Major Manwinder Singh

Major Manwinder Singh hailed from the princely city of Patiala, Punjab, and was the proud son of an Army veteran, Colonel Bakhtawar Singh. Growing up in a household shaped by discipline, honour, and service to the nation, young Manwinder Singh imbibed the values of the Armed Forces from an early age. Inspired by his father’s distinguished career, he nurtured a deep desire to wear the uniform and dedicate his life to the service of the nation. After completing his education, he pursued his dream and was commissioned into the Indian Army as an officer in the 38 Medium Regiment of the Regiment of Artillery—a vital combat arm renowned for its decisive role on the battlefield through superior firepower, technical expertise, and operational precision. From the very beginning of his military career, he adapted swiftly to the rigorous demands of service life. 

During the course of his service, he built a balanced life grounded in duty and family. He was married to Ms Poonam Deep, and the couple was blessed with a son, Armaan Deep, who became a source of immense pride and joy in his life. As his career progressed, he was later deputed to serve with the elite 28 Rashtriya Rifles Battalion, deployed in Jammu and Kashmir for counter-insurgency operations. By the year 2000, he had already served in several operational areas and, through consistent dedication and professional excellence, had risen to the rank of Major. His deputation to Rashtriya Rifles reflected the confidence reposed in him by the organisation and his readiness to serve in the most challenging and sensitive operational environments.

Baramulla Operation (J&K): 12 Dec 2000

By December 2000, Major Manwinder Singh’s unit, the 28 Rashtriya Rifles Battalion (28 RR), was deeply engaged in counter-insurgency operations in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, close to the Line of Control (LoC). This region was highly sensitive and vulnerable to frequent infiltration attempts by heavily armed militants, making it imperative for security forces to maintain constant vigilance and undertake proactive operations. Along with other units deployed in the area, including elements of 22 Rashtriya Rifles and additional security forces, 28 RR regularly conducted search, cordon, and destroy operations to curb militant activity and ensure the safety of civilians. The battalion operated under the Counter Insurgency Force (CIF) Kilo, which in turn functioned under the operational control of XV Corps (Chinar Corps), headquartered in Srinagar. XV Corps bears the critical responsibility of overseeing military operations across the Kashmir Valley and maintaining stability in one of the nation’s most challenging operational environments.

On 12 December 2000, Major Manwinder Singh of 28 Rashtriya Rifles was deployed at his post in the Shutalu area of Baramulla district (Bandipora sector), Jammu & Kashmir, an area frequently targeted by terrorist groups due to its operational sensitivity. The post was manned under challenging conditions, with the constant threat of militant attacks. On that day, a group of heavily armed terrorists launched a sudden and determined attack on the post, attempting to overrun it and cause maximum casualties. Major Manwinder Singh responded instantly, displaying exceptional presence of mind and battlefield leadership. True to the finest traditions of the Indian Army, he led from the front, personally directing his men, coordinating their response, and motivating them under intense enemy fire. As the assault intensified, Major Manwinder Singh moved across exposed positions to ensure effective deployment of his troops and to prevent the terrorists from breaching the defences. His calm courage, tactical clarity, and fearless resolve played a critical role in repulsing the attack and preventing the terrorists from achieving their objective.

During the fierce exchange of fire, Major Manwinder Singh was hit by multiple gunshots. Despite being grievously wounded, he continued to command, inspire, and encourage his men, refusing to be evacuated and placing the safety of his soldiers and the security of the post above his own life. His leadership ensured that the terrorist assault was successfully thwarted. Major Manwinder Singh ultimately succumbed to his injuries on the battlefield, laying down his life in the line of duty. 

Major Manwinder Singh is survived by his wife, Smt. Poonam Deep and his son, Armaan Deep.