Lance Naik Rambeer Singh Tomar AC

Doda Operation: 18 Oct 2001

On 18 October 2001, Naik Rambeer Singh Tomar’s unit, 26 Rashtriya Rifles, received credible intelligence inputs about the presence of heavily armed terrorists hiding in a house in a village in Doda district, Jammu & Kashmir. The village lay within the battalion’s area of responsibility, and given the gravity of the threat, it was decided to launch a swift and well-coordinated operation to neutralize the terrorists before they could escape or inflict any damage on the local populace. Acting on the orders, an assault team was immediately formed to carry out the cordon-and-search mission. Naik Rambeer Singh, known for his courage and combat proficiency, was part of this assault group. With characteristic alertness and composure, he moved into position with his team to encircle the target house. As the cordon tightened, the terrorists, realizing they had been surrounded, opened indiscriminate fire on the troops from inside the building. The initial exchange of fire turned into a fierce gun battle, as the militants used the fortified structure for cover while continuing to fire relentlessly at the advancing soldiers.

While reorganizing his position, Naik Rambeer sensed movement and the presence of more terrorists in an adjacent room. Realizing that any delay could endanger the lives of his fellow soldiers, he once again chose to go ahead alone. In a daredevil act of gallantry, he stormed the adjoining room and came face-to-face with the hidden terrorist. During the ensuing exchange of fire, Naik Rambeer was struck in the eye by a bullet. Despite the excruciating pain and heavy bleeding, his resolve remained unshaken. Summoning his last reserves of strength, he hurled a grenade toward the terrorist’s position, killing the fourth militant before collapsing due to his injuries. Naik Rambeer Singh succumbed to his wounds, having single-handedly killed four terrorists and ensured the complete success of the operation. His fearless leadership, indomitable spirit, and supreme sacrifice became a shining example of a soldier’s devotion to duty and valor in the face of mortal danger. For his most conspicuous bravery, inspiring leadership, and unflinching courage in the highest traditions of the Indian Army, Naik Rambeer Singh Tomar was awarded the nation’s highest peacetime gallantry honour, the Ashok Chakra (Posthumous).

Naik Rambeer Singh Tomar is survived by his parents, wife and two sons.