Service No : 3971557P

Place of birth : Samba Dist (HP)

Service : Army

Last Rank : Havildar

Unit : 7 Dogra

Arm/Regt : The Dogra Regiment

Operation : CI & IS Ops

Awards : Shaurya Chakra

Martyrdom : February 17, 1994

Hav Tara Chand SC

Havildar Tara Chand, a valiant son of India, hailed from the serene town of Samba in Jammu and Kashmir. Born to Shri Raj Singh and Smt. Chano Devi, he was brought up in a humble yet value-rich environment that instilled in him the virtues of discipline, resilience, honesty, and deep-rooted patriotism. From an early age, he displayed a strong sense of responsibility and an unwavering respect for the nation and its uniform—qualities that would later shape his life as a soldier. Driven by a profound desire to serve the motherland, Havildar Tara Chand joined the Indian Army and went on to serve with distinction in the 7th Battalion of the Dogra Regiment. The Dogra Regiment, one of the most decorated infantry regiments of the Indian Army, is renowned for its glorious legacy of courage, sacrifice, and battlefield excellence. Upholding this proud tradition, Havildar Tara Chand exemplified the finest qualities of a Dogra soldier through his conduct, commitment, and sense of duty.

 

Throughout his military service, he was known among his superiors and comrades for his steadfast professionalism, unwavering integrity, and strong moral character. He performed every responsibility entrusted to him with sincerity and dedication, earning the respect of his seniors and the admiration of his peers. His presence within the unit was marked by quiet leadership, reliability, and a deep concern for the welfare of those around him. Havildar Tara Chand’s life stands as a testament to selfless service and devotion to the nation, embodying the highest traditions of the Indian Army and leaving behind a legacy of honour and inspiration.

 

Baramulla Operation (J&K): 17 Feb 1994

 

In 1994, Hav Tara Chand's unit, the 7th Battalion of the Dogra Regiment, was deployed on the frontlines of counter-terrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir, a region then facing intense insurgency and widespread violence. Operating under extremely hostile and unpredictable conditions, the battalion bore the critical responsibility of protecting innocent civilians and safeguarding the sovereignty and integrity of the nation. On 17 February 1994, based on credible intelligence regarding the presence of armed militants in the villages of Budpura, Warapura, and Mula Bangil in Baramulla district, a cordon and search operation was launched to prevent militant movement and ensure civilian safety. At around 0800 hours, a search party led by Havildar Tara Chand, who was serving as the Officiating Platoon Commander, advanced towards the Southern Mohalla of Warapura. As the team moved forward, they suddenly came under heavy fire from a militant concealed inside a house. Demonstrating exceptional presence of mind and tactical acumen, Havildar Tara Chand immediately ordered his troops to take cover and skillfully positioned them to surround the house, effectively preventing the militants’ escape. Fully aware of the grave danger, he then moved forward himself to neutralize the threat. During this courageous advance, he sustained a gunshot wound to his right leg. Despite severe pain and heavy blood loss, Hav Tara Chand refused to withdraw, choosing instead to continue leading the operation.

 

With unwavering determination and extraordinary courage, Havildar Tara Chand closed in on the house and, in close-quarters combat, successfully eliminated the militant. Moments later, he noticed another militant armed with a Universal Machine Gun attempting to flee by jumping out of the rear window of the same house. Though already wounded, he pursued the fleeing terrorist and, displaying remarkable physical endurance and bravery, shot and neutralized him as well. Tragically, while still engaged in the operation, Havildar Tara Chand was targeted by a third militant hiding inside a neighbouring house. He was struck in the chest and sustained critical injuries. Despite the efforts of his comrades, the brave soldier succumbed to his wounds on the spot, attaining martyrdom in the line of duty. The Government of India posthumously awarded him the "Shaurya Chakra", one of the nation’s highest peacetime gallantry honours. 

 

Havildar Tara Chand is survived by his wife, Smt Raj Kumari.

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