Major Uttam Chand Katoch

Maj Uttam Chand Katoch was born on 31 May 1944 in Nagrota, located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. As the eldest of five siblings, he learned the value of responsibility early in life. The loss of his father at a young age shaped him into a man of perseverance, resilience, and unwavering commitment. Whether as a devoted son, a loving husband, a doting father, or a dedicated officer, he remained steadfast in these values throughout his life. From the serene hills of Kangra Valley, Maj Katoch carved his path to the prestigious Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, largely through his own efforts. His time at IMA left a profound impact on him, shaping his character and preparing him for the life of a soldier. Commissioned in 1971 into the Army Service Corps (ASC), he became part of a crucial corps responsible for providing logistical support to the army in both war and peace.

A voracious reader and lifelong learner, Maj Katoch constantly sought knowledge and applied it effectively in his career. His service took him to various operational units and formations across India, including Sagar, Sunderbani, Gwalior, Binaguri, Kota, Udhampur, Sriganganagar, and Secunderabad.  His leadership was further exemplified when he had the honour of commanding the 554 ASC Battalion in Sriganganagar. Beyond his professional achievements, Maj Katoch was known for his warm and affable nature. He enjoyed hosting friends, engaging in lively discussions, and creating a welcoming atmosphere. An avid golfer and passionate cook, he found joy in both sport and culinary arts. His life was a testament to discipline, camaraderie, and the spirit of service, leaving behind an enduring legacy for those who knew him.

Op Pawan: 24 Mar 1989

In 1989, Maj Uttam Chand Katoch was serving with his unit based in Secunderabad when new orders arrived. His unit was tasked with moving to Sri Lanka as part of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) operation to stabilize the volatile situation there. The Indian Army had been inducted in August 1987 under the assumption that the militant groups, including the feared Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), would surrender. However, the LTTE reneged on the agreement and launched a full-scale war against Indian forces. Initially, only the 54 Division was deployed, but as the conflict escalated, three more divisions—3, 4, and 57—were brought into action. By 1989, Indian forces had undertaken numerous operations against the LTTE, yet the war was far from over. Maj Katoch’s unit was deployed to Trincomalee, a strategic region in Sri Lanka, to provide crucial logistical and operational support.

In the conflict zone, Maj Katoch and his troops had to move frequently to support various missions. Every movement carried immense risk, as the routes were fraught with dangers—hidden IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices) and surprise attacks by LTTE militants. Constant vigilance was essential to survival. On 24 March 1989, while leading a reconnaissance mission in the outskirts of Trincomalee, Maj Katoch and his team came under a sudden attack. An IED, concealed within an abandoned bicycle propped against a tree, detonated just as the patrol approached. The explosion was followed by heavy gunfire from LTTE militants. Reacting swiftly, Maj Katoch took immediate charge, rallying his soldiers and engaging the enemy in a fierce gun battle. The exchange of fire raged for over an hour, with Indian troops holding their ground despite the ambush. In the intense combat, Maj Katoch fought valiantly but sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Alongside him, Maj Suresh Harsha and Sepoy Ramesh Baban Shinde also made the supreme sacrifice, defending their comrades till the very end.

Despite the extreme dangers he faced, Maj Katoch rarely spoke of the threats to his family. He often described Sri Lanka as scenic and peaceful, shielding his wife from worry, as she had three children to care for. On the morning of 24 March 1989, just hours before his final mission, he wrote four letters—one to his wife and one to each of his children—urging them to take care of their mother and behave responsibly. As if sensing the inevitable, he left behind words of guidance and love. Tragically, the news of his martyrdom reached his family before his letters did. Maj Uttam Chand Katoch was a soldier of rare courage and dedication, upholding the highest traditions of the Indian Army. His sacrifice stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to duty and his nation. His memory continues to inspire generations, reminding us of the price of freedom and the indomitable spirit of those who protect it.

Maj Uttam Chand Katoch is survived by his wife Smt Bimla Katoch, son Dr. Vikram Katoch and daughters Dr. Namrata Katoch & Mrs Swati Katoch.