Naik Chhail Bihari

Naik Chhail Bihari was born in Nagla Devia village in Govardhan tehsil of Mathura district in Uttar Pradesh. He was the son of Shri Ramkumar and Smt Kiran Devi. Growing up in a close-knit family, he shared his childhood with his brother, Chaturbhuj Singh, and three sisters—Gayatri Devi, Savitri Devi, and Urmila Devi. From an early age, he exhibited qualities of discipline, determination, and a strong sense of responsibility. After completing his initial education, Naik Chhail Bihari felt a deep calling to serve his country. He joined the Indian Army and was inducted into the 22 Grenadiers Battalion of the Grenadiers Regiment—a prestigious infantry regiment renowned for its gallant soldiers and decorated history. The regiment had earned numerous battle honours and played a crucial role in various military operations, showcasing exemplary bravery and valour.

Apart from being a devoted soldier, Naik Chhail Bihari was also a loving family man. After some years of service, he got married to Ms Ramwati Devi, and together they built a happy family. They were blessed with a son, Dinesh Chand Kuntal, and five daughters—Sheela Devi, Sunita Devi, Anita Devi, Savita Devi, and Kavita Devi. Despite the challenges and demands of military life, he always remained a source of strength and guidance for his family.

Operation Rakshak: 31 Jul 1992

During 1992, the 22 Grenadiers battalion was deployed in Jammu and Kashmir as part of its operational commitment to maintaining security along the Line of Control (LoC). The region remained highly volatile, with frequent ceasefire violations and insurgent activities posing a constant threat to the troops manning forward posts. It was within this challenging environment that Naik Chhail Bihari displayed exemplary bravery and dedication to duty. On 31st July 1992, as part of Operation Rakshak, the 'B' Company of 22 Grenadiers was tasked with a critical mission in a village, located in Awantipora tehsil of Pulwama district of J&K. The area was known for high militant activity, and intelligence reports indicated the presence of heavily armed insurgents posing a serious threat to both military personnel and civilians. The mission involved establishing a temporary camp in the village to counter the ongoing militant threats and ensure stability in the region. Following orders from the Brigade Headquarters, the troops, under the command of their Commanding Officer (CO), moved towards Bisal village. The CO led the convoy, accompanied by his Quick Reaction Team (QRT), which included Naik Chhail Bihari. Fully aware of the dangers ahead, Naik Chhail Bihari carried a rocket launcher, prepared to respond to any hostile engagement.

As the convoy advanced, they came under a sudden and intense ambush by a group of heavily armed terrorists. The enemy unleashed indiscriminate fire on the unit, attempting to inflict maximum casualties. In the face of this life-threatening attack, Naik Chhail Bihari exhibited extraordinary valour and presence of mind. Without hesitation, he dismounted from his Casper (armored vehicle), took a strategic position, and engaged the insurgents with his rocket launcher. His precise and relentless counterattack neutralized an enemy machine gun position, significantly weakening the ambush and allowing his comrades to regroup and respond effectively. Despite his valiant efforts, Naik Chhail Bihari sustained a grievous gunshot wound to his chest during the intense exchange of fire. However, his resolve remained unshaken. Summoning every ounce of his strength, he continued to fight, ensuring the safety of his unit and giving them a tactical advantage. His selfless and fearless actions played a crucial role in repelling the ambush, saving numerous lives in the process. In the heat of the battle, Naik Chhail Bihari ultimately succumbed to his injuries, making the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. His courageous stand and unwavering commitment to the mission upheld the highest traditions of the Indian Army, epitomizing the spirit of honour, duty, and selfless service.

Naik Chhail Bihari is survived by his wife Smt Ramwati Devi, his son Hav Dinesh Chand Kuntal, who followed in his father's footsteps by serving in the 2 Grenadiers, and his five daughters—Smt Sheela Devi, Smt Sunita Devi, Smt Anita Devi, Smt Savita Devi, and Smt Kavita Devi.