Lance Naik Ramesh Singh KC

Lance Naik Ramesh Singh was born in Tarag village, situated in the Champawat district of Uttarakhand, into a humble and patriotic family. He was the son of Shri Soban Singh and Smt Devki Devi, who instilled in him values of discipline, integrity, and service to the nation. From a young age, he exhibited a strong sense of responsibility and a deep-seated patriotism, which ultimately shaped his aspiration to serve in the Indian Army. Determined to contribute to the defence of his country, L/Nk Ramesh Singh pursued his education diligently. Upon completing his schooling, he chose the path of military service and was recruited into the 4 Kumaon Battalion of the Kumaon Regiment.

The Kumaon Regiment is one of the most distinguished and battle-hardened infantry regiments of the Indian Army, known for its fearless soldiers and a legacy of bravery in various military operations. His enlistment in such a prestigious regiment marked the beginning of his journey as a dedicated soldier. After serving for several years with unwavering commitment and discipline, L/Nk Ramesh Singh got married to Ms Chani Devi, starting a new chapter in his personal life. By 1984, he had completed a significant period of service in the Army, demonstrating exceptional perseverance and loyalty. 

Operation Meghdoot: 13 Apr 1984

In 1984, Lance Naik Ramesh Singh was serving with 4 Kumaon, a battalion of the Kumaon Regiment, when it was deployed in the treacherous terrain of Siachen Glacier. The unit was stationed in this hostile region as part of Operation Meghdoot, a historic military operation launched on 13 April 1984. The objective of the operation was to seize and maintain control of the Siachen Glacier, the highest battlefield in the world. Operation Meghdoot was a preemptive strike by the Indian Army to thwart Pakistan’s Operation Ababeel, which aimed to occupy the same strategically significant territory. The mission was a resounding success, securing India’s dominance over the glacier. However, the operation did not conclude with the initial victory—tensions remained high, and intermittent clashes with enemy forces became a routine reality. Soldiers like Lance Naik Ramesh Singh not only had to endure the relentless cold, blizzards, and oxygen deprivation but also frequent unprovoked enemy.

On 13 Apr 1984, Lance Naik Ramesh Singh was assigned to a crucial mission—constructing a helipad in one of the forward locations in Jammu and Kashmir. The task was of immense strategic importance, as the helipad would facilitate the movement of troops, ensure a steady supply of essential provisions, and provide medical evacuation capabilities in the unforgiving Himalayan terrain. The construction site was at an extremely high altitude, where the oxygen levels were dangerously low, and the severe cold made even basic tasks arduous. Despite these harsh conditions, Lance Naik Ramesh Singh remained resolute in fulfilling his duty. As the mission progressed, he began exhibiting symptoms of hypoxia, a potentially fatal condition caused by oxygen deprivation at high altitudes. Hypoxia leads to dizziness, fatigue, and, in extreme cases, unconsciousness—yet, he refused to leave his post.

Unmindful of his deteriorating health, Lance Naik Ramesh Singh displayed extraordinary perseverance and continued working alongside his comrades. His unwavering commitment to completing the mission took precedence over his personal well-being. Unfortunately, the relentless exposure to extreme conditions took a severe toll on his body. His condition worsened rapidly, and despite all efforts to save him, he made the supreme sacrifice at his post, laying down his life in the line of duty. Through his exceptional courage, determination, and deep sense of responsibility, Lance Naik Ramesh Singh upheld the highest traditions of the Indian Army. In recognition of his extraordinary valour and supreme sacrifice, Lance Naik Ramesh Singh was posthumously awarded the Kirti Chakra, one of India's highest peacetime gallantry awards on 15 August 1984. 

Lance Naik Ramesh Singh is survived by his wife Smt Chani Devi.

The Citation for the "Kirti Chakra" awarded to him reads:

Lance Naik Ramesh Singh of Kumaon Regiment was a member of a group assigned to construct a helipad in one of the forward locations in J&K. Due to extremely high altitude, he was affected by Hypoxia. Unmindful of his personal safety Lance Naik Ramesh Singh refused to leave his place of duty till the completion of the task and eventually laid down his life at his post.

Lance Naik Ramesh Singh thus displayed exemplary courage, determination and devotion to duty of a high order.