Service No : IC-80786H
Place of birth : Varanasi (UP)
Service : Army
Last Rank : Major
Unit : 20 Raj Rif
Arm/Regt : The Rajputana Rifles
Operation : CI & IS Ops
Awards : Sena Medal
Martyrdom : September 19, 2025
Major Apraant Raunaq Singh SM
Major Apraant Raunaq Singh hailed from Banaras—also known as Varanasi or Kashi—the ancient spiritual heart of Uttar Pradesh. Growing up along the timeless ghats of the Ganges and amid the city’s vibrant traditions, he was deeply influenced by its ethos of devotion, resilience, and service. The stories of courage that echoed through Kashi’s narrow lanes, together with its centuries-old heritage of selfless duty, instilled in him a strong sense of purpose from an early age. After completing his schooling, Major Apraant felt a powerful calling to serve the nation. Inspired by the heroic legacy of India’s soldiers and driven by unwavering patriotism, he chose to pursue a career in the armed forces. In 2014, he joined the Indian Army and was commissioned into the 20th Battalion of the Rajputana Rifles Regiment—one of the Army’s oldest and most decorated infantry regiments. Renowned for its indomitable spirit and illustrious battle honours, the Rajputana Rifles was a fitting home for a young officer determined to uphold the highest ideals of duty and valour.
By 2021, Major Apraant’s professionalism and leadership had earned him a reputation for exceptional operational skill. During this period, he was attached to the 9 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) for counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir. That year, in Kulgam, a region plagued by militancy and unrest, he played a pivotal role in a high-stakes encounter. Leading his team with precision and courage, Major Apraant spearheaded an operation that successfully neutralized two high-profile terrorists who posed a grave threat to regional stability and civilian safety. His tactical brilliance and calm under fire ensured not only the mission’s success but also the protection of countless innocent lives.In recognition of his extraordinary bravery and operational excellence, Major Apraant Raunaq Singh was awarded the prestigious Sena Medal in 2022. This honour stood as a testament to his unwavering dedication, tactical ingenuity, and the fearless spirit with which he served the nation.
Kupwara Deployment (J&K): 19 Sep 2025
In 2025, Major Apraant Raunaq Singh’s unit, the 20th Battalion of the Rajputana Rifles (20 Raj Rif), was deployed in the Nowgam sector of Kupwara, Jammu & Kashmir—a region that has long been marked by militant activity and infiltration attempts across the Line of Control. The area demanded exceptional endurance, vigilance, and composure from soldiers, who operated under the constant shadow of danger. The battalion, functioning under the operational control of XV Corps (Chinar Corps) headquartered in Srinagar, carried out a range of missions—independent raids, patrols, and coordinated operations with other security forces—to maintain security and stability across the Kashmir Valley. Life in this rugged and volatile Area of Responsibility (AOR) meant that every patrol, every movement, and every mission carried the risk of ambushes, sudden firefights, and infiltration attempts.
It was while serving under these demanding conditions of high-altitude deployment, where soldiers face not only militant threats but also the harsh challenges of terrain and climate, that Major Apraant Raunaq Singh’s health deteriorated. On 19th September 2025, while still on duty in this forward area, he was admitted to a military hospital. Despite the best medical efforts, he tragically lost his life the same day. Major Apraant Raunaq Singh thus made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, standing steadfast at the nation’s border under some of the most difficult conditions of military service. His loss is a poignant reminder of the silent battles fought daily by soldiers, far from the public eye, to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and security.
Major Apraant Raunaq Singh is survived by his wife, Dr. Archita Singh.
Niket
2025 at 11:49 pmNaman
MD Rabbani
2026 at 7:54 pmMy painting on Matibhumi
Jai hind jai bharat
Harish P.H
2026 at 3:51 pmA Salute to Major Apraant Raunaq Singh, SM
“Some souls do not merely pass through time—they become a part of a nation’s eternal story.”
With profound respect, gratitude, and admiration, I pay tribute to Major Apraant Raunaq Singh, Sena Medal, a brave officer whose life was a shining example of courage, leadership, and unwavering devotion to India. Born in the sacred city of Banaras (Kashi), where the Ganges flows as a symbol of eternity and resilience, he carried within him the timeless values of duty, honour, and selfless service. Like the ancient river that never ceases its journey, Major Apraant dedicated every step of his life to a purpose greater than himself—the service of the nation.
From the spiritual heart of India to the rugged frontiers of Jammu and Kashmir, his journey was marked by commitment and sacrifice. Commissioned into the illustrious 20th Battalion of the Rajputana Rifles, he wore the olive green with pride and distinction. His courage during counter-insurgency operations in Kulgam, where he helped neutralize grave threats to peace and security, reflected not only professional excellence but also a fearless dedication to safeguarding innocent lives. The Sena Medal bestowed upon him was more than an award—it was a recognition of a warrior whose actions spoke louder than words and whose character inspired all who served beside him.
There are soldiers who guard borders, and then there are soldiers who become the very spirit of those borders. Major Apraant was one such soldier. Amid the icy winds, towering mountains, and silent uncertainties of Kupwara, he stood watch while the nation slept peacefully. His service was not measured by comfort or recognition but by an unshakable commitment to the oath he had taken. Even in the face of immense hardship, he remained steadfast, embodying the finest traditions of the Indian Army.
Today, as we remember him, it feels as though a bright star has risen above the Himalayan peaks he once protected. His life reminds us that true heroes do not seek glory; they embrace duty. They do not ask what the nation can give them; they dedicate themselves to what they can give the nation. Though Major Apraant Raunaq Singh’s physical presence is no longer among us, his legacy continues to echo through every fluttering Tricolour, every marching soldier, and every heart that beats with love for India.
I bow my head in salute to this gallant officer whose courage was as steady as the mountains, whose spirit was as pure as the waters of the Ganges, and whose sacrifice has become a sacred chapter in the story of our nation.
To Dr. Archita Singh and the family of Major Apraant Raunaq Singh, I offer my deepest respect and gratitude. Behind every soldier stands a family that silently shares the burden of service, sacrifice, and duty. The nation honours not only the hero we remember today but also the loved ones who carry forward his legacy with strength and pride.
“The river of Kashi flows on, the mountains of Kashmir stand tall, and in their silence lives the memory of a soldier who chose duty over self. Major Apraant Raunaq Singh is not gone; he lives forever in the gratitude of a nation.”
Jai Hind
Nikitha N Reddy
2026 at 12:02 pmMajor Apraant Raunaq Singh, was a paragon of bravery and commitment. His service to our nation exemplified the highest standards of dedication and sacrifice. Known for his tactical brilliance and unwavering resolve, Major Singh led his team with honor and integrity. His contributions have left a lasting impact on both his comrades and the nation. A true son of Banaras, he will forever be remembered for his valor and patriotism.
GANDIKOTA RAVISANKAR
2026 at 3:11 pmTribute to Major Apraant Raunaq Singh, SM
With profound respect and heartfelt gratitude, I pay tribute to Major Apraant Raunaq Singh, Sena Medal (SM), a brave and distinguished officer who served the nation with exceptional courage, dedication, and honor.
His unwavering commitment to duty, exemplary leadership, and selfless devotion to the country reflect the highest traditions of the Indian Army. The award of the Sena Medal stands as a testament to his gallantry and outstanding service, inspiring all who follow in his footsteps.
We remember Major Apraant Raunaq Singh with immense pride and admiration. His legacy of valor, integrity, and service before self will continue to motivate generations of Indians to place the nation above all else.
Salute to a true warrior, leader, and patriot. Your courage, sacrifice, and service to the nation will forever remain etched in our hearts.
Jai Hind