Gunner Subash Chander Ram

Gunner Subhash Chander Ram, a native of Mawari village in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, harbored a deep-seated aspiration to serve in the Indian Armed Forces from a young age. Growing up, he was deeply inspired by the tales of valor and sacrifice of Indian soldiers, which fueled his unwavering dream of donning the olive-green uniform. Like many in his community, he admired the discipline, courage, and patriotism that came with military service. His determination never wavered, and with relentless perseverance, he pursued his goal of contributing to the nation’s defense. His dedication eventually led him to join the Indian Army, where he was recruited into the 312 Field Regiment of the Regiment of Artillery—a unit known for its precision, firepower, and strategic importance on the battlefield.

The Regiment of Artillery, known as one of the Indian Army’s most formidable combat support arms, is celebrated for its expertise in field guns, howitzers, and heavy weaponry, playing a crucial role in both offensive and defensive operations. Gunner Subhash Chander Ram took great pride in being part of this elite force, where he trained rigorously in gunnery, firepower coordination, and tactical battlefield maneuvers. His training instilled in him a sense of duty, resilience, and the ability to remain composed in high-pressure combat scenarios.

Op Rhino : 23 Feb 1999

During 1999, Gunner Subhash Chander Ram had been deployed in the Nagaon District of Assam, an area affected by insurgent activities. His unit was actively engaged in counter-insurgency operations, supporting the 311 Mountain Brigade as part of Operation Rhino, a sustained military offensive aimed at neutralizing militant groups operating in the northeastern region. On the evening of 23rd February 1999, intelligence reports indicated that insurgents from the Karbi National Volunteers' Action Group were hiding in Jainkhan village. Major Mohan Gangadharan, the Post Commander at Shankarbasti Post, swiftly mobilized a Quick Reaction Team (QRT), including Gunner Subhash Chander Ram, to intercept and neutralize the threat. The unit moved with speed and stealth, cordoning off the village to prevent any escape routes for the militants As darkness enveloped the village, three armed militants mounted a desperate escape attempt on a motorbike, opening fire indiscriminately in an effort to break through the military cordon. The sudden hail of bullets forced the soldiers into immediate action. Gunner Subhash Chander Ram, alongside Major Mohan Gangadharan, swiftly retaliated, engaging the insurgents with precise and controlled fire.

In the intense exchange, Major Mohan shot and wounded Pratap, the self-styled Area Commander of the insurgent group, hitting him in the leg. Gunner Subhash Chander Ram played a critical role in providing covering fire, ensuring that his comrades could maintain their positions despite the enemy’s relentless gunfire. However, amidst the chaos, both Major Mohan and Gunner Subhash Chander Ram sustained multiple bullet wounds. Despite his injuries, Gunner Subhash Chander Ram refused to withdraw, standing firm in his defensive position to shield his comrades. His resilience and unwavering courage allowed Major Mohan to regroup and continue the firefight, ultimately eliminating Pratap and leading to the capture of the remaining militants. However, Gunner Subhash Chander Ram succumbed to his wounds, making the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.

Gunner Subhash Chander Ram is survived by his wife Smt Sama Devi.