Major Shantanu Nag SC

Major Shantanu Nag hailed from Kolkata in the state of West Bengal. From an early age, he displayed a strong sense of discipline and commitment, qualities that later shaped his path toward a career in the armed forces. After completing his schooling, he successfully qualified for admission to the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA), one of India’s premier institutions for training future officers of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. He subsequently joined the academy located at the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla, near Pune in Maharashtra. Although Major Nag spent a significant part of his formative years in London, in the United Kingdom, his connection to India remained strong. During this time abroad, he developed a deep sense of patriotism and a firm desire to serve his motherland. This aspiration motivated him to prepare diligently for the highly competitive NDA entrance examination, which he cleared successfully. His achievement reflected both his academic capability and his unwavering determination to join the Indian Armed Forces. After completing his initial training at the National Defence Academy, he proceeded to the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, where he underwent advanced military training specifically designed for future officers of the Indian Army. The training at IMA is known for its rigorous physical conditioning, tactical instruction, leadership development, and emphasis on military values such as courage, honour, and integrity. Major Nag successfully completed this demanding course and graduated from the academy as a Second Lieutenant in the Indian Army.

Upon commissioning, he was posted to the 2nd Battalion of the 1st Gorkha Rifles (2/1 GR), one of the oldest and most distinguished infantry regiments in the Indian Army. The regiment has earned a formidable reputation over the years for the bravery, resilience, and loyalty of its soldiers. Known for their exceptional discipline and unwavering fighting spirit, the Gorkhas have a long and proud history of distinguished service in numerous battles and military operations. Becoming part of such a renowned regiment was both an honour and a responsibility, and it placed Major Shantanu Nag among a lineage of soldiers celebrated for their courage and dedication to the nation. During his early years of service, he quickly developed and refined his field craft and leadership skills. Serving in various operational areas, he faced numerous challenging situations that tested both his courage and tactical acumen. These experiences helped him grow into a capable and confident officer, well respected by his men and superiors alike. After serving with his parent unit for several years, he was deputed in 1995 to the 3rd Battalion of the Rashtriya Rifles, a specialized counter-insurgency force of the Indian Army tasked with maintaining security and conducting operations in insurgency-affected regions. This assignment marked another important phase in his military career, exposing him to demanding operational environments and further strengthening his experience as a field commander.

Anantnag Operation: 12 Mar 1996

In March 1996, Major Shantanu Nag was serving with the 3rd Battalion of the Rashtriya Rifles (3 RR), which had been deployed in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, close to the Line of Control (LoC). The battalion was actively engaged in counter-insurgency operations, as its Area of Responsibility (AOR) was heavily affected by militant activity. On 11 March 1996, security forces received credible intelligence inputs regarding the presence of terrorists in the Ashapur village of Anantnag district. Based on this information, it was decided to launch a search-and-destroy operation in the suspected area under the leadership of Major Shantanu Nag. Accordingly, on 12 March 1996, Major Nag, along with his team, moved towards Ashapur village to conduct the operation. After reaching the suspected location, the troops carefully cordoned off the area to prevent the terrorists from escaping. As the search and cordon operation progressed, the militants who were hiding inside a house suddenly opened heavy fire on the troops. The unexpected and intense burst of firing injured several soldiers. Quickly assessing the situation, Major Shantanu Nag immediately ordered his men to evacuate the injured personnel to safety. While attempting to assist in the evacuation of two wounded soldiers, he himself was struck by enemy fire and sustained serious injuries. Despite being wounded, Major Nag remained determined to prevent the militants from escaping the cordon. Displaying exceptional courage and leadership, he rushed into the room alone to confront the terrorists.

As Major Nag entered the room, one of the terrorists fired at him. At that critical moment, his team member, Havildar Dhyan Singh, reacted swiftly and moved forward to shield his Company Commander. In doing so, he absorbed the burst of fire meant for Major Nag. The bullet pierced through his spine, and he collapsed immediately. Meanwhile, Major Shantanu Nag, having exhausted his ammunition, dropped his rifle and engaged the terrorists in hand-to-hand combat. During the fierce struggle, he was struck by another bullet and suffered severe injuries. Despite his extraordinary bravery and relentless determination, he eventually succumbed to his wounds and attained martyrdom. Major Shantanu Nag was a courageous soldier and an exemplary officer who displayed outstanding bravery, leadership, and devotion to duty in the face of grave danger. Major Shantanu Negi was given the gallantry award, "Shaurya Chakra", for his remarkable courage, camaraderie, devotion to duty, and supreme sacrifice. 

Major Shantanu Nag is survived by his wife, Smt Debarati Nag.