During April 1998, Lance Naik Prahalad Singh Gurjar was serving with 6 Para Battalion of the Parachute Regiment, which was deployed in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir for counter-insurgency operations. The unit was operating in an area severely affected by militancy and was regularly engaged in operations against well-armed terrorist groups. On the night of 14/15 April 1998, based on credible intelligence inputs regarding the presence of heavily armed terrorists, troops of 13 Punjab launched a cordon and search operation in Ahgam village in Pulwama district. The objective was to isolate and neutralize the terrorists who were hiding in residential houses and posed a serious threat to both security forces and civilians. As the cordon was being established, the terrorists opened intense and indiscriminate fire from fortified positions within the village. The situation quickly escalated into a fierce and prolonged firefight. During the exchange, the Indian Army suffered heavy casualties, including the loss of Brigadier Ramesh Dixit, Commanding Officer of 81 Mountain Brigade, highlighting the gravity of the encounter and the strength of the terrorist resistance. With the situation becoming increasingly critical, a special assault team was inducted to break the stalemate and regain the initiative. Lance Naik Prahalad Singh Gurjar was a key member of this team. Fully aware of the risks involved, he led the assault from the front—an act that required exceptional courage, as it involved exposing oneself to enemy fire in order to locate and neutralize terrorist positions.
Displaying remarkable bravery and presence of mind, Lance Naik Prahalad Singh Gurjar advanced under heavy and continuous fire, skillfully navigating through the hostile environment. Despite sustaining serious injuries during the assault, he continued to press forward, ensuring that the momentum of the operation was not lost at a critical juncture. His fearless actions played a decisive role in enabling the assault team to close in on the terrorists. The operation ultimately resulted in the elimination of nine terrorists, significantly weakening militant activity in the area. However, the success came at a heavy cost. Lance Naik Prahalad Singh Gurjar later succumbed to his injuries, making the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. During the same operation, another brave soldier from his unit, 6 Para, Paratrooper Baldev Raj, also laid down his life for the nation. His conduct reflected exceptional bravery, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to duty. Lance Naik Gurjar’s leadership, courage, and indomitable spirit in the face of grave danger were instrumental in the success of the operation. By placing the mission and the safety of his comrades above his own life, he upheld the highest traditions of the Indian Army and left behind a legacy of valour and sacrifice. In recognition of his bravery of a very high order, he was awarded the Sena Medal.
Lance Naik Prahalad Singh Gurjar is survived by his wife Smt. Santra Devi.
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