Lieutenant Colonel Ajit Bhandarkar made the supreme sacrifice on 30 October 1999 while leading an operation against terrorists in Faizalabad village near Surankote in Poonch district, Jammu and Kashmir. Serving with 25 Rashtriya Rifles and associated with 18 Madras, he personally led the operation after intelligence indicated that armed terrorists were hiding in the village.
Early Life and Military Service
Bhandarkar was born on 31 December 1960 in Mumbai, Maharashtra. He attended Sainik School Bijapur before joining the Indian Army. Through his military career, he undertook responsibilities that eventually brought him to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
In 1999, he was serving with 25 Rashtriya Rifles in Poonch district. The unit operated in a demanding counter-terrorism environment, where intelligence-led searches and cordon operations were essential to locating armed groups and preventing attacks.
The Faizalabad Operation
On 30 October 1999, intelligence indicated that terrorists were hiding in Faizalabad village near Surankote. A cordon-and-search operation was launched to locate them and prevent their escape.
Bhandarkar personally led the operation. As the engagement developed, he confronted the armed men and continued to direct the effort despite the danger. His actions placed him at the forefront of the operation in difficult circumstances.
He sustained serious injuries during the encounter and made the supreme sacrifice. His loss was deeply felt by his family and fellow soldiers, while his actions during the operation became the basis for recognition of his gallantry.
The Shaurya Chakra
Lieutenant Colonel Ajit Bhandarkar was awarded the Shaurya Chakra for his courage and leadership during the Faizalabad operation. The award recognises gallantry displayed away from the battlefield, including acts of exceptional courage in counter-terrorism duties.
His family continued its association with military service. His elder son, Nirbhay Bhandarkar, later joined the Indian Army, while his younger son, Akshay Bhandarkar, entered the Indian Navy.
A Legacy of Leadership
Bhandarkar’s story reflects the risks faced by officers who personally lead operations in dangerous environments. He made the supreme sacrifice while carrying out his responsibilities in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Honour Post pays tribute to Lieutenant Colonel Ajit Bhandarkar, remembering his service, courage and leadership. His name remains part of the record of those who sacrificed their lives while serving the nation.
