Second Lieutenant Rajesh Kumar hailed from Asmanpur village in Aurai subdivision of Muzaffarpur district in Bihar and was born into the family of Shri Ramvilas Singh. From an early age, he displayed a deep sense of patriotism and unwavering dedication to serve the nation. Inspired by the stories of courage and sacrifice of soldiers, he nurtured the dream of donning the olive-green uniform and protecting the sovereignty of his motherland.
With relentless hard work and perseverance, 2nd Lt Rajesh Kumar fulfilled his childhood aspiration when he was commissioned into the Indian Army. He joined the prestigious 14th Battalion of the Jat Regiment, an infantry regiment renowned for its long history of bravery, resilience, and indomitable spirit. The Jat Regiment has produced some of the most fearless soldiers, earning an esteemed place in the annals of Indian military history. Second Lieutenant Rajesh Kumar quickly adapted to the rigorous demands of military life and exemplified the ethos of his regiment with dedication and zeal.
Operation Pawan: 05 Feb 1989
In 1989, the Indian Peacekeeping Force (IPKF) undertook Operation Pawan, a pivotal mission in Sri Lanka aimed at restoring peace in the midst of a violent civil war caused by the insurgency of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The LTTE, a formidable and well-organized militant group, waged a brutal campaign for an independent Tamil state, employing guerrilla tactics, ambushes, and surprise attacks to resist the IPKF’s efforts. This mission was fraught with challenges, including unfamiliar terrain, hostile local conditions, and an enemy skilled in asymmetrical warfare. Among the Indian units deployed was 14 Jat, a battalion of the Jat Regiment, known for its valour and rich legacy of battlefield achievements. Second Lieutenant Rajesh Kumar, a young and dynamic officer, served in this esteemed battalion. Despite his relatively short tenure in the Army, 2nd Lt Rajesh Kumar quickly established himself as a leader of exceptional promise.
Operating in the rugged and dense terrain of Sri Lanka, the men of 14 Jat faced relentless assaults and ambushes from the LTTE, who were adept at exploiting the environment to their advantage. In these harrowing conditions, 2nd Lt Rajesh Kumar exhibited remarkable leadership, tactical brilliance, and unshakable courage. He not only inspired confidence among his troops but also demonstrated the ability to make quick and decisive decisions under fire. His unwavering resolve and calm demeanor in combat earned him deep respect from his subordinates and peers alike. On February 5, 1989, 2nd Lt Rajesh Kumar and his unit were tasked with a high-stakes mission: to neutralize a strategically significant LTTE stronghold. This position, heavily fortified and critical to the militants' operations, posed a formidable challenge. The mission demanded extraordinary bravery and a resolve to face overwhelming odds. Leading from the front, 2nd Lt Rajesh Kumar marshaled his men with inspiring courage and clarity of purpose. As they advanced under intense enemy fire, he demonstrated exceptional tactical acumen, maneuvering his troops effectively and inflicting heavy losses on the militants. Despite being outnumbered and under continuous fire, he maintained his composure, setting an example for his soldiers to follow.
In the fierce exchange that ensued, Naib Subedar Ishwar Singh, another gallant soldier of 14 Jat, stood shoulder to shoulder with 2nd Lt Rajesh Kumar, fighting valiantly against the LTTE militants. The battle tested every ounce of their strength and determination. The two soldiers exemplified the ethos of the Indian Army, prioritizing their mission and the safety of their comrades over their own lives. Amidst the chaos, both 2nd Lt Rajesh Kumar and Nb Sub Ishwar Singh sustained grievous injuries. Yet, their resolve never wavered. They continued to fight until their last breath, ensuring that their comrades could hold their ground and secure the objective. Their actions inflicted significant damage on the LTTE and disrupted their operations in the region. 2nd Lt Rajesh Kumar was a valiant soldier and a fine officer who led from the front like a true military leader and laid down his life at a very young age in the service of the nation.
2nd Lt Rajesh Kumar is survived by his father Shri Ramvilas Singh.
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