Subedar Hoshiar Singh of 19 Rajputana Rifles made the supreme sacrifice on 30 October 1987 during Operation Pawan in Jaffna, Sri Lanka. Serving with the Indian Peace Keeping Force, he led his men during an operation to capture important positions in the town. When sustained machine-gun fire pinned down his platoon, he advanced against the fortified position to remove the threat and enable his men to continue their mission.
A Soldier of the Rajputana Rifles
Hoshiar Singh joined the Indian Army on 15 May 1961 and served with the 19th Battalion of the Rajputana Rifles. Through years of military service, he developed the experience and leadership expected of a Junior Commissioned Officer. His responsibilities extended beyond his own actions to the safety, discipline and effectiveness of the soldiers under his command.
Operation Pawan in Jaffna
In October 1987, Indian Army units deployed in Sri Lanka were conducting operations in Jaffna under Operation Pawan. On 30 October, Hoshiar Singh’s battalion was tasked with capturing the Town Hall and Public Library in Jaffna town.
The advance encountered fierce resistance from a fortified position in a nearby house. A medium machine gun delivered sustained fire, pinning down the leading platoon and preventing it from advancing along its assigned route.
Recognising the danger to his men and the need to silence the weapon, Hoshiar Singh decided to assault the position himself. He crossed open ground under heavy fire and entered the fortified house, where he silenced the machine gun in a close-range engagement.
Courage Until the End
During the assault, Hoshiar Singh sustained grievous injuries. Despite his wounds, he continued encouraging his men to press forward. His actions helped restore the platoon’s momentum and allowed the operation to continue.
He later succumbed to his injuries, having made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. He was awarded the Vir Chakra posthumously in recognition of his gallantry, leadership and determination during the operation.
Remembering His Leadership
Subedar Hoshiar Singh’s actions demonstrated the responsibility a leader carries when the lives of his men depend on decisions made under fire. He placed himself at the forefront of the assault when his platoon faced a dangerous obstacle.
The Honour Post pays tribute to Subedar Hoshiar Singh of 19 Rajputana Rifles for his gallantry during Operation Pawan. His courage, leadership and supreme sacrifice remain part of the regiment’s history.
