Major Atul Garje SM

Major Atul Garje hailed from Nandur Nimba village in Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra. Born into a humble background, he displayed an early inclination towards discipline and patriotism. His initial schooling was in a local Marathi-medium school, but his aspirations for a career in the armed forces led him to Sainik School, Satara, a premier institution that nurtures future military leaders. It was here that the foundation of his military career was laid. Apart from excelling in academics, Major Garje proved his mettle in sports and leadership activities. His all-round excellence earned him the prestigious Governor’s Gold Medal, a recognition awarded to the best cadet of the school. His dedication and ambition propelled him to the National Defence Academy (NDA), a stepping stone for officers in the Indian Armed Forces. Upon successfully completing his training, he proceeded to the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, where he underwent rigorous military training before being commissioned as an officer.

Major Atul Garje was commissioned into 210  Rocket Regiment of the Regiment of Artillery, a crucial combat arm of the Indian Army responsible for firepower support. His commissioning in June 2003, was a moment of immense pride, as he became the first person from his village to achieve the honour of becoming an officer in the Indian Army. His dedication, leadership, and professionalism earned him immense respect among his peers and subordinates. After serving in the Artillery for a few years, Major Garje pursued his passion for aviation and earned his wings in 2007. He further underwent rigorous training and topped the 'Flying Instructor Course', achieving the distinction of becoming the youngest instructor pilot in 2010. His skills as a pilot and instructor were highly regarded, making him an invaluable asset to the Army Aviation Corps. In addition to his military duties, Major Atul Garje was an accomplished squash player and a passionate mountaineer, embodying the spirit of adventure and physical excellence. His commitment to his profession and personal interests reflected his relentless pursuit of excellence in every aspect of life.

Despite his demanding career, Major Garje was deeply devoted to his family. He married Ms Harshala, and in October 2010, the couple was blessed with a daughter Tanishka. Though he was a loving husband and father, his heart always belonged to the Indian Army. He often expressed his unwavering commitment to the service, saying, "Even if I die, my soul will come back to the Army." This powerful sentiment encapsulated his deep sense of duty, passion, and dedication to the nation. 

Exercise "Vayu Kaushal": 02 Feb 2011

During February 2011, Major Atul Garje’s unit was participating in the high-intensity war game exercise “Vayu Kaushal”, a critical military drill designed to test aerial combat readiness and operational efficiency. As part of the exercise, Major Atul Garje and his co-pilot Major Bhanu Chander were assigned an important air operation on February 2, 2011. Their task required precision, skill, and utmost professionalism. As per the mission plan, they took off from the Army Aviation Base in Nashik, piloting their helicopter as per the designated flight path. However, shortly after takeoff, they encountered an aircraft emergency over a densely populated built-up area, which left them with only a few seconds to react. The situation was dire—an uncontrolled crash could have resulted in significant civilian casualties and extensive damage to life and property.

Understanding the gravity of the situation, Maj Atul Garje and Maj Bhanu Chander displayed exceptional presence of mind and piloting skills. Instead of attempting a forced landing in the built-up area, which could have led to massive collateral damage, they made the brave decision to maneuver the aircraft away from civilian habitation. This daring choice, made in a fraction of a second, demonstrated their unwavering commitment to protecting innocent lives, even at the cost of their own safety. Despite their best efforts, the emergency situation deteriorated rapidly. In the process of recovery, the helicopter lost altitude and crash-landed. The impact was severe, and both officers sustained grievous injuries. Tragically, Maj Atul Garje and Maj Bhanu Chander succumbed to their wounds, making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The courageous and selfless actions of Maj Atul Garje and Maj Bhanu Chander not only saved numerous civilian lives but also prevented a major catastrophe. Their quick decision-making and flying expertise ensured that no loss of civilian life or property occurred despite the critical nature of the emergency. For his exceptional courage, professionalism, and supreme sacrifice, Maj Atul Garje was posthumously awarded the gallantry award “Sena Medal”. This recognition was a testament to his unwavering dedication to duty and his willingness to put the nation’s safety above his own life.

Maj Atul Garje is survived by his wife Smt Harshala Garje, and daughter Ms Tanishka. 

Citation for the "Sena Medal" awarded to him reads :-

Major Atul Garje and Major Bhanu Chander as part of an Exercise were carrying out flying operation to rehearse Indian Army war plans.  On 02 February 2011 at about 0848 hours, soon after take off from Army Aviation Base, Nasik, the pilots experienced an aircraft emergency over a built-up area, necessitating an immediate force landing. With exceptional flying skills, following the highest traditions of the Indian Army and selflessness, with utter disregard to their own safety, they manoeuvred the helicopter away from civilian habitat and ensured no loss to civilian life and property. In the process of recovery, the helicopter impacted the ground and crash landed which resulted in the loss of their lives.  Unmindful of their personal safety, the officers have displayed indomitable spirit, boundless courage and exceptional degree of professionalism by their valiant act of selflessness in the duty to the nation.

• Major Atul Garje's batchmates have come together to fund and sponsor a state-of-the-art conference hall at his school, dedicated in his honour. This initiative stands as a tribute to his legacy, ensuring that his name continues to inspire future generations.