Lance Naik Raj Kumar Mahto

Lance Naik Raj Kumar Mahto was born on 9th October 1974 in Masu, a small village near Ranchi, Jharkhand (then Bihar), into a humble farmer’s family. He was the second of five children born to Shri Babulal Mahto and Smt. Devmani Devi with one elder brother and three younger sisters. Two of his sisters were married off at a young age, as was common in those times. However, L/Nk Raj Kumar was different. He stood firmly against the practice of child marriage and ensured that his youngest sister continued her education. In a conservative village society where age-old traditions dictated family decisions, his stance was both bold and progressive. It reflected his deep sense of responsibility and courage to stand up for what was right — qualities that would later define his military service as well.

He completed his matriculation from Government High School, BIT Mesra, and pursued further studies at Ram Lakhan College, Ranchi. A natural sportsman, he excelled in athletics as a sprinter and was also an exceptional football player. Despite the demands of rural life — helping his family in the fields, tending to cattle, and cycling 25 kilometres to college every day — he never lost sight of his passion for sports. His determination and achievements made his village proud, and he earned admiration for his cheerful nature and helpful disposition. In 1994, at the age of 20, he fulfilled his dream of serving the nation by joining the Indian Army. He was recruited into the 12 Jat Battalion of the Jat Regiment, an infantry regiment renowned for its gallant soldiers and rich legacy of battlefield glory. After completing his initial training, Sepoy Raj Kumar received his first posting at Binaguri. In 1997, he married Ms Jaya Prabha, belonging to the Kurmi Mahto community from Tatisilwai, near Ranchi. A year later, in 1998, he was posted to Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest and most challenging battlefield. His outstanding performance and physical endurance soon earned him selection for Commando Training with the National Security Guard (NSG) in 1999.

Upon completing this elite training, he joined the 52 Special Action Group (SAG) — the NSG’s specialized anti-hijacking and counter-terrorist unit — where he participated in numerous demanding operations. After serving three years with the NSG, he returned to his parent unit, 12 Jat, in 2002. Shortly thereafter, he was deputed to serve with the 5 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) in Jammu and Kashmir, taking part in counter-insurgency operations in one of the nation’s most challenging operational environments — continuing his journey of courage, service, and sacrifice.

Ganderbal Operation: 04 June 2004

In June 2004, Lance Naik Raj Kumar Mahto was serving with the 5 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) battalion deployed in the Ganderbal district of Jammu & Kashmir. The battalion was regularly engaged in counter-insurgency operations, as its Area of Responsibility (AOR) was heavily affected by militant activity. On 04 June 2004, the unit received credible intelligence about the presence of two hardcore militants hiding in the unit's AOR. Acting on this information, the unit decided to launch a cordon and search operation to neutralize them. L Nk Raj Kumar, known for his courage, physical endurance, and commando training, was chosen as part of the assault team led by the Company Commander. His skill, and composure under fire made him a key member of the operation, and he was deeply trusted by his superiors. The team reached the suspected area and swiftly cordoned it off to block all possible escape routes. Realizing that they were surrounded, the militants chose to stay and fight rather than surrender. It was decided that L Nk Raj Kumar would advance first towards the suspected hideout, with the Company Commander providing cover fire.

As the assault began, the militants had already taken up vantage positions and were waiting for an opportunity to engage. When L Nk Raj Kumar moved forward to take the position, the militants opened heavy fire with automatic weapons. In the intense exchange, he was hit by multiple bullets and collapsed to the ground. Displaying remarkable composure and teamwork under fire, the Company Commander and his comrades rushed forward to retrieve their fallen comrade, providing covering fire to suppress the militants. Taking advantage of the brief confusion, the militants managed to escape through the adjoining nallah. Given the critical situation, immediate arrangements were made to evacuate L Nk Raj Kumar. He was rushed towards the 92 Base Hospital, Srinagar, located about 25 kilometres away. Despite the best efforts of his comrades and medical assistance en route, L Nk Raj Kumar Mahto succumbed to his injuries before reaching the hospital, making the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. The following day, both militants were tracked down and eliminated in a follow-up operation by the battalion. At just 29 years of age, Lance Naik Raj Kumar Mahto exemplified the highest traditions of the Indian Army — courage, dedication, and selfless service to the nation.

Lance Naik Raj Kumar Mahto is survived by his wife Smt Jaya Prabha Mahto, two sons Shri Gaurav Mahto & Shri Ankit Mahto. 

• A bust of Lance Naik Raj Kumar Mahto has been erected at his village, Masu, in Jharkhand in his honour.
• A football tournament and marathon are organized every alternate year in the memory of Lance Naik Raj Kumar Mahto.