Capt Sanjay Arya SM

Captain Sanjay Arya hailed from Sivli village in Bhalessa block of Doda district, Jammu & Kashmir, and was born on 31 March 1977. Son of Shri Ameen Chand and Smt Amer Devi, he grew up with a deep sense of patriotism and an abiding desire to serve the nation in uniform. From a young age, he nurtured the dream of joining the Indian Army — a dream that shaped his character, discipline, and determination throughout his formative years. After completing his schooling and graduation, he continued to pursue his goal with single-minded focus. His hard work and perseverance were rewarded when he was selected to join the Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai, through the SS 68 Course — one of the most prestigious institutions of the Indian Army, known for grooming capable and courageous leaders.

Upon successful completion of his training, he was commissioned into the 5th Battalion of the 8 Gorkha Rifles Regiment (5/8 GR) — an elite infantry unit of the Indian Army, celebrated for its valour, discipline, and rich legacy of battlefield glory. As a young officer, he immersed himself in learning the nuances of infantry operations and tactical warfare, demonstrating both courage and composure in demanding situations. His ability to inspire confidence among his men and his dedication to the regiment’s ethos marked him as a promising leader destined for great responsibility. Through his actions and conduct, he embodied the finest traditions of the 8 Gorkha Rifles, carrying forward its proud motto — “Kayar Hunu Bhanda Marnu Ramro” (It is better to die than to be a coward). In 2000, while serving with the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Sierra Leone, Captain Sanjay Arya was awarded his first Sena Medal in recognition of his exceptional service and exemplary dedication to duty. By 2003, through his dedication and professionalism, he had risen to the rank of Captain, earning the respect of both his superiors and subordinates. During his posting in Jammu, he married Ms Shyamali on 11 May 2003, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his personal life. The couple was blessed with a daughter, Ruchika, in 2004, bringing joy to their lives. Tragically, fate had a different plan. 

Champhai Operation: 11th Dec 2004

During 2004, Capt Sanjay Arya was on deputation to the 25 Assam Rifles battalion, which was deployed in Mizoram. The battalion’s Area of Responsibility (AOR) spanned the Mizoram-Myanmar international border, a region frequently affected by insurgent activity. Given the presence of multiple active militant groups, the troops under Capt Arya’s command had to maintain an exceptionally high level of vigilance and be prepared to undertake operations at a moment’s notice. On 11th December 2004, based on intelligence inputs regarding insurgent activity in Vaphai hamlet of Champhai district, Capt Sanjay Arya led a combing operation to neutralize the threat. The group of militants operating in the area was part of a conglomerate of 11 organizations that posed a significant threat to the sovereignty of India’s eastern frontiers.

During the ensuing encounter along the Indo-Myanmar border, Capt Arya displayed exceptional courage and tactical acumen. He successfully engaged the militants, eliminating one insurgent and forcing the group to retreat towards the Myanmar side of the border. Despite the tactical success, the militants managed to carry their dead and injured across the border, thereby evading the full extent of his troops’ firepower. Capt Sanjay Arya was known not only for his professional competence but also for his unwavering concern for the safety of his troops. In this operation, he prioritized their well-being above his own, ultimately sacrificing his life in the line of duty. His bravery, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the nation were duly recognized with the conferment of the prestigious Sena Medal for gallantry — his second Sena Medal, a rare honour that reflected his exceptional courage and steadfast commitment to duty. 

Capt Sanjay Arya’s wife, Smt Shyamali, later followed in the footsteps of her husband and joined the Army in the year 2005. Capt Sanjay Arya is survived by his wife, Lt Col Shyamali, and daughter, Ms Ruchika.

• The Higher Secondary School at Kilhotran in Doda district (Jammu & Kashmir) has been renamed as “Captain Sanjay Arya Memorial Higher Secondary School” in honour of his supreme sacrifice and exemplary service to the nation.