Sapper Shinde Ramachandra Shivaji of the Corps of Engineers, serving with 44 Rashtriya Rifles, is remembered for his exceptional courage and selflessness during a counter-terrorism operation in Pulwama district, Jammu and Kashmir. His actions saved hundreds of schoolchildren from danger before he confronted terrorists at the cost of his own life.
According to the Ministry of Defence memorial account, security forces cordoned off an area in Pulwama after receiving specific information. The cordon also covered a school near the suspected target house. Recognising the threat to innocent lives, Sapper Shinde volunteered to evacuate approximately 1,400 trapped schoolchildren to safety.
While leading the final group of children out of the danger zone, terrorists opened fire. He refrained from returning fire to ensure the children's safe evacuation, sustaining injuries in the process. Despite being wounded, he refused evacuation and played an important role in locating the terrorists, who had shifted to another house.
At approximately 1830 hours, the terrorists attempted to break through the cordon with heavy fire. Sapper Shinde held his ground and returned effective fire. Displaying exceptional gallantry and disregard for personal safety, he advanced and engaged both terrorists, including a foreign terrorist, before succumbing to his injuries.
His actions reflect extraordinary courage, selflessness and devotion to duty. By prioritising the safety of approximately 1,400 schoolchildren and continuing to confront the threat despite his injuries, Sapper Shinde demonstrated the highest traditions of military service.
He was posthumously awarded the Shaurya Chakra for his gallant actions. His sacrifice remains a reminder of the courage of soldiers who place the safety of others above their own.
