteran of the Indian Army. His actions while serving with 34 Rashtriya Rifles stand as an example of the courage, tactical judgement and leadership expected from those who lead soldiers in some of the most challenging operational environments.

His story reminds us that gallantry is not only measured by the risks a soldier takes, but also by the determination with which he continues to serve after facing those dangers. Major Shekhawat's courage in 1997 and his continued military service thereafter represent a proud chapter in the story of India's counter-terrorist operations.

We honour his courage.
We salute his service.
We preserve his story. 🇮🇳

Search Description: Brigadier (Retd.) Jitender Singh Shekhawat, Shaurya Chakra awardee, for his courage with 34 RR during Operation Rakshak.