Major Rajesh Nair SM

Major Rajesh Nair hailed from Maharashtra and was born on 22nd November 1970. He graduated in Chemistry from Mumbai University and followed his dream of joining the army. After clearing the Combined Defence Services Examination, he joined the prestigious OTA Chennai as part of the SS 55 Course. He was commissioned into the Regiment of Artillery, an important combat support arm of the Indian Army well known for its heavy field guns. 

After joining the field unit, he soon learned professional skills and developed into a tough soldier and fine officer. After serving for a few years, he got married to Ms Supriya and the couple was blessed with a son Siddhant. Later in his service career, Major Rajesh Nair was deputed to serve with 4 Rashtriya Rifles battalion deployed in J & K. 

Bhaderwah (Doda) Operation : 15 Nov 2001

During the year 2001, Maj Rajesh Nair’s unit was deployed in the terrorist-infested area of Doda district J & K.  4 RR battalion was operating as part of the Counter Insurgency Force (CIF) (Delta Force) under the operational control of XVI Corps also known as 'White Knight Corps', one of the finest operational Corps of the Indian Army looking after the extent of Pir Panjal Ranges to the Shivalik Ranges and also the plains of Jammu and Akhnoor. The unit was operating in a militant-infested area and consequently, it had to undertake operations against the militants frequently. The area was also prone to infiltration, which necessitated regular armed patrols to check any infiltration from across the border. By 2001, Maj Rajesh Nair had evolved into a battle-hardened and committed soldier with more than 22 successful military operations to his credit. On 15 Nov 2001, Maj Rajesh Nair’s unit had received credible information from intelligence sources about the presence of terrorists in its area of operation. After assessing the situation a decision was taken to launch a search and destroy operation in Mounda village in the Bhaderwah (Doda) area of J&K.

Maj Rajesh Nair was part of the assault team that was assigned to undertake the operation. Soon the team spotted the terrorists, who fired at them on being challenged. A fierce gun battle ensued with heavy exchange of fire. During the battle, Maj Rajesh Nair got hit by the bullets and was seriously injured. However, when Maj Rajesh Nair saw one of his comrades Maj Johnson Lobo in the direct line of fire, he pulled him to safety despite himself being critically wounded. Maj Rajesh Nair later succumbed to his injuries and was martyred but his courage motivated his troops to counterattack with double vigour and complete the assigned mission successfully. Maj Rajesh Nair was given the gallantry award “Sena Medal” for his valiant action, unyielding fighting spirit, and supreme sacrifice.

Major Rajesh Nair is survived by his wife Smt Supriya Nair and son Shri Siddhant Nair.