Paratrooper Mahiman Singh Nayal SC

Paratrooper Mahiman Singh Nayal hailed from Nainital in Uttarakhand, a region known for its rich history of producing brave soldiers dedicated to the service of the nation. He was the son of son of Shri Govind Singh and Smt Anandi Devi, who instilled in him values of discipline, perseverance, and patriotism from an early age. Inspired by the stories of heroism and sacrifice, he nurtured the dream of joining the Indian Armed Forces from his childhood. Following his passion, Ptr Mahiman Singh Nayal successfully enlisted in the Indian Army and was recruited into the Parachute Regiment, the elite infantry regiment that is renowned for its highly skilled para commandos, specialized training, and numerous daring operations in some of the most challenging battlefields.  

Later Ptr Mahiman Singh Nayal underwent rigorous and grueling training to earn the coveted Maroon Beret, a symbol of excellence and unparalleled skill in airborne and special operations. His training included advanced combat techniques, high-altitude parachute jumps, counter-terrorism operations, and survival skills in hostile environments. He joined 3 Para (SF) and was entrusted with critical missions that demanded mental fortitude, physical endurance, and an unbreakable spirit. Through his service in 3 Para (SF), Ptr Mahiman Singh Nayal became part of a proud legacy of warriors who have played a pivotal role in safeguarding the nation's sovereignty. 

Nagaland Operation: 27 Jan 1996

During 1996, the 3rd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment was deployed in Nagaland as part of counter-insurgency operations. The region was experiencing heightened militant activity, necessitating increased vigilance and proactive operations by security forces. Paratrooper Mahiman Singh Nayal was among the brave soldiers serving in this demanding and perilous environment. On 27 January 1996, a column of 3 Para was tasked with a high-risk mission in Dimapur Town, Nagaland. Their objective was to apprehend a high-value underground operative responsible for orchestrating insurgent activities in the region. The mission was meticulously planned and executed successfully. However, while returning to their unit, the column was ambushed by insurgents in a well-coordinated attack. The assault began with the insurgents lobbing two grenades at the military vehicle. One grenade landed inside the vehicle, while the second got entangled in the tarpaulin covering it. Realizing the imminent danger to his comrades, Paratrooper Mahiman Singh Nayal acted without hesitation. He immediately alerted his fellow soldiers, urging them to jump out of the vehicle while he simultaneously attempted to dislodge the grenade from the tarpaulin. However, as he did so, the grenade accidentally rolled inside the vehicle, placing the entire team at grave risk.

Fully aware of the catastrophic consequences if the grenade detonated inside the vehicle, Paratrooper Mahiman displayed remarkable courage and presence of mind. Without regard for his own safety, he swiftly picked up the grenade and hurled it away. Tragically, it exploded just as it left his hand, causing him grievous injuries. However, his selfless act ensured that his comrades remained unharmed. Despite his severe injuries, the battle was far from over. The insurgents intensified their ambush, opening heavy automatic fire on the soldiers. They attempted to seize weapons from the wounded troops, seeking to turn the encounter in their favor. Even in his critical state, Paratrooper Mahiman refused to let the enemy succeed. Summoning his remaining strength, he picked up his rifle and engaged the insurgents with fierce determination. His accurate fire injured one of the attackers, forcing the remaining insurgents to retreat. His bravery prevented the enemy from looting weapons and gaining an upper hand in the confrontation.

At 1815 hours on 27 January 1996, Paratrooper Mahiman Singh Nayal succumbed to his injuries, making the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. Alongside him, Paratrooper Prakash Chandra also laid down his life during the same operation, exemplifying unparalleled bravery and devotion. Paratrooper Mahiman Singh Nayal’s selflessness, unflinching courage, and extraordinary valour in the face of grave danger reflect the highest traditions of the Indian Army and the elite Parachute Regiment. In recognition of his exceptional gallantry and unwavering sense of duty, Paratrooper Mahiman Singh Nayal was posthumously awarded the "Shaurya Chakra". This prestigious honour pays tribute to his remarkable bravery and enduring legacy as a soldier who put duty above all else—even life itself.

Paratrooper Mahiman Singh Nayal is survived by his wife, Smt Deepa Nayal.

The citation for "Shaurya  Chakra" awarded to him reads:

On 27 January 1996 a column of 3 Para was despatched to apprehend a very important underground in Dimapur Town of Nagaland. Paratrooper Mahiman of 3rd Battalion, of the Parachute Regiment was part of this column. The undergrounds ambushed while the column was returning to the unit. The ambush commenced with the lobbing of two grenades, one of which fell inside the vehicle while the second got stuck in its tarpauline. Paratrooper Mahiman realising the grave danger shouted to his comrades to jump out of the vehicle. Simultaneously he jerked the tarpauline to dislodge the grenade but unfortunately it rolled inside the vehicle. Fully knowing that the grenade would burst any time he swiftly picked the grenade and threw it. The grenade burst in his face and fatally injured him. His Valiant attempt did not go waste as it saved the lives of the others. It was just then that the insurgents opened heavy automatic fire and another group dashed to snatch weapons of his injured comrades. With all his residual strength Mahiman picked up his rifle and opened fire on the assailants and injured one. His stupendous grit and determination made the undergrounds fiee and foiled their attempt to get away with the weapons. He succumbed to his injuries at 1815 hours on 27 January 1996.

Paratrooper Mahiman Singh Nayal, thus displayed  conspicuous gallantry, raw courage, supreme sacrifice and his personal devotion to duty with utter disregard to safety.