Major Deepak Kumar Padda SC

Major Deepak Kumar Padda hailed from Hoshiarpur district in Punjab and was born on 30 January 1976. He was the son of an Army veteran, Lieutenant Colonel Paras Ram, whose distinguished military career inspired Maj Deepak from an early age. Growing up in a disciplined and patriotic environment, he developed a deep admiration for the Armed Forces and nurtured a strong desire to serve the nation in uniform, following in his father's footsteps.After completing his schooling and higher education, Maj Deepak remained steadfast in his ambition to join the Indian Army. His dedication, determination, and commitment eventually bore fruit when he was commissioned into the Indian Army in the year 2000 at the age of 23. He was inducted into the 85 Armoured Regiment of the Armoured Corps, one of the Army's premier combat arms known for its powerful tanks, mechanized warfare capabilities, and decisive role on the battlefield. Following his commissioning, Major Deepak Kumar Padda underwent rigorous military training that equipped him with the professional skills, leadership qualities, and tactical acumen required of an Armoured Corps officer. Upon completion of his training, he joined his parent regiment and immersed himself in the demanding life of a frontline soldier. During the initial years of his service, he participated in various operational and training assignments, gaining valuable experience in handling armoured platforms and leading troops under challenging conditions.

Known for his professionalism, dedication, and calm demeanor, Major Padda quickly earned the respect of both his superiors and fellow officers. Alongside his military responsibilities, he also embarked on a new chapter in his personal life when he married Ms. Sonia. The couple was later blessed with a son, Ritviek, bringing immense joy to their family. Despite the demands of military service, he remained a devoted husband and father, balancing his professional duties with his family responsibilities. After serving with distinction in the 85 Armoured Regiment for nearly four years, Major Padda was selected for a cross-attachment with the 18 Grenadiers Battalion, which was deployed in the challenging operational environment of Jammu and Kashmir. Such attachments were aimed at providing officers from different arms and services exposure to counter-insurgency and infantry operations, thereby broadening their operational experience. His tenure with the 18 Grenadiers proved to be both demanding and enriching. Operating in the rugged terrain and volatile security environment of Jammu and Kashmir, he gained first-hand experience in counter-insurgency operations, area domination patrols, intelligence-based missions, and leadership in active operational conditions. By 2005, he had completed nearly five years of military service and had developed into a battle-hardened and highly capable officer. His experience in both conventional armoured warfare and counter-insurgency operations had equipped him with exceptional field-craft skills, tactical expertise, and the confidence required to lead soldiers in the most challenging circumstances. Throughout his career, Major Deepak Kumar Padda remained guided by the values of courage, duty, and selfless service. His unwavering commitment to the nation, coupled with his professional competence and inspiring leadership, made him a respected officer and a source of pride for his regiment, his family, and the Indian Army.

Kupwara operation: 25 May 2005

During 2005, Major Deepak Kumar Padda was serving with the 14 Grenadiers Battalion, deployed in the Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir. The battalion was actively engaged in counter-insurgency operations as its area of responsibility was heavily affected by militant activities. In addition to manning forward posts in the sensitive border region, the unit regularly conducted operations to thwart infiltration attempts by militants crossing over from across the Line of Control. The challenging operational environment demanded constant vigilance, courage, and leadership from officers and men alike. On 25 May 2005, acting on specific intelligence inputs regarding the presence of militants in Rangawar village of Kupwara district, the battalion launched a search-and-cordon operation. Major Deepak Kumar Padda was part of the team entrusted with this critical mission. As planned, the troops swiftly moved into the area, established a cordon around the suspected location, and commenced a systematic search operation. After an extensive search, the troops finally established contact with the militants. On being challenged, the terrorists opened heavy fire in an attempt to break the cordon and escape. Major Padda, leading from the front, responded with determination and directed his men to engage the militants effectively. A fierce exchange of fire ensued as the security forces tightened their grip on the area.

During the encounter, one of the soldiers was seriously injured by militant fire. Realizing the grave danger faced by his comrades and determined to prevent the militants from gaining an advantage, Major Padda displayed exceptional courage and selflessness. Without regard for his own safety, he launched an aggressive assault on the militants to divert their attention and protect his men. His bold action disrupted the militants' plans and enabled his team to regain the initiative. The militants, taken aback by his fearless advance, concentrated their fire on him. Major Padda sustained severe gunshot injuries but refused to withdraw from the battle. Despite being critically wounded, he continued to engage the terrorists and succeeded in eliminating one militant. His extraordinary bravery and unwavering resolve inspired his comrades to continue the fight with renewed determination. Following the encounter, Major Padda was evacuated to a nearby military hospital for urgent medical treatment. As his condition remained critical, he was subsequently airlifted to Delhi for specialized medical care. Despite the best efforts of the medical teams and his own courageous struggle for survival, he succumbed to his injuries on 4 June 2005. Major Deepak Kumar Padda made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation at the young age of 29 years. His gallant actions during the operation reflected the highest traditions of the Indian Army and exemplified exceptional courage, leadership, and devotion to duty. In recognition of his conspicuous bravery, indomitable spirit, and selfless commitment to his comrades, he was posthumously awarded the prestigious gallantry award, the "Shaurya Chakra." Major Deepak Kumar Padda remains remembered as a valiant soldier, an inspiring leader, and a dedicated officer who placed the safety of his men and the security of the nation above his own life. His sacrifice continues to serve as a source of inspiration for future generations of soldiers and stands as a shining example of courage and patriotism in the service of India.

Major Deepak Kumar Padda is survived by his wife Smt Sonia and son Ritviek.

A school is beeing run by the name "Major Deepak Kumar Padda Government Senior Secondary School" at Daulatpur of  Pathankot in Punjab.