Major Ramni Shankar hailed from Bangalore, Karnataka, where he spent his formative years. From a young age, he exhibited qualities of discipline, courage, and a deep sense of patriotism. Inspired by the valour and dedication of the Indian Armed Forces, Major Ramani Shankar developed a strong desire to serve the nation in uniform. His determination and commitment eventually led him to pursue a career in the Indian Army. Major Ramni Shankar’s unwavering dedication bore fruit when he was commissioned as an officer into the prestigious 34 Medium Regiment of the Regiment of Artillery, a vital combat support arm of the Indian Army. The Regiment of Artillery plays a crucial role in battlefield operations, known for its expertise in operating powerful field guns, howitzers, and other advanced heavy weaponry. With its motto "Sarvatra Izzat-o-Iqbal" (Everywhere with Honour and Glory), the artillery regiment has consistently upheld its reputation as a formidable force in both defensive and offensive military operations.
The United Nations Iraq-Kuwait Observation Mission (UNIKOM) :19 Apr 1996
In 1996, Major Ramni Shankar, was selected for a prestigious assignment under the United Nations Iraq-Kuwait Observation Mission (UNIKOM). His deployment to this critical mission was a testament to his professionalism, leadership, and the trust his superiors placed in his abilities. UN peacekeeping operations often place military personnel in conflict-prone regions where maintaining stability, protecting civilians, and upholding international peace agreements are of utmost importance. UNIKOM was established in April 1991 following the Persian Gulf War, after Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait in 1990 and the subsequent military intervention by the US-led coalition in 1991. The mission was mandated by United Nations Security Council Resolution 689 and tasked with monitoring the demilitarized zone (DMZ) along the Iraq-Kuwait border to prevent further hostilities.
The primary objectives of UNIKOM were to: (a) Supervise and verify the withdrawal of Iraqi forces from Kuwaiti territory. (b) Monitor the demilitarized zone and ensure neither Iraq nor Kuwait violated the terms of the ceasefire. (c) Prevent border violations and any unauthorized military movements in the region. (d) Assist in humanitarian efforts and provide a stabilizing presence along the fragile border. India, known for its significant contributions to UN peacekeeping missions, had deployed experienced officers and troops as part of UNIKOM. These personnel were responsible for patrolling the DMZ, ensuring compliance with ceasefire agreements, and reporting any violations to the UN Security Council. Major Ramni Shankar’s role in UNIKOM demanded not only military expertise but also diplomacy, patience, and resilience. The geopolitical tensions in the region remained high even after the Gulf War, with frequent border skirmishes, landmine threats, and hostilities from rogue elements. Despite UNIKOM’s neutral stance, peacekeepers often faced dangers from unexploded ordnance, armed militias, and volatile political dynamics between Iraq and Kuwait.
While serving as part of UNIKOM, Major Shankar encountered a challenging and perilous situation. The details remain classified, but historical records indicate that peacekeepers in UNIKOM faced multiple threats, including hostile fire, ambushes, and landmine explosions. It is believed that on April 19, 1996, during a routine patrol or a peacekeeping operation in the demilitarized zone, he was caught in a hostile engagement or a landmine explosion. Despite the life-threatening circumstances, Major Ramni Shankar displayed exceptional bravery and unwavering dedication to duty. Whether securing a critical UN post, protecting fellow peacekeepers, or ensuring the safety of civilians, his courage in the face of adversity was commendable. In the finest traditions of the Indian Army, he made the supreme sacrifice, laying down his life in service of global peace and security. His sacrifice serves as a reminder of the risks peacekeepers face and the high price they sometimes pay to uphold peace in volatile regions.
India has been one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions, and officers like Major Ramni Shankar exemplify the nation’s dedication to global stability. Indian peacekeepers have served in UNIKOM, UNIFIL (Lebanon), MONUC (Congo), UNMISS (South Sudan), and several other missions worldwide. Their role in preventing conflicts, protecting civilians, and rebuilding war-torn nations has been widely recognized and respected. Major Ramni Shankar’s legacy endures in the history of Indian peacekeeping efforts.
Major Ramni Shankar is survived by his wife Smt Bharti Shankar.
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