Sep Patil Mahadev R

Sepoy Patil Mahadev Rajaram hailed from Itakare village in Walwa tehsil of Sangli district, Maharashtra. From an early age, he was deeply inspired by the ideals of patriotism and service to the nation, which led him to join the Indian Army after completing his school education. He was inducted into the 16 Maratha Light Infantry (16 MLI), a battalion of the prestigious Maratha Light Infantry Regiment. Known for its battle cry, “Bola Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Ki Jai” (Hail King Shivaji), the regiment boasts a rich history that dates back to the 18th century and is renowned for its motto “Duty, Honour, Courage.” The Maratha Light Infantry is among the oldest and most decorated regiments of the Indian Army, with an unparalleled legacy of valor and sacrifice. Its soldiers are revered for their fierce fighting spirit and have consistently demonstrated exemplary courage in some of the most challenging battles in history. Sepoy Patil Mahadev embodied these values, serving with honour and unwavering dedication, and upheld the regiment’s proud tradition throughout his service.

In 1993, Sepoy Patil Mahadev's unit, 16 MLI, was deployed to Nagaland, a region struggling with insurgency and unrest. The northeastern states of India were grappling with significant challenges posed by armed insurgent groups, necessitating a robust military presence to ensure peace and stability. As part of "Operation Orchid," the battalion was tasked with counter-insurgency operations, operating in treacherous terrain under highly volatile conditions.

Nagaland Operation: 20th Dec 1993

On December 20, 1993, Sepoy Patil Mahadev was part of a convoy led by Colonel N Jayachandran Nair, moving along the strategic Mokokchung-Mariani Road in Nagaland. The convoy was ambushed by a group of around 100 insurgents armed with sophisticated automatic weapons in a meticulously planned attack. Facing relentless and intense gunfire, Sepoy Patil Mahadev displayed extraordinary courage and composure under fire. Despite being heavily outnumbered, he engaged the attackers in a fierce gunfight alongside his comrades, showing unwavering bravery and determination.

During the fierce exchange of fire, Sep Patil Mahadev Rajaram fought valiantly, embodying the highest traditions of courage and selflessness that define the Indian Army. In the line of duty, he sustained grievous injuries and made the ultimate sacrifice, laying down his life for the nation. The ambush claimed the lives of 13 other brave soldiers, including Col N Jayachandran Nair, Nb Sub Bhosale MS, Hav Shedge Laxman S, Nk Nikam Balu S, L/Nk Chougule JR, L/Nk AG Jadhav, Sep Ramesh S Kakade, Sep Pabale Nitin M, Sep Jadhav Gorakh N, Sep Kulkarni NP, Sep Surender, Sep Patil Subhash S, and Sep Deepak Galande. Their supreme sacrifice remains a testament to the valor and dedication of the Indian Army. Sep Patil Mahadev Rajaram displayed courage and determination of a high order during the battle and laid down his life in the line of his duty.

Sep Patil Mahadev is survived by his mother Smt Sonabai.