Maj Yashen Ramesh Acharya SM

Maj Yashen Ramesh Acharya SM hailed from Mumbai in Maharashtra and was born on 3rd Sep 1967.  Son of Sri Ramesh Acharya and Smt Grace, Maj Yashen completed his schooling from St Dominic Savio High School. He later graduated from Bhavan’s College in Andheri, Mumbai. Known to be a well-mannered and intelligent boy since his childhood, Maj Yashen was determined to serve the country as an Army officer. He was a keen sportsman and excelled in sports during his student days in school and college.

After graduation he pursued his dream of joining the Armed Forces and cleared the combined defense services examination. He joined the Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) and was commissioned as an officer in 1992. He was commissioned into 6 Rajput of the famed Rajput Regiment, a Regiment known for its intrepid soldiers and numerous battle exploits. By 2003, Maj Yashen had put in about 11 years of service and evolved into a committed soldier and a fine officer. During 1997-98 Maj Yashen served in Siachen Glacier and also had a stint on the eastern border in Arunachal Pradesh.

Maj Yashen was a tough soldier and loved the adventurous life of the Army. He thus volunteered to be a commando and completed the commando training which arguably is one of the most grueling and toughest training courses in the Army. He also achieved the distinction of being selected as a Commando instructor at the prestigious Infantry School at Belgaum. Maj Yashen got married to Jaitri and the couple had a son, Ankit.

Pulwama Operation: 07 Feb 2003

During 2003, Maj Yashen’s unit was deployed in Pulwama district of J & K and was engaged in operations against the militants on a regular basis. On getting specific intelligence reports about the presence of militants in Pulwama district, Maj Yashen Ramesh Acharya’s unit was tasked to engage them on 07th Feb 2003. Maj Yashen was chosen to lead that mission and he immediately swung into action with his team. The team reached the suspected area and launched the search and cordon operation.

The troops soon made contact with the militants who fired at them on being challenged. Maj Yashen using his field-craft and commando skills deployed his troops tactically to effectively take on the militants. A fierce gun-battle ensued thereafter and during the heavy exchange of fire Maj Yashen got severely injured. He later succumbed to his injuries and was martyred. Maj Yashen led from the front during the operation thus setting a fine example of military leadership. Maj Yashen Ramesh Acharya was given the gallantry award, “Sena Medal” for his exemplary courage, unfaltering leadership and supreme sacrifice.

Maj Yashen Ramesh Acharya is survived by his wife Jaitri and son Ankit.