Rifleman Vishnu Prasad

Rifleman Vishnu Prasad hailed from Mohammadpur village in Siwan district of Bihar, a region known for its strong traditions of courage, resilience, and service to the nation. Driven by a deep sense of duty towards the country, he joined the Assam Rifles—India’s oldest paramilitary force, renowned for its vital role in maintaining peace and security in the North-East. While serving with the 7 Assam Rifles Battalion, he was deployed in Manipur, where he operated in a challenging environment affected by insurgency. Through rigorous training and field experience, he evolved into a disciplined, reliable, and courageous soldier. Despite constant risks and hardships, he carried out his responsibilities with unwavering commitment, actively participating in counter-insurgency operations to protect civilians and restore stability. 

Manipur Operation: 20 Feb 2002

In 2002, Rifleman Vishnu Prasad was serving with the 7 Assam Rifles Battalion in Manipur, a region then grappling with intense militancy and insurgent activity. Deployed in Thoubal—one of the most sensitive and volatile areas—he operated in an environment where danger was constant and unpredictable. Security forces were engaged in relentless counter-insurgency operations to curb militant activities and restore peace for the local population. Rifleman Vishnu Prasad was part of a highly committed and courageous team of 7 Assam Rifles Battalion that regularly undertook high-risk missions, often venturing into hostile terrain to neutralize threats and ensure the safety of civilians. Known for his discipline and dedication, he carried out his duties with quiet determination and a deep sense of responsibility. On 20 February 2002, following a carefully planned and successfully executed search operation under the leadership of Captain Sameer Bhan, Rifleman Vishnu Prasad and his team began their return through the Top Chungtha area. Despite the success of the mission, the region remained highly volatile, with constant threats from insurgent activity. As the convoy proceeded along the route, terrorists detonated a powerful Improvised Explosive Device (IED) that had been strategically planted to target the returning troops. The explosion was devastating, resulting in severe casualties and plunging the area into chaos and confusion.

In the immediate aftermath of the blast, amidst thick smoke, debris, and the cries of the injured, Rifleman Vishnu Prasad displayed exceptional courage and presence of mind. Despite the grave danger and the shock of the explosion, he did not falter. Instead, he rose to the occasion, assisting his comrades and contributing actively to rescue and evacuation efforts. Even as he faced life-threatening injuries, he remained steadfast in his duty—helping the wounded, supporting his team, and ensuring that others were moved to safety. Placing the safety of others above his own, Rifleman Vishnu Prasad stood firm in those critical moments, embodying the highest traditions of the force. Tragically, the injuries he sustained in the blast proved fatal, and he made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. Alongside him, three other bravehearts of the 7 Assam Rifles—Captain Sameer Bhan, Rifleman Radha Krishnan, and Rifleman Arun Kumar Rana—also laid down their lives during the same operation on 20 February 2002.

Rifleman Vishnu Prasad is survived by his wife, Smt Rampati Devi.