Sowar Dhiraj Singh SC

Sowar Dhiraj Singh hailed from Hingutargarh village in Chandauli district of Uttar Pradesh and was born to Shri Madhukar Singh and Smt Lalita Devi. Born and raised in a family that held strong patriotic values and a deep commitment to national service, Swr Dhiraj Singh imbibed a sense of duty and dedication from an early age. He pursued his education diligently before deciding to follow the path of serving the nation by joining the Indian Army. On January 30, 2002, Sowar Dhiraj Singh was inducted into the 3rd Light Cavalry of the Armoured Corps, one of the most formidable and prestigious combat arms of the Indian Army. The Armoured Corps, known for its powerful tanks, armored vehicles, and strategic firepower, plays a vital role in both offensive and defensive operations. Within the 3rd Light Cavalry, Sowar Dhiraj Singh underwent rigorous training and quickly adapted to the demanding environment of armored warfare.

Demonstrating commitment, courage, and operational competence, he served with distinction in his parent regiment. Recognizing his capabilities, he was later deputed to serve with the 24 Rashtriya Rifles (RR), a specialized counter-insurgency force operating in the volatile region of Jammu and Kashmir. By the year 2006, Sowar Dhiraj Singh had accumulated significant operational experience and established himself as a competent and dependable soldier. 

Operation Rakshak (J&K): 02 May 2006

During 2006, Swr Dhiraj Singh’s unit 24 RR battalion was deployed in the Srinagar district of Jammu and Kashmir. The unit was engaged in operations against the militants regularly as part of "Operation Rakshak". On the night of 2nd May 2006, Sowar Dhiraj Singh was deployed as part of a close cordon operation around a house in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, where three heavily armed terrorists were reported to be hiding. The operation was part of a planned counter-terrorist mission aimed at neutralizing the threat and preventing any escape. At approximately 2315 hours, the operation took a critical turn when one of the terrorists, under the cover of heavy gunfire from his accomplices, attempted a suicidal breakthrough by trying to storm the house occupied by the cordon party. In the face of this sudden and aggressive attack, Sowar Dhiraj Singh exhibited exemplary composure and tactical awareness. Despite coming under intense enemy fire, he maintained his position and immediately alerted his comrades about the approaching terrorist, thereby thwarting the element of surprise. Moments later, another terrorist attempted to break the cordon and aid his fellow attacker. Realizing the grave threat this posed to the safety of his team and the integrity of the operation, Sowar Dhiraj Singh displayed remarkable courage and selflessness. Without regard for his own safety, he charged directly at the approaching terrorist, deliberately placing himself in the line of fire. In the ensuing exchange, he successfully neutralized the terrorist at close range but sustained serious injuries in the process.

Despite bleeding profusely, Sowar Dhiraj Singh refused to withdraw. Drawing upon his indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to duty, he once again confronted the third terrorist, who had now opened fire. With unflinching resolve and undaunted bravery, he faced the hail of bullets and engaged the terrorist in close combat. Taken by surprise by Sowar Dhiraj Singh’s fearless assault, the terrorist was unable to react in time and was shot dead by him. Having eliminated two of the three terrorists and safeguarding his fellow soldiers from imminent danger, Sowar Dhiraj Singh finally succumbed to the injuries he had sustained during the fierce encounter. Through his extraordinary gallantry, situational awareness, and supreme sacrifice, Sowar Dhiraj Singh not only ensured the success of the mission but also upheld the highest traditions of the Indian Army. Swr Dhiraj Singh was posthumously awarded the gallantry award, "Shaurya Chakra", for his commendable bravery and devotion to duty.

Swr Dhiraj Singh is survived by his mother, Smt Lalita Devi.

The citation for ‘Shaurya Chakra’ awarded to him reads:

Sowar Dhiraj Singh was part of a close cordon laid around a house in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, where three terrorists were hiding. At 2315 hours on 2nd May 2006, one terrorist attempted a suicide attack by trying to enter the house occupied by the cordon party, under heavy covering fire from the other terrorists. Despite coming under intense fire, Sowar Dhiraj Singh held his position and promptly alerted his team about the terrorist's attempt. Immediately afterward, another terrorist tried to break out in an effort to assist the intruder. Recognizing the imminent danger to his comrades, Sowar Dhiraj Singh charged at the approaching terrorist, advancing directly into the line of fire, and shot him dead. In the process, he sustained injuries. Despite bleeding profusely and completely disregarding his own wounds, he once again faced a hail of bullets from the second terrorist. Without any hesitation or fear, he engaged the attacker. The terrorist, caught off guard by his courage and swift action, was shot dead by Sowar Dhiraj Singh before he could react. Tragically, Sowar Dhiraj Singh later succumbed to his injuries.

Sowar Dhiraj Singh displayed conspicuous bravery, exceptional valour, and made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty while fighting terrorists.