Captain Ramesh Chander

Captain Ramesh Chander Rayudu hailed from Kadapa district in Andhra Pradesh. He was the proud son of Shri PH Rayudu. From a young age, Capt Ramesh Chander displayed a deep sense of patriotism and was greatly inspired by the valour and discipline of the Indian Armed Forces. This early fascination eventually turned into a determined aspiration to serve the nation in uniform. Driven by this strong desire, he worked hard during his school years and earned a place at the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA), a premier institution that trains young cadets for leadership roles in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

After completing his rigorous training at the NDA, he proceeded to the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun for advanced military education and leadership training. At the IMA, he honed his skills in military tactics, fieldcraft, and leadership, preparing himself for the responsibilities of an officer in the Indian Army.  He was commissioned as a Lieutenant into the 14th Battalion of the Rajput Regiment, one of the oldest and most highly decorated infantry regiments of the Indian Army. The Rajput Regiment is known for producing fearless and battle-hardened soldiers who have earned glory in numerous operations and wars. As a young officer, he quickly adapted to the life of active service and operational challenges. His leadership qualities, commitment to duty, and personal courage marked him as a promising officer in the regiment.

Kupwara Operation (J&K) : 01 May 2000

In 2000, Capt Ramesh Chander’s unit, the 14 Rajput, was deployed in the Kupwara district of Jammu & Kashmir, a region known for frequent militant activity and volatile security conditions. The unit was tasked with manning forward posts along the Line of Control (LoC), an area that had long been a hotspot for infiltration attempts by heavily armed militants. The rugged mountainous terrain, dense forests, and treacherous weather conditions made the task of securing the region extremely challenging. The area under their jurisdiction was often subjected to infiltration attempts and militant attacks, necessitating constant vigilance and proactive counter-insurgency operations. Being a dedicated officer, Capt Ramesh Chander took on the responsibility of leading his troops with unwavering commitment. Under his command, the unit conducted numerous reconnaissance and search operations, preempting enemy movements and thwarting infiltration attempts. 

On May 01, 2000, a significant encounter took place when militants launched a well-planned attack on Indian forward posts. Displaying exemplary courage and tactical brilliance, Capt Ramesh Chander led his men in a swift counter-insurgency operation, charging fearlessly towards the enemy. Engaging in fierce combat, he fought valiantly, coordinating his troops effectively and ensuring minimal casualties on the Indian side. However, amidst the heavy exchange of gunfire, Capt Ramesh Chander sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Despite receiving immediate medical aid, Capt Ramesh Chander succumbed to his injuries, making the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. 

Captain Ramesh Chander Rayudu is survived by his father Shri PH Rayudu.