Capt Jitesh Bhutani SM

Captain Jitesh Bhutani hailed from Lucknow district, Uttar Pradesh, and his early life was marked by profound challenges. Tragedy struck when he was just two years old, as his father—an engineer in the irrigation department—passed away. The following year, his mother remarried and could no longer care for him. Amid these hardships, Jitesh found a loving home with his uncle, Dr. S. P. Bhutani, a retired medical officer, who stepped in to raise him. Dr. Bhutani nurtured the young boy with both motherly affection and fatherly guidance, ensuring Jitesh grew up with the values, support, and stability that shaped his character and future.  His early education began at City Montessori School, after which he continued his studies at La Martiniere Boys’ College in Lucknow and later at Birla Vidya Mandir in Nainital. Recognizing his potential and discipline, he was admitted to the prestigious Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) in Dehradun, where his dream of a military career took firm shape.

After successfully clearing the highly competitive National Defence Academy (NDA) entrance examinations, he joined NDA to begin his military career. Upon graduating from NDA, he proceeded to the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, for further training. In 1996, he was commissioned into the 5th Armoured Regiment of the Armoured Corps, one of the most elite and battle-proven arms of the Indian Army. The Armoured Corps is regarded as the “Spearhead of the Indian Army,” equipped with powerful tanks and mechanized forces designed for offensive operations and rapid mobility on the battlefield. Renowned for its speed, firepower, and decisive action, the Corps has played a pivotal role in numerous operations, embodying courage and professionalism in every mission.  His dedication and competence saw him entrusted with significant responsibilities, and in the later part of his career, he served with the 31 Counter-Insurgency Unit (31 CIU). Amidst the demands of military life, Capt Jitesh found companionship and love in Ms Lina, whom he met during his service years. Their bond grew strong, and the two were married in 2001, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his life.

Shopian Operation (J&K) : 15 Nov 2003

In June 2003, Captain Jitesh Bhutani’s unit, 31 Counter-Insurgency Unit (31 CIU), was deployed in the Shopian district of Jammu & Kashmir, along the Line of Control—a region notorious for militant activity. With several insurgent groups operating in their 'Area of Responsibility' (AOR), the unit had to maintain a constant state of alertness, prepared to respond to threats at a moment’s notice. On 15 November 2003, credible intelligence reports indicated the presence of hardcore militants in Shopian district. Acting swiftly, security forces planned a coordinated search-and-cordon operation to neutralize the threat, and Captain Bhutani’s team was tasked with a critical role in the mission. Moving with precision, Captain Jitesh led his men into the suspected area, skillfully positioning them to seal all possible escape routes. As the noose tightened, the militants, cornered and desperate, opened heavy and indiscriminate fire on the advancing troops. Unfazed by the sudden assault, Captain Jitesh demonstrated remarkable composure and leadership, urging his men to return fire and hold their ground under the intense barrage.

In the fierce exchange that followed, Captain Bhutani was struck by multiple gunshots. Despite his grievous injuries, he continued to direct his troops, ensuring the militants remained pinned down and the mission objectives were not compromised. Ultimately, his wounds proved fatal, and he made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. Captain Jitesh Bhutani’s courage, tenacity, and unyielding sense of responsibility stood as a shining example of the Indian Army’s finest traditions. For his exceptional bravery, fearless leadership, and ultimate sacrifice, he was posthumously awarded the "Sena Medal"—a fitting tribute to a gallant soldier who laid down his life in service to the nation.

Captain Jitesh Bhutani is survived by his wife Smt Lina Bhutani.