Lance Naik Yogesh Kumar

Lance Naik Yogesh Kumar was born on 14 July 1981 in Alampur village of Aligarh district, Uttar Pradesh, to Shri Sitaram Sharma and Smt Gayatri Devi. He grew up in a close-knit family along with his younger brother, Anil Kumar. His parents played a pivotal role in shaping his character, nurturing in him a strong sense of responsibility, perseverance, and love for the nation. He received his schooling in his native region and completed his Class XII education from K.L. Jain Inter College, Sasni, in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh. Inspired by the ideals of patriotism and service to the motherland, he nurtured the dream of joining the Armed Forces from a young age. Determined to contribute to the defence of the country, he worked hard to turn his dream into reality and prepared himself mentally and physically for a career in the Indian Army. His dream became a reality on 14 July 1998, when, at the age of 17, he was recruited into the Indian Army. He was inducted into the 17 Mahar Battalion of the prestigious Mahar Regiment. Raised in 1941, the Mahar Regiment has earned a distinguished reputation for its courage, discipline, and exemplary service to the nation.

Being a part of such a renowned regiment was a matter of great pride for the young soldier. After completing his rigorous military training, he quickly adapted to the demanding life of a soldier. Over the years, he earned the respect of his superiors and fellow soldiers through his professionalism, reliability, and dedication to service. Alongside his military career, he also embarked on a fulfilling family life. After a few years of service, he married Ms Uma, who became a constant source of strength and support throughout his journey. The couple was blessed with two daughters, Sakshi and Aprachi, who brought immense joy to their lives. By 2010, he had completed more than twelve years of distinguished service in the Indian Army. In recognition of his dedication, hard work, and exemplary conduct, he was promoted to the rank of Lance Naik. By then, he had matured into a seasoned soldier who embodied the finest traditions of the Indian Army and the Mahar Regiment, earning admiration for his commitment to duty and devotion to the nation.

Operation Rakshak (J&K): 18 May 2010

During 2010, Lance Naik Yogesh Kumar was serving with the 17 Mahar Battalion, which was deployed in the Poonch sector of Jammu & Kashmir, a region that remained highly sensitive due to frequent infiltration attempts and militant activities along the Line of Control (LoC). The battalion was actively engaged in counter-insurgency operations under 'Operation Rakshak', the Indian Army's long-running mission to combat terrorism and maintain peace in the region. On 18 May 2010, intelligence agencies received credible information regarding a possible infiltration attempt by heavily armed terrorists from across the border into Indian territory. In view of the threat, security forces operating in the Rajauri-Poonch sector were placed on heightened alert. Acting upon specific intelligence inputs, troops launched a search-and-cordon operation in a suspected infiltration route within their Area of Responsibility (AOR). Lance Naik Yogesh Kumar was among the soldiers tasked with tracking down and intercepting the infiltrators before they could penetrate deeper into the hinterland. As the search operation progressed through the difficult and densely forested terrain, the security forces established contact with the terrorists. Realizing that they had been detected, the militants opened heavy and indiscriminate fire in an attempt to break the cordon and escape. The sudden exchange of fire led to a fierce encounter, testing the courage and resolve of the soldiers on the ground.

As the terrorists found themselves trapped by the security forces, they intensified their firing in a desperate attempt to break the cordon. Amid the fierce exchange of fire, Lance Naik Yogesh Kumar displayed exceptional courage and determination. Undeterred by the grave danger to his own life, he continued to engage the militants effectively and provided crucial support to his fellow soldiers. During the intense firefight, Lance Naik Yogesh Kumar sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was critically injured. Despite his severe injuries, he remained steadfast in the execution of his duty, fighting valiantly until he eventually collapsed on the battlefield. He was immediately evacuated for medical treatment, but despite the best efforts of the medical team, he succumbed to his injuries. Lance Naik Atul Singh also made the supreme sacrifice during the same operation. In keeping with the highest traditions of the Indian Army, Lance Naik Yogesh Kumar laid down his life in the service of the nation while safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity. A courageous, dedicated, and highly professional soldier, he exemplified the finest values of military service through his unwavering commitment to duty, selfless devotion, and indomitable spirit. At the young age of 29 years, Lance Naik Yogesh Kumar made the supreme sacrifice for the nation, leaving behind a legacy of courage, patriotism, and selfless service that will continue to inspire generations to come.

Lance Naik Yogesh Kumar is survived by his wife Smt Uma Sharma, daughters Ms Sakshi Gaud and Ms Aprachi Gaud.