Major Sanjay Sood SC

Major Sanjay Sood hailed from Gautam Budh Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, and was born on July 16, 1967. Major Sanjay Sood and his elder brother Ajay were deeply inspired by their father’s distinguished military service. Their father, who retired as a Lieutenant Colonel, had served the nation with dedication from 1947, participating in several major operations and conflicts. His illustrious career included contributions to the United Nations Peacekeeping Force, the 1961 Goa Liberation, the 1962 Indo-China War, the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak wars, as well as critical internal security operations during the Assam insurgency and the Punjab disturbances. Witnessing their father’s unwavering commitment to duty, both brothers were motivated to follow in his footsteps. In 1984, Major Sanjay Sood joined the National Defence Academy (NDA), while his brother Ajay enrolled in the Officers Training Academy (OTA) Chennai. Remarkably, they both commenced their military training on the same day in 1984. Major Sanjay Sood was commissioned into the Brigade of the Guards, an elite infantry regiment of the Indian Army, known for its valiant soldiers and a glorious history of battle exploits. The regiment, renowned for its exceptional combat skills, has played a pivotal role in numerous military operations, further strengthening the defense of the nation.

Demonstrating exceptional leadership qualities and tactical acumen, Major Sanjay Sood later received a deputation to serve with the 21 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) battalion. The Rashtriya Rifles, a specialized counter-insurgency force, is responsible for maintaining stability and combating terrorism in volatile regions. The 21 RR battalion was actively deployed in Jammu and Kashmir, where insurgency and terrorism posed a persistent threat to national security. As part of the Counter Insurgency Force, Major Sanjay Sood undertook several high-risk operations, displaying unwavering courage and strategic prowess in neutralizing insurgent threats. His deployment in Jammu and Kashmir was marked by numerous challenging assignments that demanded quick decision-making, adaptability, and an indomitable spirit. Despite the harsh terrains and unpredictable threats, he led his troops with exemplary determination, ensuring their safety while executing operations with precision.

Militant attack (Kupwara district): 22 June 2000

In 2000, Major Sanjay Sood’s unit, the 21 Rashtriya Rifles, was deployed in the Kupwara district of Jammu & Kashmir, a region known for frequent militant activity and volatile security conditions. The unit was tasked with manning forward posts in the Rajwar sector along the Line of Control (LoC), an area that had long been a hotspot for infiltration attempts by heavily armed militants. The rugged mountainous terrain, dense forests, and treacherous weather conditions made the task of securing the region extremely challenging. The area under their jurisdiction was often subjected to infiltration attempts and militant attacks, necessitating constant vigilance and proactive counter-insurgency operations. Being an experienced and dedicated officer, Major Sanjay Sood took on the responsibility of leading his troops with unwavering commitment. Under his command, the unit conducted numerous reconnaissance and search operations, preempting enemy movements and thwarting infiltration attempts. Despite the persistent threats, Major Sood led by example, ensuring that his troops remained motivated and battle-ready at all times.

On June 22, 2000, a significant encounter took place when militants launched a well-planned attack on Indian forward posts. The attack was sudden and intense, with militants using automatic weapons and grenades to create chaos and inflict heavy casualties. The situation called for immediate and decisive action, and Major Sanjay Sood did not hesitate to take charge. Understanding the gravity of the situation, he quickly assessed the enemy’s positions and devised a counter-offensive strategy. Displaying exemplary courage and tactical brilliance, Major Sood led his men in a swift counter-insurgency operation, charging fearlessly towards the enemy under a hail of bullets. His leadership and battlefield acumen proved crucial in repelling the attack. Engaging in fierce combat, he fought valiantly, coordinating his troops effectively and ensuring minimal casualties on the Indian side. However, amidst the heavy exchange of gunfire, Major Sood sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Despite his injuries, he continued to fight, refusing to retreat or abandon his men. Despite receiving immediate medical aid, Major Sanjay Sood succumbed to his injuries, making the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. Major Sanjay Sood’s extraordinary courage, unwavering commitment, and ultimate sacrifice earned him the nation's gratitude and deep respect. In recognition of his exemplary gallantry and selfless service, he was posthumously awarded the prestigious "Shaurya Chakra," India’s third-highest peacetime gallantry award.

Major Sanjay Sood is survived by his wife, Smt Sangeeta Sood and brother Captain Ajay kumar Sood (Retd).