Hav Shedge Laxman S SM

Havildar Shedge Laxman S hailed from Laxman Smruti village of Sawantwadi tehsil in Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, a family rooted in strong values of service and dedication. Inspired by a deep sense of patriotism and the desire to serve his nation, he joined the Indian Army after completing his school education. Enrolled into the 16 Maratha Light Infantry (16 MLI), a battalion of the prestigious Maratha Light Infantry Regiment, Hav Shedge Laxman S began a journey that would be marked by courage, honour, and dedication.

The Maratha Light Infantry is one of the oldest and most decorated regiments of the Indian Army, with a legacy dating back to the 18th century. Known for its valour, discipline, and battlefield tenacity, the regiment has earned numerous battle honors and accolades, both in India and abroad. Its soldiers, affectionately known as "Maratha Warriors," are revered for their indomitable spirit and resilience in the face of adversity. Hav Shedge Laxman S exemplified these qualities, becoming a proud torchbearer of the regiment’s traditions.

Over the years, Hav Shedge Laxman S honed his skills as a soldier, earning the respect and admiration of his peers and superiors alike. His dedication to duty and unflinching courage in challenging situations became hallmarks of his service. By 1993, he had established himself as a dependable and courageous soldier, ready to take on the most demanding tasks in the line of duty. In 1993, the 16 Maratha Light Infantry was deployed in the insurgency-affected region of Nagaland in India’s northeastern frontier. The area was plagued by insurgent activities, posing significant challenges to maintaining law and order. Hav Shedge Laxman S and his comrades were tasked with ensuring peace and stability, a mission fraught with danger and uncertainty.

Nagaland Operation: 20th Dec 1993

During 1993, Hav Shedge Laxman's unit was deployed in Nagaland  as part of "Operation Orchid" to counter the insurgency that had gripped the region. On December 20, 1993, Hav Shedge Laxman S was part of a convoy led by Colonel N Jayachandran Nair, traversing the strategically significant Mokokchung-Mariani Road. The convoy was ambushed by approximately 100 heavily armed insurgents, who launched a sudden and intense attack using automatic weapons. In the face of this deadly assault, Hav Shedge Laxman S displayed remarkable bravery and resilience. Despite being under relentless fire and heavily outnumbered, he fought valiantly alongside his comrades, engaging the attackers and defending the convoy with unyielding determination. His courage in the face of overwhelming odds inspired his fellow soldiers to hold their ground and retaliate fiercely.

Tragically, Hav Shedge Laxman S sustained fatal injuries during the ambush. He made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty, laying down his life for the safety and security of his comrades and the nation. The ambush claimed the lives of 13 other brave soldiers, including Col N Jayachandran Nair, Nb Sub Bhosale MS, Nk Nikam Balu S, L/Nk Chougule JR, L/Nk AG Jadhav, Sep Ramesh S Kakade, Sep Pabale Nitin M, Sep Jadhav Gorakh N, Sep Patil Mahadev R, Sep Kulkarni NP, Sep Surender, Sep Patil Subhash S, and Sep Deepak Galande. This tragic event underscored the immense sacrifices made by the Indian Army in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and security. Hav Shedge Laxman’s gallantry and ultimate sacrifice stand as a testament to his unwavering dedication and love for his country. Hav Shedge Laxman S was awarded the "Sena Medal" posthumously for his commendable gallantry, devotion to duty and supreme sacrifice.

Hav Shedge Laxman S is survived by his wife Smt Meenakshi.