Naik Radha Kumar VN

Naik Radha Kumar was born on 14 March 1973 in Cheppad village of Alappuzha district, Kerala—an area known for its strong tradition of producing brave and dedicated soldiers. Growing up in this environment, he developed a deep admiration for the Armed Forces from an early age. Inspired by the ideals of courage, discipline, and patriotism, he nurtured a strong desire to serve the nation in uniform. Driven by this aspiration, he joined the Indian Army soon after completing his schooling. He was recruited into the Parachute Regiment, one of the Army’s most prestigious and battle-hardened regiments, renowned for its elite paratroopers and their role in high-risk, strategically critical operations. 

Motivated to push his limits further and take on greater challenges, he volunteered for the Special Forces, the elite wing of the Parachute Regiment. The selection process for the Special Forces is among the most demanding in the military, testing not only physical stamina but also mental resilience and psychological strength. Displaying remarkable determination, he successfully cleared this rigorous selection and underwent specialised training, after which he was inducted into 9 Para (Special Forces). Raised in 1966, the unit has earned a formidable reputation for its expertise in mountain warfare, as well as counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations. His induction into this elite unit was a testament to his courage, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to serve in the most challenging combat roles.

Kargil War (Op Vijay): 01 July 1999

During June–July 1999, in the midst of Operation Vijay, Naik Radha Kumar’s unit, 9 Para (Special Forces), was deployed in the Mashkoh Sub Sector of Kargil in Jammu & Kashmir. During this period, 9 Para (Special Forces) was operating under the command of the 192 Mountain Brigade, led by Brigadier MPS Bajwa. The brigade was part of the 8 Mountain Division, commanded by Major General Mohinder Puri, which in turn functioned under the XV Corps, led by Lieutenant General Kishan Pal. The XV Corps was under the overall operational control of the Northern Command, commanded by Lieutenant General HM Khanna. During the intense operations of the Kargil War, the Mashkoh Sub Sector in Kargil became the setting for some of the most daring missions undertaken by the Indian Army. One such critical task was assigned to the elite 9 PARA (Special Forces)—the capture of a strategically vital feature known as Sando Top, located at an altitude of approximately 5,250 metres.

• In recognition of his supreme sacrifice and extraordinary courage, a memorial (samadhi) has been built in the front portion of Naik Radha Kumar’s home, standing as a lasting tribute to his valour and unwavering devotion to the nation.