Major Ajay Upreti SM

Major Ajay Upreti hailed from the state of Gujarat, where he spent his early years filled with dreams of a life in the armed forces. He pursued his graduation in science (B.Sc) at DKV Science College, Jamnagar, where his passion for the uniform took shape. While at college, he joined the National Cadet Corps (NCC), seeing it as a gateway to realizing his dream of serving the nation. His commitment to discipline and leadership, honed through his NCC training, set him on a path toward a career in the Indian Armed Forces. In addition to his academic pursuits, Major Upreti was an avid sportsman, displaying exceptional talent in table tennis. His competitive spirit and determination on the sports field were evident as he collected numerous accolades during his student days. This blend of academic and athletic excellence demonstrated his well-rounded personality, driven by a passion for both physical fitness and intellectual growth.

The fascination with army life began for Major Upreti in childhood, and this fascination soon transformed into a strong, unyielding desire to serve his country. Determined to follow this path, he appeared for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination, a highly competitive entry test for aspiring military officers in India. Upon successfully clearing the examination, he was selected for training at the prestigious Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun. At the IMA, Major Upreti underwent rigorous training that tested his physical and mental endurance. He displayed a strong aptitude for leadership, discipline, and tactical thinking, qualities that would become hallmarks of his military career. After passing out from the academy, he was commissioned into the 8 Bihar Battalion of the Bihar Regiment, one of the oldest and most decorated infantry regiments of the Indian Army, renowned for its fearless soldiers and rich history of gallantry.

Upon joining his unit, Major Upreti quickly adapted to the demands of military life, immersing himself in the nuances of field craft and tactical operations. He developed a reputation as a capable and dependable officer, respected by both his peers and subordinates. His leadership skills, combined with his sharp tactical acumen, saw him evolve into a fine officer known for his commendable soldierly qualities. Major Upreti's dedication to service was evident in his continuous pursuit of excellence. He participated in various field operations and training exercises, gaining valuable experience and showcasing his capability in high-pressure environments. His commitment to his duties, coupled with his natural leadership abilities, led to steady progress in his career.

While Major Upreti's life was deeply intertwined with his military service, he also found time for personal happiness. He married Ms. Ronibala, who became his steadfast partner, supporting him through the highs and lows of military life. The couple was blessed with a son, Vasu, who brought immense joy and pride to the family. Despite the demands of his profession, Major Upreti remained a devoted husband and father, balancing his responsibilities with care and dedication. By 2008, after over a decade of distinguished service, Major Ajay Upreti had risen through the ranks to become a Major. This promotion was a recognition of his extensive field experience, exemplary conduct, and outstanding performance. 

Gurez Sector Avalanche: 17 Nov 2008

During 2008, Major Ajay Upreti was serving with 8^th Battalion of the Bihar Regiment deployed in J & K.  The unit was deployed in Gurez Sector along the LOC and had to face extreme weather conditions specially during winter months. This region, notorious for its harsh terrain and extreme weather, presented formidable challenges, especially during the winter months. Temperatures would plummet, and the area would be blanketed by heavy snowfall, making even routine operations arduous and dangerous. The soldiers of the 8 Bihar Battalion were tasked with defending the LOC and maintaining surveillance over a strategic area prone to infiltration. They manned various forward posts, often operating in sub-zero temperatures. The troops had to undertake patrols between these posts to ensure the security of the sector, especially against potential threats from enemy forces. However, the unforgiving weather and unpredictable conditions added to the dangers they faced. Frequent heavy snowfall blocked roads, disrupted supply lines, and increased the risk of avalanches, a common and deadly hazard in the Gurez Sector.

On 16 November 2008, an 'Area Domination Patrol' from the battalion was assigned a crucial task to traverse a planned route in the snow-covered terrain. The patrol aimed to monitor and secure the area between the forward posts, a standard procedure to prevent any enemy movement and ensure the safety of the sector. However, as the patrol progressed, a sudden and massive avalanche struck with devastating force. The sheer magnitude and unpredictability of the avalanche left the soldiers with no time to react or take evasive action. Trapped under tons of snow, several brave soldiers of the unit went missing, buried deep beneath the icy debris.

Upon receiving the distress call about the missing soldiers, Major Ajay Upreti was immediately tasked with organizing a search and rescue operation. Known for his exemplary leadership and deep sense of responsibility towards his troops, Major Upreti wasted no time. He swiftly assembled a rescue team, including the Ghatak Platoon Commander, Lieutenant Amit Beniwal, and led the mission himself. Despite the extremely hostile weather conditions, Major Upreti demonstrated complete disregard for his own safety, driven by his commitment to rescue his fellow soldiers. Time was of the essence, as survival chances in such situations diminish rapidly due to the severe cold and lack of oxygen. The rescue team, equipped with whatever gear was available, braved the blizzard-like conditions, navigating the treacherous snow-covered slopes. Major Upreti’s determination and courage inspired his men as they pressed on with the challenging task, fully aware of the dangers that lay ahead.

Tragically, as the rescue operation was underway, a sudden snow mass engulfed them, burying Major Ajay Upreti, Lieutenant Amit Beniwal, and five other soldiers. The suddenness of the avalanche left them no time to escape, and despite their heroic efforts, they too were trapped under the tons of snow. The brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice alongside Major Upreti included Lt Amit Beniwal, Nk Kishore Dung, Nk Bhukan Oroan, Nk Amrit Lal Horo, L/Nk Saiba Baskey, and Sep Chandan Kumar Jha. In this tragic incident, Major Ajay Upreti displayed remarkable cold courage, comradeship, and leadership, epitomizing the selfless spirit of the Indian Army. He led from the front, embodying the ethos of "Service Before Self" and showing an unwavering commitment to his comrades. His actions reflected his deep sense of duty and the bond of brotherhood that defines the Indian Army.

For his commendable courage, outstanding leadership, and supreme sacrifice, Major Ajay Upreti was posthumously awarded the Sena Medal, a gallantry award that honours acts of exceptional bravery in the face of the enemy. The award recognized his selflessness and the high standard of soldierly conduct he upheld during the rescue operation, even at the cost of his own life. His sacrifice, alongside his fallen comrades, became a poignant reminder of the risks that soldiers face daily in the harsh and unforgiving terrains of the LOC.

Major Ajay Upreti is survived by his wife Smt Ronibala Upreti and son Shri Vasu Upreti.