Maj Ranjit Muthana

Maj Ranjit Muthana hailed from Madikeri taluk in the Coorg district of Karnataka, a region renowned for its proud martial tradition. Born on 29 July 1951, he completed his early education at Don Bosco School in Mumbai. From a young age, he aspired to serve the nation in uniform, and this dream continued to guide him through his formative years. With unwavering resolve, he prepared for a career in the Armed Forces and eventually secured admission into the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA) in Pune. He subsequently went to IMA Dehradun for further training. Upon completing his rigorous training, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant on 24 December 1972. He joined the illustrious Rajput Regiment—an infantry regiment known for exceptional bravery, a rich legacy of battle honours, and its inspiring motto, “Sarvatra Vijay”, meaning “Victory Everywhere.” The Regiment had participated in all major post–post-Independence wars and was later a prominent part of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) in Sri Lanka.

Over the course of his career, he displayed exceptional professionalism, discipline, and leadership. Serving with his unit, 5 Rajput, he held various assignments across the country, including Nagaland, Palampur, Suratgarh, Banbasa, and eventually Sri Lanka as part of the IPKF. His competence was recognized early, and as a young Captain, he earned the honour of serving as an Instructor at the NDA, shaping and mentoring future military leaders. Amidst his demanding service commitments, Maj Muthana also built a life of personal fulfilment and companionship. On 12 November 1978, he married Ms Geetha Aiyappa, marking the beginning of a new chapter alongside his dedicated service to the nation. Continuing his upward trajectory, he later attended the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC) at Wellington—one of the most prestigious military leadership institutions. Upon successful completion, he was appointed Brigade Major of 167 Infantry Brigade, a role he served in with distinction from 1985 to 1987. 

Operation Pawan: 02 Dec 1987

The Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) launched its first major offensive on 9 October 1987 after finalizing a multi-pronged operational strategy against the LTTE. The operation, code-named “Op Pawan,” aimed to dismantle the LTTE’s capability in and around Jaffna by targeting its command structure, logistics, and strongholds. A key objective of the plan was the neutralization or capture of the top LTTE leadership, which was expected to render the militant organization directionless and vulnerable to subsequent ground assaults. As part of these operations, the IPKF launched an attack on Jaffna University on 12 October 1987 involving troops from 13 Sikh Light Infantry, 4/5 Gorkha Rifles, and 10 Para. This assault marked a turning point in the operation and resulted in the complete breakdown of relations with the LTTE. Instead of honouring the earlier agreement that required militants to surrender weapons following the induction of Indian forces in August 1987, the LTTE reneged and began a violent offensive against Indian soldiers. By December 1987, the IPKF had secured control over key portions of Jaffna, but scattered resistance, ambushes, and fierce firefights continued across the region. The terrain, combined with the guerrilla-style tactics of the LTTE, made the mission extremely challenging. It was during this turbulent operational phase that Maj Ranjit Muthana displayed extraordinary courage.

On 2 December 1987, despite knowing the risks and the increasing hostility from the LTTE, he volunteered to undertake convoy protection duty beyond his designated area of responsibility. As the column commander of the foot escort accompanying the convoy on the Batticaloa–Colombo route, his task was critical to ensuring the safe passage of men and material. During the movement, intelligence indicated the presence of a hidden consignment of weapons, prompting Maj Muthana and his troops to proceed toward the suspected location. Unbeknownst to them, the group had moved into a well-concealed LTTE hideout. As they advanced, heavily armed militants opened fire from fortified and elevated positions. Taken under sudden and intense fire, the soldiers found themselves surrounded, with the enemy dominating the engagement from multiple directions.

Displaying exemplary presence of mind and leadership, Maj Muthana immediately swung into action. Using his experience and battlefield acumen, he regrouped and directed his troops to retaliate effectively. Despite being vastly outnumbered and facing automatic fire from vantage positions, he continued to inspire and lead from the front. A fierce exchange of fire followed as the troops fought back with determination and courage. In the midst of the battle, Maj Muthana was struck by a direct burst from a medium machine gun that pierced his helmet. He succumbed to his injuries on the battlefield. However, his gallant stand compelled the militants to withdraw and abandon their positions, demonstrating the impact of his leadership and resolve even in the face of overwhelming odds. Maj Ranjit Muthana’s actions were in the finest traditions of the Indian Army—marked by selflessness, courage, and unwavering duty. He made the supreme sacrifice while serving the nation in hostile foreign territory, upholding the honour of his regiment and country.

Maj Ranjit Muthana is survived by his wife, Smt Geetha Muthana.