Hav KE Ganapathy SM

Havildar KE Ganapathy was born on 21st May 1962 in Krishnagiri district of Tamil Nadu, to Shri Ellappan and Smt Kaliammal. He grew up in a humble and disciplined environment, alongside his three brothers and two sisters. Right from his early years, he was inspired to serve the nation in uniform and nurtured a strong desire to join the Armed Forces. After completing his school education, he fulfilled his dream by enlisting in the Indian Army on 7th September 1981, at the age of 19. He was inducted into the 21st Battalion of the Mechanized Infantry Regiment, a distinguished infantry regiment known for its valiant history, operational versatility, and numerous battle honours. Amidst his military commitments, he also built a loving family. He was married to Ms. Vijayalakshmi, and together they were blessed with a son, Naveen Kumar, and a daughter, Aadanya.

Over the years, Hav Ganapathy proved to be a dedicated and professional soldier. After serving diligently in his parent unit for a few years, he was deputed to serve with the Sector 8 Rashtriya Rifles (RR), a specialized counter-insurgency force deployed in Jammu and Kashmir. During his tenure with Sector 8 RR, he took part in numerous successful operations across the region, playing a key role in counter-insurgency missions and earning appreciation for his bravery and leadership. By the year 1996, Hav Ganapathy had completed nearly fifteen years of distinguished service in the Army. Through these years, he had grown into a seasoned, battle-hardened soldier and was promoted to the rank of Havildar in recognition of his dedication and commendable service.

Kupwara Sector-IED Blast: 12 Jun 1996

In June 1996, Havildar KE Ganapathy was serving with the Sector 8 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) battalion, which was deployed in the Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir—a region that was witnessing intense militant activity during that period. Sector 8 RR battalion was operating as part of the Counter Insurgency Force (CIF) (Kilo Force) under the operational control of XV Corps, also known as 'Chinar Corps', one of the operational Corps of the Indian Army based at Srinagar and looking after the military operations in Kashmir valley. The operational environment in the unit’s Area of Responsibility (AOR) was highly volatile, requiring the troops to maintain constant vigilance and remain prepared to respond to threats at a moment’s notice. Known for his commitment, courage, and operational acumen, Hav Ganapathy took on every assigned task with utmost diligence and a strong sense of duty. On 12 June 1996, he was entrusted with an important operational assignment that required him to travel by road to a location in the Kupwara district. He set out on the mission early in the morning, accompanied by a group of fellow soldiers.

However, as the team proceeded along the designated route, tragedy struck. The vehicle in which they were traveling came under attack by militants who had planted a powerful Improvised Explosive Device (IED) along the road. The IED was detonated as the vehicle passed, resulting in a massive explosion. The blast caused catastrophic damage to the vehicle and inflicted grievous injuries on Hav Ganapathy and several of his comrades. Despite suffering a severe head injury from the explosion, Hav Ganapathy, displaying extraordinary courage and presence of mind, prioritized the safety of his fellow soldiers over his own well-being. In the critical moments following the blast, he acted with superhuman resolve, helping evacuate his comrades and saving lives, even as he succumbed to his own injuries. For his exceptional bravery, selfless devotion to duty, and supreme sacrifice, Havildar KE Ganapathy was posthumously awarded the "Sena Medal", one of India’s distinguished gallantry awards.

Havildar K E Ganapathy is survived by his wife, Smt Vijayalakshmi Ganapathy, son, Dr. Naveen Kumar Ganapathy, and daughter, Smt Aadanya Ganapathy.