Naik Bhukhan Oraon

Nk Bhukhan Oraon hailed from Bhndaria village of Phori tehsil in Gumla district of Jharkhand. He joined the Indian Army as a young man, immediately after completing his school education. This early decision to serve the nation highlights his determination, discipline, and a strong sense of duty toward his country. His recruitment into the 8 Bihar Battalion of the Bihar Regiment marked the beginning of a distinguished journey in one of the Indian Army's most celebrated infantry units.

The Bihar Regiment, established in 1941, is a symbol of valor and tradition in the Indian Army. As one of the oldest and most decorated infantry regiments, it has consistently upheld its reputation for bravery, loyalty, and selfless service. The regiment draws its soldiers primarily from the states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Odisha, regions known for their martial heritage and resilience.

Gurez Sector Avalanche: 17 Nov 2008

During 2008, Nk Bhukhan Oraon's unit 8 Bihar was deployed in J & K. The unit was deployed in the Gurez Sector along the LOC and had to face extreme weather conditions, especially during winter months. This region, notorious for its harsh terrain and extreme weather, presented formidable challenges, especially during the winter months. Temperatures would plummet, and the area would be blanketed by heavy snowfall, making even routine operations arduous and dangerous. The soldiers of the 8 Bihar Battalion were tasked with defending the LOC and maintaining surveillance over a strategic area prone to infiltration. They manned various forward posts, often operating in sub-zero temperatures. The troops had to undertake patrols between these posts to ensure the security of the sector, especially against potential threats from enemy forces. However, the unforgiving weather and unpredictable conditions added to the dangers they faced. Frequent heavy snowfall blocked roads, disrupted supply lines and increased the risk of avalanches, a common and deadly hazard in the Gurez Sector.

On 16 November 2008, an 'Area Domination Patrol' from the battalion was assigned a crucial task to traverse a planned route in the snow-covered terrain. The patrol aimed to monitor and secure the area between the forward posts, a standard procedure to prevent any enemy movement and ensure the safety of the sector. However, as the patrol progressed, a sudden and massive avalanche struck with devastating force. The sheer magnitude and unpredictability of the avalanche left the soldiers with no time to react or take evasive action. Trapped under tons of snow, several brave soldiers of the unit went missing, buried deep beneath the icy debris. Upon receiving the distress call about the missing soldiers, a search and rescue operation was set under the leadership of Major Ajay Upreti. Known for his exemplary leadership and deep sense of responsibility towards his troops, Major Upreti swiftly assembled a rescue team, including the Ghatak Platoon Commander, Lieutenant Amit Beniwal, and led the mission himself. Nk Bhukhan Oraon was part of the assigned team. Time was of the essence, as survival chances in such situations could diminish rapidly due to the severe cold and lack of oxygen. Nk Bhukhan Oraon and his comrades equipped with whatever gear was available, braved the blizzard-like conditions, navigating the treacherous snow-covered slopes. 

Despite the hostile weather and hazardous conditions, Nk Bhukhan Oraon and the rescue team pressed forward with determination and courage. They navigated through the deep snow and treacherous slopes, displaying exceptional resolve in their efforts to locate and save their fellow soldiers. The urgency of the situation demanded immediate action, and the team showed remarkable coordination and leadership as they conducted the rescue operation. However, as they worked tirelessly the snow mass, loosened by the earlier avalanche and the unstable weather conditions, came down in a powerful surge. This sudden onslaught of snow buried the entire rescue team, including Nk Bhukhan Oraon, Major Ajay Upreti, Lieutenant Amit Beniwal, and four other brave soldiers. Despite their heroic efforts, they were engulfed by the immense force of nature, and buried under tons of snow. The brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice alongside Nk Bhukhan Oraon include Maj Ajay Upreti, Lt Amit Beniwal, Nk Kishore Dung, Nk Amrit Lal Horo, L/Nk Saiba Baskey, and Sep Chandan Kumar Jha. 

Nk Bhukhan Oraon's ultimate sacrifice, alongside his comrades, serves as a powerful testament to the dangers confronted by Indian Army personnel in challenging and hostile terrains. His courage and dedication during the rescue mission reflected the true embodiment of the Indian Army's ethos, "Service Before Self." With unwavering commitment, Nk Bhukhan Oraon prioritized the lives and safety of his fellow soldiers over his own, exemplifying the highest ideals of duty, selflessness, and valour that define a soldier's life.

Nk Bhukhan Oraon is survived by his wife Smt Binita Devi.