Major Ganesh Madappa was born on February 5, 1963, in Kodagu district of Karnataka, a region renowned for its rich martial traditions and its legacy of producing brave soldiers for the Indian Armed Forces. He was the son of Captain C. P. Madappa, an Indian Army veteran, and Smt Seethamma Madappa. Growing up in a household deeply rooted in military values, Major Ganesh was inspired by his father's service and developed a keen inclination toward joining the Armed Forces from an early age. His upbringing instilled in him the virtues of discipline, patriotism, and courage—qualities that would later define his distinguished career in the Indian Army. Driven by his passion and commitment to serve the nation, Major Ganesh pursued his dream and successfully earned a commission into the Indian Army. He was inducted into the 82 Armoured Regiment, a prestigious unit of the Armoured Corps, known for its formidable battle tanks and mechanized warfare capabilities. The Armoured Corps, often referred to as the "shock and awe" arm of the Army, plays a crucial role in modern warfare with its speed, firepower, and strategic dominance on the battlefield. Major Ganesh excelled in his role as an Armoured Corps officer, demonstrating outstanding leadership and tactical acumen.
After serving with distinction in his parent regiment for over a decade, Major Ganesh was deputed to serve with the 36 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) Battalion, a unit tasked with counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir. The Rashtriya Rifles, a specialized force of the Indian Army, is dedicated to tackling insurgency and maintaining peace in the conflict-prone region. As a seasoned officer, Major Ganesh took on this challenging assignment with unwavering determination, understanding the gravity of operating in one of the most volatile areas in the country. His deployment with 36 RR in Jammu and Kashmir placed him in the heart of high-risk counter-insurgency operations, where he was responsible for leading troops in difficult terrain under constant threat from insurgents. His experience in the Armoured Corps and years of military training enabled him to adapt quickly to the dynamic nature of counter-insurgency warfare. Major Ganesh's commitment to duty, strategic thinking, and fearless leadership earned him the respect and admiration of both his superiors and subordinates.
Budgam Operation : 27 Sep 1995
By September 1995, Major Ganesh Madappa was serving with 36 Rashtriya Rifles (RR), which was actively engaged in counter-insurgency operations in Budgam district, Jammu and Kashmir. On 27 September 1995, Major Ganesh Madappa was entrusted with the critical task of conducting a spot raid on a militant hideout in Village Bachhru, located in Badgam District of Jammu and Kashmir. The mission was part of ongoing counter-insurgency operations aimed at neutralizing hostile elements posing a threat to national security. At 2030 hours, as Major Ganesh Madappa and his company column approached the suspected hideout, three armed militants, entrenched within a house, suddenly opened indiscriminate fire on the advancing troops. The sudden attack injured the leading scout, momentarily disrupting the movement of the unit. Demonstrating exceptional leadership, tactical acumen, and an unflinching presence of mind, Major Madappa immediately ordered his men to surround the house, cutting off all possible escape routes. With complete disregard for his own safety, he personally rushed forward to block the only known exit of the house, ensuring that the militants would not evade capture.
Sensing the imminent danger of encirclement, the militants desperately attempted to break free, charging out of the house while continuously firing at the security forces. At this critical juncture, Major Ganesh Madappa engaged them at close quarters, displaying extraordinary courage and combat skill. In the ensuing fierce exchange of gunfire, he sustained multiple gunshot wounds but remained steadfast in his resolve. Despite his grave injuries, Major Madappa, bleeding profusely, refused to retreat. With unwavering determination, he continued firing from the hip, successfully eliminating one of the militants. His tenacity and fighting spirit were evident as he continued to pursue the remaining militants, unwilling to let them escape. However, his injuries took a fatal toll, and he ultimately collapsed on the battlefield. He was later evacuated but succumbed to his wounds at 2245 hours on 27 September 1995.
Following the operation, the bullet-ridden body of one militant was recovered from the scene. Upon identification, the slain insurgent was confirmed to be a Pakistani-trained militant belonging to the Tariq-ul-Mujahideen, a known terrorist organization. In this selfless act of valour, indomitable spirit, and unwavering devotion to duty, Major Ganesh Madappa made the supreme sacrifice for the nation, upholding the finest traditions of the Indian Army. Maj Ganesh Madappa was given the gallantry award, “Shaurya Chakra” for his exceptional valour, leadership, devotion to duty and supreme sacrifice.
Maj Ganesh Madappa is survived by his wife Smt Nirupa Madappa and daughter Ms Tanavi.
Dronali
2025 at 11:47 amSir..I would like to know about Ashok More.who was in para force.Please let me know if you know him
Naveen B
2025 at 11:48 amJai hind sir
Meghana Aiyappa
2025 at 11:48 amMaama.. Thank you for everything that you did for us and for this country. You will remain in our hearts forever. We miss you dearly
Col Paramjit Singh, 89 Armd Regt
2025 at 11:49 am……my classmate in school till 10th in chandigarh, when I left for NDA to join the Army whereafter he joined me too, after his graduation from college n OTA n became my buddy course mates in Armoured Corp n v had the best of our times during YOs , the last we so closely interacted as I changed over to join Army Aviation.
In class he was the shortest of all us students, I never realising that he would one day rise so high not only physically to a 6 footer but also in his stature in the profession of Arms. He left us all in the glorious tradition of the services, in laying his life in the service of his motherland.
Miss u bro Muddy as I called him; RIP with the angels above
CAPT M V DINAKAR
2025 at 11:50 amBRAVE SOLDIER
Director
2025 at 11:50 amJai Hind ki Sena ! Jai Hind ke Laal !