India’s history is written with the courage and sacrifices of countless soldiers who put their nation before everything else. Among those shining stars is Naik Surya Prakash, a true son of Haryana, who made the supreme sacrifice for his country on 19 December 2001 during Operation Rakshak. His story is not just about bravery in uniform, but about undying devotion to the motherland.
Early Life and Journey into the Army
Naik Surya Prakash was born on 6 November 1975 in village Barwas, Bhiwani district of Haryana, into a proud Sheoran family known for its traditions of courage and honor. From an early age, discipline and patriotism guided his life.
At just 19, he chose to dedicate himself to the nation by joining the Indian Army on 26 December 1994. He was soon inducted into the elite 7 Para Battalion on 2 February 1995. Serving in the Parachute Regiment requires unmatched grit, fitness, and fearlessness—and Naik Surya Prakash proved himself worthy of wearing the coveted maroon beret.
Operation Rakshak: The Call of Duty
By September 2001, the 7 Para Battalion was deployed in Kupwara district of Jammu & Kashmir under the 15 Corps Zone, as part of Operation Rakshak—an operation aimed at countering terrorism and maintaining peace in the valley.
On 19 December 2001, Naik Surya Prakash was part of a Ghatak Platoon—the spearhead commando unit tasked with high-risk counter-insurgency operations. While conducting a search mission, his team reached a suspicious house where heavily armed terrorists were hiding.
As soon as they closed in, the terrorists opened indiscriminate fire.
Bravery Beyond Measure
In that critical moment, Naik Surya Prakash displayed indomitable courage. Without caring for his own safety, he charged ahead and launched a fierce counter-attack, protecting his comrades from the ambush.
Even after being critically injured, he refused to retreat. He continued firing relentlessly, ensuring his platoon could maintain their position and complete the mission. His bravery gave the terrorists a crushing reply and saved many lives.
Naik Surya Prakash fought till his last breath, laying down his life but not before ensuring the safety of his fellow soldiers. On that fateful day—19 December 2001—he attained martyrdom, sacrificing himself at the altar of duty.
Legacy of a Martyr
The story of Naik Surya Prakash is one of fearless courage, selflessness, and sacrifice. He put the nation before himself and proved the true spirit of a soldier.
For his family, he was a loving son of Barwas village’s Sheoran family. For his battalion, he was a dependable comrade. And for India, he will always be remembered as a braveheart who never gave up.
A Nation Salutes
Every time we breathe freely, it is because of men like Naik Surya Prakash who chose to protect us even at the cost of their own lives. His sacrifice will never be forgotten, and his name will remain etched in the annals of Indian Army’s glorious history.
Let us honor him not just by remembering his story, but by living lives worthy of the freedom he fought for.
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