Sepoy Ravindra Salgude

Sepoy Ravindra Salgude was born on 15 February 1980 in Daddi village in Hukeri taluka of Belgaum district in Karnataka. He was the son of Smt Suman, and from an early age, he displayed a strong sense of discipline, responsibility, and a deep desire to serve the nation. After completing his school education, Sep Ravindra was drawn to the life of service and sacrifice that the Indian Army represents. Motivated by a strong sense of patriotism and duty, he chose to join the Indian Army. He was recruited into the 2nd Battalion of the Maratha Light Infantry (2 MLI)—one of the most distinguished battalions of the Maratha Light Infantry Regiment. This regiment has a long and illustrious history, known for producing fearless and battle-hardened soldiers who have earned numerous gallantry awards and battle honours over the years.

Following his induction, Sep Ravindra Salgude underwent rigorous military training where he imbibed the core values of discipline, resilience, and teamwork. He quickly adapted to military life and honed his physical and tactical skills. Through his commitment and dedication, he evolved into a fine soldier, earning the respect of his peers and superiors alike. Over the course of his service, he was deployed in various operational areas, where he demonstrated courage and steadfastness under challenging conditions. 

Counter-Insurgency Operation(J&K): 30 Jul 2002

In July 2002, Sepoy Ravindra Salgude was serving with his unit near Srinagar, the capital of Jammu & Kashmir, a region marked by persistent conflict and hostile terrain. His battalion, 2 Maratha Light Infantry (2 MLI), was deployed in an Area of Responsibility (AOR) that encompassed rugged mountainous terrain, remote locations, and faced extreme weather conditions, especially during the winter months. The unit operated in high-altitude forward areas where survival required both physical endurance and mental fortitude. Due to the high-altitude and harsh conditions, all soldiers—whether newly posted or returning from leave—had to undergo a mandatory acclimatization process at designated transit camps before joining their posts. The environment was tense and volatile, with frequent ceasefire violations and the looming threat of terrorist infiltration, which was often supported by Pakistani security forces. The troops regularly carried out patrols and ambush operations to detect and neutralize these threats, maintaining constant vigilance despite the ever-present dangers.

Amidst this challenging backdrop, Sepoy Ravindra Salgude remained fully committed to his duties, always displaying remarkable discipline and alertness under pressure. On 30 July 2002, Sepoy Ravindra Salgude was part of an armed patrol in an area falling under the AOR of the unit. At approximately 1430 hours, Sepoy Ravindra Salgude and his team detected suspicious movement in their sector and identified a group of armed terrorists attempting to infiltrate the area. As they moved to intercept, the team came under sudden and intense fire from terrorists hiding in a vantage position. Reacting swiftly, the soldiers returned fire and engaged the terrorists in a fierce exchange. The enemy responded with aggressive and indiscriminate firing, attempting to break through the ambush line. A heavy gun battle ensued, during which Sepoy Ravindra Salgude and his team fought back with determination and courage, holding their ground despite the hostile conditions.

In the ensuing clash, four soldiers, including Sepoy Ravindra Salgude, sustained critical injuries while repelling the attack. They were immediately evacuated to the Military Hospital in Srinagar for emergency treatment. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, Sep Ravindra Salgude, along with Sep Narawade S.P., Sep Badakh B.V., and Sep Urkude A.A., succumbed to their injuries and were martyred in the line of duty. Sepoy Ravindra Salgude’s supreme sacrifice at the age of 22 years in the face of grave danger exemplifies the highest traditions of bravery and service in the Indian Army. 

Sep Ravindra Salgude is survived by his mother Smt Suman.