Rifleman Krishna Kumar Singh SC

Rifleman Krishna Kumar Singh was born on 1 October 1966 in Azamgarh district of Uttar Pradesh, India. He grew up in a family where patriotism, discipline, and dedication to the nation were deeply respected values. From a young age, he was surrounded by stories of courage and sacrifice that shaped his character and inspired his future path of service. His father, Capt Devraj Singh, served in the 21 Rajput Regiment of the Indian Army. During his distinguished career, Captain Devraj Singh took part in major conflicts, including the Sino-Indian War and the Indo-Pakistani Wars. In recognition of his dedicated service, he was honoured with several medals by the Government of India. He also had the honour of serving in the security detail of the President of India, Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. Continuing the family’s legacy of service, his younger brother, Vijay Kumar Singh, joined the Corps of Engineers and served in the 65 Engineer Regiment before retiring from the Army in 2002. Rifleman Krishna Kumar Singh completed his education in the Azamgarh district. Inspired by his father’s exemplary service and dedication to the nation, he developed a deep desire to wear the uniform and serve the country.

Determined to serve the nation, Rifleman Krishna Kumar Singh joined the Indian Army in August 1987. Upon completion of his initial training, he was inducted into the 4th Battalion of the Assam Rifles, a distinguished paramilitary force operating under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs and closely associated with the Indian Army. Known for his discipline, dedication, and courage, he quickly earned the respect of his peers and superiors, establishing himself as a dependable and committed soldier. After some time in service, he married Ms Maya Devi, who stood by him as a pillar of strength and support throughout his journey in uniform.

Counter - Insurgency Operation(Manipur): 16 Aug 1993

In 1993, the 4th Battalion of the Assam Rifles, to which Rifleman Krishna Kumar Singh belonged, was deployed in the North East for counter-insurgency operations in a region affected by militant activity. On 16 August 1993, during this tenure, security forces received specific intelligence inputs regarding the presence of militants of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) hiding in Chahong Khunou village in the Kamjong-Chassad Subdivision of Ukhrul district, Manipur. Acting promptly on this information, a special patrol was organised to track down and neutralise the militants. Rifleman Krishna Kumar Singh was entrusted with the vital responsibility of serving as the scout, leading the patrol through the difficult jungle terrain. As the patrol cautiously advanced through the forested area, the surroundings appeared calm but potentially dangerous. Suddenly, the soldiers came under heavy and sudden fire from militants concealed behind thick bushes and natural cover. The unexpected ambush placed the patrol party in a highly critical situation. Showing remarkable courage and presence of mind, Rifleman Krishna Kumar Singh immediately took position and began returning fire while advancing toward the militants’ hideout. During the fierce exchange of gunfire, he was struck by a bullet in the stomach, causing severe injuries. Despite intense pain and heavy bleeding, he refused to retreat and continued to move forward, engaging the militants and motivating his comrades to press on with the mission.

As the firefight intensified, his injuries became increasingly severe, and he eventually collapsed to the ground. Displaying extraordinary determination, he continued crawling forward while firing his weapon at the militants. In the course of the engagement, he was struck by another bullet that left him almost paralysed. Even in that critical condition, he gathered his remaining strength and continued to fight alongside his fellow soldiers. Demonstrating exceptional bravery, he also hurled grenades toward the militants’ position, playing a significant role in weakening their resistance. Inspired by his fearless actions, the patrol continued the operation with renewed determination. As a result of the determined efforts of the team, one militant was captured, and five weapons, along with a large quantity of ammunition and explosives, were recovered from the militants’ hideout. While displaying exceptional courage, determination, and devotion to duty in the face of grave danger, Rifleman Krishna Kumar Singh eventually succumbed to his bullet wounds and attained martyrdom at the age of 27 years. His selfless actions ensured the success of the operation and safeguarded his fellow soldiers' lives. In recognition of his extraordinary bravery and supreme sacrifice, he was posthumously awarded the "Shaurya Chakra", one of the nation’s highest peacetime gallantry awards.

Rifleman Krishna Kumar Singh is survived by his wife, Smt. Maya Devi.

Citation for the 'Shaurya Chakra' awarded to him reads:-

On 16 August 1993, Rifleman Krishna Kumar Singh of ASSAM RIFLES was the leading scout of a special patrol assigned to assault a National Socialist Council of Nagaland hideout in Chahong Khunao. As they were assaulting the hideout, he was hit by hostile bullets in the abdomen; he continued firing while advancing towards the underground hideout. Even after collapsing from his injuries, he continued to fire and throw a grenade at the insurgents. Despite being hit by another bullet, he continued to attack until he succumbed to his injuries. His bravery and determination resulted in the capture of one insurgent, five weapons, and a large quantity of ammunition and explosives.