Havildar Jaipal Singh SC

Havildar Jaipal Singh hailed from Haridwar district in Uttarakhand, a region known for its rich heritage and contribution to the armed forces. Born to Shri Bhopal Singh and Smt Savitri Devi, he grew up in a family that instilled in him the values of discipline, courage, and patriotism. From a young age, he harboured a deep desire to serve the nation and was determined to don the olive-green uniform of the Indian Army. His unwavering ambition and dedication ultimately led him to join the Indian Army after completing his school education. Havildar Jaipal Singh was recruited into the 17 Garhwal Rifles battalion of the Garhwal Rifles Regiment, an infantry unit renowned for its brave soldiers and illustrious history of gallantry. The Garhwal Rifles, known for their battle-hardened warriors and unwavering resolve, had been a part of numerous military campaigns, earning several battle honours over the decades. During his early years of service, Hav Jaipal Singh displayed exceptional discipline, and combat skills, quickly earning the admiration of his peers and superiors. His commitment to duty and natural ability to inspire those around him made him a respected soldier within his battalion.

After serving for a few years, Havildar Jaipal Singh married Ms. Vidyawati Devi. As the insurgency in Jammu & Kashmir escalated, the Indian Army required experienced and battle-ready soldiers for counter-insurgency operations. Owing to his proven track record and expertise, Havildar Jaipal Singh was later deputed to serve with the 14 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) battalion, a specialized force engaged in high-risk anti-terror operations in the volatile region of J&K. The Rashtriya Rifles (RR), known for its relentless counter-terrorism efforts, played a crucial role in neutralizing militant threats and ensuring the safety of civilians. Being a part of such a demanding unit required tactical acumen, fearlessness, and unwavering determination, qualities that Havildar Jaipal Singh embodied. 

Op Parakram (Pulwama Operation (J&K)) : 13 Apr 2002

During 2002, Havildar Jaipal Singh was serving with 14 Rashtriya Rifles (RR), a unit deployed in the Aithmul area of Pulwama district, Jammu and Kashmir. At the time, Pulwama was a hotbed of militancy, witnessing frequent clashes between security forces and terrorist groups. It remained one of the most volatile and strategically sensitive regions in the conflict-ridden state. On April 13, 2002, intelligence reports indicated the presence of terrorists holed up in a house in village Aithmul. Acting on this information, the security forces launched a cordon and search operation to flush out the militants. Havildar Jaipal Singh, known for his bravery and tactical acumen, was an integral part of the Commanding Officer’s Quick Reaction Team (QRT) tasked with neutralizing the threat.

At approximately 1715 hours, as security forces tightened the cordon around the targeted house, a group of terrorists attempted to break out. In a desperate bid to escape, they opened indiscriminate fire on the cordon party, triggering a fierce gunfight. The officiating Commanding Officer, along with his Quick Reaction Team, immediately moved in to reinforce the security perimeter. Havildar Jaipal Singh, displaying exceptional battlefield awareness and leadership, quickly deployed his team to secure key positions, ensuring the terrorists remained trapped inside. As the operation progressed, it became evident that the heavily armed militants were determined to resist. Assessing the situation, Havildar Jaipal Singh, along with an officer, advanced towards the terrorist hideout to gain a tactical advantage. As daylight began to fade, both soldiers took cover and crawled forward, carefully maneuvering to close in on the enemy.

Sensing the imminent threat, the terrorists retaliated fiercely, launching grenades toward the advancing troops. One of these explosions severely injured the officer accompanying Havildar Jaipal Singh. Despite the intense exchange of fire, Havildar Jaipal Singh displayed extraordinary courage and selflessness. Braving enemy fire, he rushed to the officer’s aid, dragged him to safety, and ensured he received medical attention. Undeterred by the dangers, he immediately repositioned himself and launched a daring counterattack. Charging towards the terrorists with remarkable aggression, he gunned down two militants on the spot, significantly weakening the enemy’s resistance. However, even as he engaged the remaining terrorist, he was targeted by another grenade attack, leaving him grievously wounded. Despite his injuries, Havildar Jaipal Singh continued fighting with unwavering determination, holding his ground and preventing the terrorist from escaping. His selfless valour bought crucial time for his comrades to secure the area and eliminate the remaining threat. Havildar Jaipal Singh was eventually evacuated for medical assistance, but succumbed to his injuries, making the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. Havildar Jaipal Singh was given the gallantry award, “Shaurya Chakra” for his exemplary courage, fighting spirit, and supreme sacrifice.

Havildar Jaipal Singh is survived by his wife Smt Vidyawati Devi.

The citation for the “Shaurya Chakra” awarded to him reads:

On 13 April 2002, cordon and search operation in village Aithmul in Jammu and Kashmir was launched to flush out terrorists hiding in a house in which Havildar Jaipal Singh was a part of the Commanding Officer's Quick Reaction Team. At 1715 hours while the house was being cordoned terrorists moving out of the house fired indiscriminately on the cordon party. Officiating Commanding Officer alongwith his Quick Reaction Team reached the house and Havildar Jaipal Singh deployed his party. Havildar Jaipal Singh alongwith an officer moved to a place where terrorists were hiding. At last light the officer and Havildar Jaipal Singh taking cover started crawling towards the terrorists. However terrorists fired grenades injuring the officer.

Havildar Jaipal Singh extricated the officer to safety and from a flank charged at terrorists killing two on the spot. However, a third terrorist fired grenades at Havildar Jaipal Singh, injuring him. Unmindful of his injury he engaged the terrorist till he was taken to safety and later succumbed to his injury. Havildar Jaipal Singh exhibited gallantry, resolute determination, indomitable courage and made the supreme sacrifice in fighting the terrorists.