Captain Ayush Yadav

During 2017, Captain Ayush Yadav’s unit, 310 Field Regiment, was based at the Army garrison in Panzgam, located in the Kupwara district of Jammu & Kashmir, about 120 km from Srinagar. The Kupwara sector is considered one of the most sensitive infiltration routes along the Line of Control, particularly after the snow begins to melt and mountain passes reopen, making the region highly vulnerable to militant movement. Troops deployed in this area remained on constant alert, guarding vital installations and ensuring the safety of personnel residing within the garrison. In the early hours of 27 April 2017, at around 4:30 am, three heavily armed militants descended from the wooded mountains overlooking the garrison and stealthily approached the camp from the rear. After cutting through two layers of barbed wire fencing, they hurled grenades and opened indiscriminate fire in an attempt to breach the camp and target the living quarters. Alert sentries on duty noticed the suspicious movement while the militants were cutting the fence and immediately challenged them. Taken by surprise, the militants opened fire at the guards and attempted to rush towards the residential area where soldiers were housed.

Captain Ayush Yadav was awakened by the deafening sound of explosions and gunfire. Instantly sensing the gravity of the situation, he sprang into action, threw aside his blanket, picked up his AK-47, and rushed out towards the direction of firing. Assessing that the militants were attempting to advance towards the living quarters, he immediately engaged them. Displaying exceptional courage and presence of mind, Capt Ayush fired at the terrorists, determined to stop their advance and prevent casualties among his fellow soldiers. During the intense exchange of fire, Capt Ayush Yadav was struck by bullets and sustained serious injuries. Despite being grievously wounded, he continued to hold his ground and kept engaging the militants, refusing to fall back. His brave action stalled the attackers and prevented them from reaching the living quarters, thereby buying crucial time for the Quick Reaction Team to mobilize and effectively neutralize the threat. In doing so, he displayed extraordinary gallantry and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of grave danger. However, Captain Ayush Yadav later succumbed to his injuries and made the supreme sacrifice at the young age of 25. During the operation, two other brave soldiers—Subedar Bhoop Singh and Naik Bhoota Venkata Ramana—also laid down their lives in the line of duty. Captain Ayush Yadav was a valiant soldier and an officer par excellence who embodied courage, leadership, and selfless service. By placing the safety of his comrades above his own life, he upheld the highest traditions of the Indian Army.

Captain Ayush Yadav is survived by his father, Shri Arun Kant Yadav, and mother, Smt. Sarla Yadav and her sister Smt. Rupal Yadav, who continues to carry forward his legacy of honour and sacrifice.