Subedar Parbhat Gaur

Subedar Parbhat Gaur hailed from Pali Anandgarhi village in the Narsena area of Bulandshahr district, of Uttar Pradesh, and was born in 1977 to Shri S. P. Gaur. From a young age, he displayed a strong sense of purpose and discipline. After completing his schooling, he chose a path of service and sacrifice by joining the Indian Army in 1998, at just 21 years of age. He was recruited into the Parachute Regiment, one of the Indian Army’s most elite infantry regiments, celebrated for its daredevil para commandos and a proud legacy of bold, high-risk operations. Eager to serve at the cutting edge of military action, he later volunteered for Special Forces and earned his place in the prestigious 10 Para (Special Forces)—a unit raised in 1966 and renowned for its expertise in mountain warfare and counter-insurgency/counter-terrorism operations.

Beyond the uniform, Subedar Gaur built a loving family. After a few years of service, he married Ms. Manorama Gaur, and together they were blessed with two children—a daughter, Sonika, and a son, Khushal. Balancing the demands of a perilous profession with his devotion as a husband and father, he remained deeply committed to both his family and his duty. Throughout his distinguished career, Subedar Gaur took part in numerous critical operations with 10 Para (SF), where he repeatedly demonstrated exceptional courage, tactical skill, and unwavering dedication. Over the years, his consistent excellence was rewarded with steady promotions, culminating in 2024, when—after more than 27 years of exemplary service—he rose to the rank of Subedar, a position that reflected both his leadership and his enduring commitment to the nation. By this time, he had evolved into a battle-hardened soldier and a capable leader, admired for his discipline, determination, and professional competence.

Operation Guddar (J&K): 08 Sep 2025

In 2025, Subedar Parbhat Gaur was serving with the elite 10 Para (Special Forces)—a battalion celebrated for undertaking some of the most challenging and high-risk missions in the Indian Army. Renowned for their versatility and precision, the troops of 10 Para (SF) were at the forefront of counter-insurgency operations in Jammu & Kashmir, where militant activity remained a persistent threat to regional stability. Operating in a volatile environment that demanded exceptional skill and composure under pressure, the unit frequently conducted both independent raids and coordinated missions alongside other security forces. The battalion for various operations operated under the operational control of the XV Corps, popularly known as the Chinar Corps, headquartered in Srinagar. Tasked with overseeing all military operations across the Kashmir Valley, the Corps bore the responsibility of ensuring security and stability in a region marked by hostile terrain and persistent militant threats. For the soldiers of 10 Para (SF), life in the Area of Responsibility (AOR) was one of unrelenting vigilance. Every patrol, search, or mission carried the looming possibility of ambushes, infiltration attempts, and sudden firefights. As a seasoned and dependable Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), Subedar Gaur had already distinguished himself through numerous operations that showcased his courage, and unyielding commitment to duty. 

On 8 September 2025, security agencies received credible intelligence indicating that a group of heavily armed militants was hiding deep within the dense Guddar forest of Kulgam district in South Kashmir—a region notorious for its treacherous terrain and insurgent activity. Recognizing the urgency and potential threat posed by the militants, a meticulously planned joint operation, codenamed Operation Guddar, was swiftly launched. The assault force comprised Army units from 10 Para (SF) and 9 Rashtriya Rifles, with crucial support from the Jammu & Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to ensure comprehensive area domination and cordon control. As part of the assault group, Subedar Parbhat Gaur was entrusted with leading a team of 10 Para commandos into the heart of the operation. Their mission was to flush out the militants from their fortified positions within the forest—a dangerous task that demanded stealth, precise coordination, and fearless leadership. 

As the troops advanced into the heavily wooded terrain and initiated a cordon-and-search operation, the militants opened indiscriminate fire, triggering an intense gun battle. In the face of hostile fire and difficult terrain, Subedar Gaur displayed fearless leadership, rallying his men and inspiring them to hold their ground. Leading from the front, he maneuvered skillfully under fire, ensuring that his team maintained tactical advantage despite the enemy’s aggressive resistance. During the fierce exchange, the paratroopers succeeded in neutralizing two militants. In the close-quarters combat that followed, Subedar Gaur was grievously wounded by multiple gunshots. Even after sustaining critical injuries, he continued to engage the militants, refusing to back down and providing cover for his comrades until he collapsed. He was evacuated from the battlefield but later succumbed to his injuries, making the supreme sacrifice at the age of 48. In the same encounter, Lance Naik Narender Sindhu of 9 RR also laid down his life while fighting alongside his brothers-in-arms. Together, the two bravehearts upheld the highest traditions the Indian Army—fighting shoulder-to-shoulder with unflinching resolve and placing service before self. 

Subedar Parbhat Gaur is survived by his father Shri SP Gaur, wife Smt Manorama Gaur, daughter Ms Sonika, son Khushal and brothers Shri Rajul Gaur & Shri Ashwini Gaur.