Remembering the Special Forces officer who led from the front

On February 20, 2016, Captain Tushar Mahajan's unit was called to flush out terrorists who had targeted a Central Reserve Police Force convoy at Pampore in Kashmir's Pulwama district when they were returning from a search operation.

The courage and might of the Indian armed forces is unparalleled. The freedom we enjoy and the peace we cherish is the result of the sacrifices of hundreds who refused to let terror cast its shadow on the motherland. One such officer was Captain Tushar Mahajan of the elite 9 Para (Special Forces) unit.

Born on April 20, 1989, in a family of academicians, Captain Tushar Mahajan never had any doubts with regard to his life's ambition -- to join the Indian Army. His father wanted him to be an engineer, but he trained his way into the prestigious 9 Para (SF).

The 9 Para (SF) unit specialises in roles like hostage rescue, counter-terrorism, unconventional warfare, reconnaissance and counter-insurgency.

On February 20, 2016, Captain Tushar Mahajan's unit was called to flush out terrorists who had targeted a Central Reserve Police Force convoy at Pampore in Kashmir's Pulwama district when they were returning from a search operation. 

A total of 11 CRPF Jawans had been wounded in the attack following which the terrorists took refuge in the nearby Entrepreneurship Development Institute. After the police and security forces evacuated more than 100 people, including students and EDI employees, from the building before the 9 Para (SF) took over.

The assault team led by Captain Tushar Mahajan launched a late-night operation to neutralize the terrorists who were heavily armed with automatic weapons and grenades. He and his men stormed the building and sanitised a large portion of the building, forcing the terrorists to a corner. In the process, Captain Tushar Mahajan got hit by four bullets. He was seriously injured. 

He was evacuated to the 92 Base hospital in Srinagar where he succumbed to his injuries. 

Capt Tushar Mahajan's exceptional courage and fighting spirit ensured that the terrorists were swiftly eliminated moments later.

Capt Tushar Mahajan was honoured with Shaurya Chakra for his bravery, unyielding fighting spirit, and supreme sacrifice.

Flags of Honour remembers Braveheart Captain Tushar Mahajan on his 32nd birth anniversary.