Naik Budhi Singh SM

Naik Budhi Singh Pundir was born on February 10, 1960, in Badiargarh village, located in the Tehri district of Uttarakhand. He was the son of Shri Jaykrit Singh Pundir. Like many young men from Uttarakhand, he aspired to serve in the Armed Forces from a young age. Determined to fulfill this ambition, he joined the Indian Army after completing his school education. He was recruited into the 2 Garhwal Rifles Battalion of the Garhwal Rifles Regiment, an esteemed infantry regiment known for its fearless soldiers and a legacy of valour. The regiment has a distinguished history, having earned numerous battle honours through its participation in various military operations.

After dedicating a few years to military service, Naik Budhi Singh married Ms Bhani Devi, who also hailed from Uttarakhand. The couple was later blessed with a son, Yogesh Singh. By 1994, he had gained extensive experience in the Army, having served in multiple challenging operational areas. Through his dedication, discipline, and exceptional soldiering skills, he earned a promotion to the rank of Naik. He carried out his responsibilities with great efficiency and earned the respect of both his seniors and subordinates, solidifying his reputation as a committed and capable soldier.

Counter-Insurgency Operation: 13 Oct 1994

In February 1994, Naik Budhi Singh was serving with the 2 Garhwal Rifles and was deployed in Jammu & Kashmir, where he was frequently engaged in counter-insurgency operations. The unit’s Area of Responsibility (AOR) was highly prone to militant infiltration, requiring the troops to maintain a constant state of vigilance. Regular search-and-destroy operations were carried out to neutralize insurgent threats and prevent infiltration attempts. On October 13, 1994, based on credible intelligence reports about the presence of hardcore militants in the area, the security forces launched an armed patrol to track and eliminate them. Naik Budhi Singh was part of the patrol team assigned to the mission. The patrol led by Nb Sub Ansuya Prasad required the soldiers to navigate difficult terrain and conduct a search-and-cordon operation in a suspected infiltration zone. Fully aware of the dangers ahead, Naik Budhi Singh and his comrades set off for the mission with unwavering determination.

As per the plan, the team proceeded cautiously, scanning the rugged and treacherous landscape for any signs of insurgents. Their objective was to encircle the area, locate the militants, and neutralize them before they could establish strongholds. Given the hostile environment and the enemy’s familiarity with the terrain, the operation demanded exceptional courage and strategic precision. Upon reaching the designated location, the troops initiated a thorough search, moving carefully through dense cover to minimize exposure. As they advanced, the soldiers suddenly encountered a group of heavily armed militants. The troops challenged them, but the insurgents responded with a heavy burst of gunfire, triggering an intense and prolonged gun battle. The militants had occupied vantage positions, using the terrain to their advantage. However, Naik Budhi Singh and his team, determined to thwart the infiltration attempt, retaliated with precision and sustained firepower. The battle escalated into a fierce engagement, with bullets whizzing through the air as both sides fought relentlessly.

During the exchange of fire, Naik Budhi Singh was struck by a bullet and sustained critical injuries. Despite his grievous wounds, he refused to back down and continued fighting alongside his comrades, displaying commendable valour and unshakable determination. His courage inspired his fellow soldiers, who held their ground and kept the militants under pressure. Along with him, Nb Sub Ansuya Prasad also made the supreme sacrifice in the operation. Despite immediate medical assistance, both Naik Budhi Singh and Nb Sub Ansuya Prasad succumbed to their injuries. At the age of 34, Naik Budhi Singh laid down his life in the line of duty, upholding the highest traditions of the Indian Army. Naik Budhi Singh was posthumously awarded the “Sena Medal” for his exceptional courage, devotion to duty, and selfless service.

Naik Budhi Singh Pundir is survived by his wife Smt Bhani Devi and son Shri Yogesh Singh pundir.