Sepoy Ram Dayal

Sepoy Ram Dayal hailed from Siryani village in Alwar district of Rajasthan, a region known for its proud tradition of bravery and dedicated service to the nation. Growing up in an environment where military service was held in high regard, he developed a strong sense of patriotism and a desire to serve the country. Driven by this commitment, he joined the 13 Kumaon Battalion of the Kumaon Regiment—one of the Indian Army’s oldest and most decorated infantry regiments. Established in the 18th century, the Kumaon Regiment has earned a distinguished reputation for courage, discipline, and exemplary service in numerous military operations.

During his time in the Army, Sepoy Ram Dayal was known for his sincerity, discipline, and unwavering devotion to duty. He proudly wore the uniform of the Kumaon Regiment and upheld the traditions and values of his battalion. By 1962, his unit was stationed in Ambala and was later deployed to Jammu & Kashmir, reflecting the Army’s confidence in the battalion’s readiness and its important role in defending the nation during a period of growing tensions.

Battle of Rezang La (Indo-China War): 18 Nov 1962

In June 1962, Sepoy Ram Dayal’s unit—the 13 Kumaon Battalion—was relocated from Ambala to Baramulla in Jammu & Kashmir under the command of Lt Col H.S. Dhingra. As tensions with China intensified later that year, the battalion was directed in September to mobilise to Leh at short notice. Once there, it came under the operational control of the 114th Infantry Brigade, commanded by Brigadier T.N. Raina, who would later ascend to become the Chief of Army Staff. Tasked with defending a vast 400-kilometre stretch of the Indo-China border—including the strategically crucial Chushul sector—the brigade comprised several distinguished units: 14 J&K Militia, 7 J&K Militia, 5 Jat, 1/8 Gorkha Rifles, and 13 Kumaon. Sepoy Ram Dayal served in ‘C’ Company of 13 Kumaon, led by the legendary Major Shaitan Singh. As part of the brigade’s defensive strategy, ‘C’ Company was deployed at Rezang La. Meanwhile, ‘A’ Company, commanded by Maj G.N. Sinha, remained in reserve near the battalion headquarters at Chushul, and ‘B’ and ‘D’ Companies were stationed on Maggar Hill under Capt R.V. Jatar.

By 26 October 1962, Sepoy Ram Dayal and his fellow soldiers had established fortified positions at Rezang La in preparation for an anticipated Chinese assault. ‘C’ Company was strategically positioned along the forward slopes of Rezang La to maximise defensive advantage. Platoon 7, under Jemadar Surja Ram, held the northern flank; Platoon 8, led by Jemadar Hari Ram, was tasked with securing the pass; and Platoon 9, under Jemadar Ram Chander, defended the central post alongside Company Headquarters. A supporting mortar section, led by Naik Ram Kumar Yadav, was positioned on the reverse slope. The Chinese launched their offensive on 18 November 1962, timed with a broader assault at Sela in NEFA. A two-pronged attack targeted both Gurung Hill and ‘C’ Company’s position at Rezang La—a critical stronghold guarding the approach to the Chushul airfield via Dungti.

The initial attack began at 2:00 AM, with Chinese troops advancing toward Platoon 8. Their movement was detected by the Listening Post, prompting Naik Hukam Chand to alert Jemadar Hari Ram. A counteroffensive was swiftly ordered, and as the enemy closed within 50 yards, Indian troops opened fire, effectively repelling the first wave. At 4:00 AM, a second assault emerged from the direction of Platoon 7. Jemadar Surja Ram and Naik Sahi Ram mounted a resolute defence using rifles, grenades, and light machine guns, successfully thwarting the attack. The Chinese forces pressed on with further waves at 4:55 AM, 6:00 AM, and 6:30 AM. Sepoy Ram Dayal and his comrades fought with extraordinary tenacity, holding their positions despite being vastly outnumbered. By the sixth wave at 7:40 AM, the defenders were severely depleted. At 8:40 AM, the enemy deployed a 57 mm recoilless rifle in an exposed position along the ridge, signalling the start of the seventh and final assault at 9:00 AM.

Despite freezing temperatures, harsh terrain, and relentless bombardment, Sepoy Ram Dayal and the soldiers of ‘C’ Company displayed unyielding courage and determination. During the brutal engagement, Sepoy Ram Dayal was gravely wounded and ultimately made the supreme sacrifice. The battalion’s stand at Rezang La was pivotal—it not only delayed the Chinese advance but also played a crucial role in safeguarding the Chushul airfield. Following the ceasefire, Rezang La became a disputed no-man’s land. The bodies of Sepoy Ram Dayal and his fallen comrades lay buried beneath the snow until a local shepherd discovered them nearly three months later—a solemn reminder of their heroism and sacrifice.

Sepoy Ram Dayal is survived by his mother, Smt. Singari Devi.