Hony Capt Gwash Lal Sen

Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Gwash Lal Sen was born on 27 July 1945 in the picturesque town of Kishtwar, nestled in the mountains of Jammu & Kashmir. From an early age, he was inspired by a deep sense of patriotism and a desire to serve the nation. Driven by this calling, he joined the Indian Army in his youth, marking the beginning of a distinguished and committed military career. He was inducted into the 8th Battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (8 JAKLI), a unit known for its valour and rich traditions. Over the years, through sheer dedication and hard work, he rose through the ranks, evolving from a committed soldier into a dependable and highly respected Junior Commissioned Officer. During his service, he also completed his education, further enhancing his knowledge and leadership skills.

Throughout his career, Subedar Major Gwash Lal Sen served in various operational areas, gaining valuable experience in diverse terrains and under challenging conditions. His courage, resilience, and soldierly qualities earned him the admiration of his comrades and superiors alike. In his personal life, he married Ms. Geeta and was blessed with a loving family comprising two sons and one daughter. Balancing the demands of his military career with his responsibilities as a husband and father, he remained deeply devoted to his family.

Military Service and Operations

During the 1971 Indo-Pak War, Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Gwash Lal Sen displayed exemplary courage and leadership while serving in the Chamb sector of Jammu, one of the most fiercely contested battle zones of the war. Amidst intense combat situations, he stood resolute, leading his men with remarkable bravery and commitment. His fearless conduct and exceptional service were recognized with the award of the Sangram Medal and the Paschimi Star, honours bestowed upon soldiers who demonstrated outstanding gallantry and devotion to duty during the war. Following the war, he continued his journey of courageous service in one of the world’s most challenging operational environments — the Siachen Glacier. For two arduous years, he served with great distinction in the unforgiving terrain of the highest battlefield on earth. His involvement in Operation Meghdoot, the critical military operation aimed at securing India’s strategic hold over the glacier, exemplified his unwavering determination and resilience. In recognition of his meritorious service in these extremely high-altitude conditions, he was awarded the Uchch Tungata Padak, a mark of honour for those who brave such harsh environments in the line of duty.

Beyond these major operations, Honorary Capt Gwash Lal Sen was also actively engaged in counter-insurgency operations along the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir, an area fraught with continuous threats from across the border. After completing 36 years of distinguished military service, he retired from the Indian Army in 1995. Yet, his service to the nation did not end there. Returning to his native town of Kishtwar, he took up the role of Security Officer at the Kishtwar Hydroelectric Power Project, where he continued to serve the community with the same dedication and vigilance that marked his military career. Even in civilian life, Honorary Capt Gwash Lal Sen remained an inseparable part of the region’s security fabric. He worked closely with the Armed Forces and local security agencies, providing critical intelligence and assisting in the detection of terrorist hideouts. 

On 06 January 2006, Honorary Captain Gwash Lal Sen passed away at a hospital in Jammu, marking the end of a life lived in service of the nation. He was laid to rest with full honours in his beloved hometown of Kishtwar, where his legacy of bravery, humility, and integrity continues to inspire generations. He is fondly remembered not only for his gallantry on the battlefield but also for his relentless commitment to protecting his homeland, both in uniform and beyond. 

Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Gwash Lal Sen is survived by his wife, Smt Geeta Devi. His son Shri Chand Singh Sen works in the private sector in Jammu, while his younger son Shri Suraj Singh Sen served in the Indian Army and retired as a Havildar from 3 JAKLI. His daughter, Smt Neena Sen, is married to Shri Sandeep Parihar, who serves as an Inspector in the Jammu & Kashmir Police. The family continues to reside in Jammu & Kashmir, carrying forward his legacy of service and devotion to the nation.