Sepoy Dharma Ram Beniwal SC

Sepoy Dharma Ram Beniwal hailed from Taratara village in the Barmer district of Rajasthan, a region known for its hardy and resilient people. He was born on 21 December 1983 to Shri Gang Ram Beniwal and Smt. Amru Devi. Growing up in a rural environment, he imbibed values of discipline, perseverance, and a deep sense of duty from an early age. Driven by a desire to serve the nation, he joined the Indian Army on 23 July 2003 at the age of 19, soon after completing his initial education. He was inducted into the 4th Battalion of the Mahar Regiment, a distinguished infantry regiment known for its gallant history and steadfast service to the nation. During his early years in the Army, Sepoy Dharma Ram underwent rigorous military training and steadily evolved into a disciplined and dependable soldier. He served with his battalion in various operational areas across different terrains, gaining valuable field experience under diverse and often challenging conditions. These tenures helped him develop strong combat skills, adaptability, and a keen understanding of operational dynamics. On the personal front, he got married to Ms. Timu Devi in 2007. The couple was blessed with two children—a daughter, Rajeshwari, and a son, Harish. Despite the demands of military life, he remained a devoted family man, balancing his responsibilities with quiet strength and commitment.

Recognizing his capability and professionalism, he was later deputed to a unit of the Rashtriya Rifles, which was actively engaged in counter-insurgency operations in the challenging terrain of Jammu & Kashmir. Serving in such an environment required not only physical endurance but also constant vigilance, courage, and mental resilience—qualities that Sepoy Dharma Ram exemplified through his conduct and dedication. 

Kulgam Operation (J&K): 25 May 2015

The citation for the Shaurya Chakra awarded to him reads:

On 25 May 2015 Sepoy Dharma Ram was part of a patrol launched by Major Kobitirha Sanyal towards the village Kanjikul at the Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir. At 1300 hours the patrol came under a sudden heavy volume of fire from a nearby house. Sepoy Dharma Ram exhibited exemplary presence of mind to warn his team of the direction of fire and encountered the terrorist fearlessly in a direct firefight. He selflessly put himself in the face of terrorist fire and fought with nerves of steel to prevent any team member from getting injured.

During the firefight, the individual sustained two bullet wounds on his back and thigh. Unmindful and undeterred from the grave injury and although bleeding profusely the individual exhibited exemplary field craft to crawl to an appropriate position from where he brought accurate fire on the terrorist and injured him gravely. The terrorist was thus neutralized and identified as Lashkar-e-Toiba District Commander.

Sepoy Dharma Ram made the supreme sacrifice of his life in true traditions of the Indian Army. For this act of courage beyond the call of duty, dogged determination and conspicuous gallantry Sepoy Dharma Ram is awarded “SHAURYA CHAKRA” (POSTHUMOUSLY).

• The statue of Sepoy Dharma Ram Beniwal has been installed at the village Taratara in the Barmer district of Rajasthan in his honour.