Hav Daler Singh Bhou

Havildar Daler Singh Bhou was born on 17th January 1963 in Panjtut-Pallanwala village, located in the Khour block of the Akhnoor sector in Jammu district, Jammu and Kashmir. He was the son of Shri Baldev Singh Bhau and Smt Shanti Devi. Growing up in the scenic yet challenging environment of Jammu and Kashmir, Hav Daler Singh developed a deep sense of patriotism and a commitment to serving the nation from a young age. After completing his initial education, he chose to follow the path of service and joined the Indian Army, driven by a desire to protect his country. He was recruited into the prestigious 12th Battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JAK LI) Regiment, an esteemed unit known for its valour, discipline, and remarkable history of service. The Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry Regiment is one of the most distinguished regiments in the Indian Army, having earned a reputation for producing brave soldiers who have excelled in numerous military operations, especially along the difficult and volatile borders of Jammu and Kashmir.

The 12 JAK Light Infantry, to which Havildar Daler Singh Bhou was assigned, is renowned for its role in various conflicts, including major wars and ongoing border skirmishes. The regiment’s soldiers have consistently demonstrated immense courage and commitment in defending India’s borders, particularly in the challenging terrain of the Kashmir Valley. Hav Daler Singh, with his sharp military skills and indomitable spirit, became an integral part of the regiment, upholding its legacy of bravery and dedication. Havildar Daler Singh’s service was marked by his determination, courage, and unwavering loyalty to the nation. His contributions to the Indian Army’s mission in Jammu and Kashmir were invaluable, and he remains remembered for his sacrifices and the role he played in maintaining peace and security in one of the most sensitive regions of India. His life stands as a testament to the bravery and selflessness of the soldiers of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry, who have always been at the forefront in safeguarding the nation’s borders.

Battle of Point 4812 (Kargil War): 01 July 1999

During June-July 1999, Havildar Daler Singh Bhou’s unit, the 12th Battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JAK LI), was deployed in the Batalik sector of Ladakh as part of the Indian Army’s “Operation Vijay.” This operation was launched in response to the large-scale infiltration of Pakistani forces across the Line of Control (LOC) in Kashmir, particularly in the Mushkoh, Dras, Kaksar, and Batalik sectors. By early May 1999, Pakistani troops had intruded several kilometers into Indian territory, with their positions spanning from 4 to 8 kilometers across the LOC in each sector. These intrusions posed a grave threat, and the Indian Army was forced to engage in direct assault missions to evict the enemy forces. The Indian Army was under significant pressure, as artillery and airstrikes were not effective due to the enemy's well-entrenched positions, often hidden within natural rock formations and deep bunkers. As a result, Indian forces had no choice but to send soldiers on perilous, close-combat missions to take the enemy head-on. Havildar Daler Singh Bhou's unit was called upon for one such mission on the night of 30 June to 1 July 1999, with the critical objective of capturing Point 4812, a strategically important feature in the Batalik sector.

The mission was assigned to Captain Nongrum, who was tasked with leading the assault team, which included Hav Daler Singh Bhou and several other soldiers. The team was to approach the objective from the southeastern direction, where they had to make a difficult and stealthy ascent to reach the top of the feature. The terrain was treacherous, and the soldiers had to exercise extreme caution to avoid detection by the enemy forces. Once Havildar Daler Singh Bhou and his comrades reached the summit, they encountered fierce resistance from the entrenched enemy forces. The Pakistani soldiers had fortified their positions using natural boulders, and their defenses were so strong that even artillery fire could not dislodge them. The enemy unleashed heavy automatic fire, pinning down the assaulting soldiers for nearly two hours. Despite this, Hav Daler Singh Bhou and his team, under the leadership of Captain Nongrum, were determined to press forward and achieve their objective.

Realizing that the situation called for decisive action, Captain Nongrum took the bold step of charging through the fire zone. Leading from the front, he threw grenades at the enemy bunker, causing considerable disruption and momentarily stunning the enemy. This daring move provided a window of opportunity for Havildar Daler Singh Bhou and the other soldiers to close in on the enemy positions and initiate a final assault. The soldiers fought valiantly, and after intense hand-to-hand combat, they were able to clear the positions, allowing them to secure Point 4812. However, during the heavy exchange of fire, Havildar Daler Singh Bhou was severely injured. Despite his bravery and resilience, he succumbed to his injuries. Tragically, Clifford Nongrum, Havildar Abdul Kareem, Havildar Daler Singh Bhou, Naik C.P. Dahal, Naik Surjeet Singh, Lance Havildar Yougal Kishor, Rifleman Mohd Fareed, and Rifleman Rattan Chand. Lance Naik Mohd Aslam, who was critically injured, succumbed to his wounds on July 3rd.

Havildar Daler Singh Bhou’s actions exemplify the ultimate spirit of sacrifice and valour. At the age of 36, he gave his life in service to the nation, contributing significantly to the success of Operation Vijay. His bravery, along with the selfless dedication of his comrades, played a crucial role in turning the tide in the Batalik sector and securing a vital victory in the Kargil War. Havildar Daler Singh Bhou’s sacrifice will forever be remembered as a testament to the courage and resolve of the soldiers who defend India’s sovereignty.

Havildar Daler Singh Bhou is survived by his wife Smt Sharada Devi.