Sepoy Pardeep Singh was a brave and dedicated soldier of the Indian Army who made the supreme sacrifice during a fierce counter-terrorism operation in the forests of Kokernag, Anantnag, on 13 September 2023. Hailing from Balamgarh village in Samana, Patiala, Punjab, he had joined the Indian Army in December 2015 and went on to serve with the Sikh Light Infantry and 19 Rashtriya Rifles.
Serving with 19 Rashtriya Rifles in Anantnag, Sepoy Pardeep Singh operated in one of Jammu and Kashmir's most challenging counter-terrorism environments. His duties demanded courage, alertness and complete devotion to his comrades and mission. During his service, he earned the respect of those who served alongside him through his commitment and professionalism.
Pardeep had married Seema Rani in November 2022. At the time of his martyrdom, his family was awaiting the arrival of their first child. For his loved ones, the loss was immeasurable, but his life and service remain a matter of immense pride.
Kokernag Operation: 12/13 September 2023
On the intervening night of 12 and 13 September 2023, security forces launched a joint operation in the dense forests around Gadool village in Kokernag, Anantnag, after receiving intelligence about the presence of terrorists. Sepoy Pardeep Singh was part of the 19 Rashtriya Rifles team involved in the operation.
As the troops advanced towards the suspected hideout, terrorists opened intense fire from concealed positions. Sepoy Pardeep Singh, serving as a leading scout, immediately returned fire and provided cover for his comrades. Despite the grave danger, he continued to engage the terrorists and helped enable his team to take positions and continue the operation.
During the fierce exchange of fire, Sepoy Pardeep Singh sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Despite being seriously wounded, he continued to fight alongside his comrades. His courage and determination under fire reflected the highest traditions of the Indian Army and his deep commitment to the men serving beside him.
As the operation continued in the difficult forested terrain, Pardeep became separated from the team. Extensive efforts were undertaken to locate him amid the challenging conditions. His mortal remains were recovered several days later, on 18 September 2023, bringing a painful conclusion to the search for the Braveheart.
Sepoy Pardeep Singh was 27 years old when he made the supreme sacrifice. He was survived by his father, Darshan Singh, his wife Seema Rani and his brother Kuldeep Singh. His mortal remains were taken to his native village, where he was accorded full military honours.
For his conspicuous gallantry, unwavering devotion to duty and courage in the face of intense enemy fire, Sepoy Pardeep Singh was posthumously awarded the Shaurya Chakra. The award recognised his exceptional bravery and his actions in protecting his comrades during the Kokernag operation.
Sepoy Pardeep Singh remains remembered as a Braveheart who stood his ground when his comrades needed him most. His courage in the forests of Kokernag and his selfless devotion to his team form a lasting part of the proud legacy of the Indian Army.
We Remember
Lest We Forget.
