"The warrior's look is like a thunderous rain-cloud's when, armed with mail, he seeks the lap of battle" - Rig Vedas.
THE GREAT YADAV WARRIORS
Yadavs are the successors of the Khatriya King "YADU". Yadu was a great warrior and renowed conqueror. He extended his small kingdom to a vast Emperor. His brave warrior family members carved out independent princepalities in different parts of India as Yadav Kings. In about 1500 BS at the time of the Mahabharata the Brave Yadav Warriors played a vital role in the Great Battle at Kurukhetra. The history of the Mahabharata Age was incomplete without the history of the Great Yadav warriors like Sri Krishna, Balaram, Satyaki, etc. The history of the Great Yadav Warrior Kings in ancient India was described in Chapter B. In 1757, the war of Plassy between Bengal's Nawab Siraj-ud-dullah & British East India Company forces, General Mohal Lal with his Yadav soldiers fought a great battle, but at last due to the conspiracy of Mirjafir Nawab lost the battle & India starts loosing her freedom & sovereignty. General Veeran Alagu Muthu Kone Yadav was the first to raise the banner of revolt against the British in 1759. In 1857 the, war of independence Rao Tula Ram with General Rao Gopal Deb, Pran Sukh Yadav & their associates made a grand contribution. King Veera Pandya Kattabomman was also the great Yadav warrior of South India who fought a great battle for independence in 1857. It is fact that from ancient times Yadav warriors, alwayas been in the forefront, made great sacrifice for the honour dignity & defence of their mother land. The history of the gallantary awardees Yadav martyrs and the gallant heroes (before & after independence) who have brought glory to the country and Yadav community have been summarized in this article.
I. THE GREAT YADAV WARRIORS (Before 19th Century)
Maharaja Mohan Lal (General of Bengal's Nawab Sirajuddullah, 1757) :
Mohan Lal was born in early eighteenth century in a Royal Lal family of Purnea. He became one of the powerful vassal king of Purnea, when Ali Vardi Khan took the chair of Deputy Governor of Bihar on 1733. He had one sister, two sons Srimanta Lal & Hukka Lal and one daughter. He was the close friend of Joinuddin Ahammed, son in law of Ali Vardi Khan. Joinuddin Ahammed took the charge as Deputy Governor of Bihar in 1741. Mohan Lal helped Joinuddin Ahammed during Maratha (Bargi) attacks. In April, 1748 after the death of Joinuddin Ahammed in a Afgan revolt, his son Sirajuddullah was appointed Nayeb Nazim of Bihar & Mohan Lal was appointed his advisor. In 1752 Ali Vardi Khan declared Sirajuddullah as his descendent, Raja Mohan Lal was appointed as General of Nawab & allotted a house at Kalandar Bag. Murshidabad. In 15th April 1756 , Sirajuddullah took the chair of Nawab of Bengal Bihar Orissa and appointed Raja Mohan Lal as Peskar. On 16th May, 1756 Raja Mohan Lal was sent to Purnea by Nawab Sirajuddullah to punish hostile Soukat Jangh. Soukat Jangh surrendered to Mohan Lal & handed over a letter accepting Sirajuddullah as a Nawab of Bengal, Bihar & Orissa. He played a great role in capturing Cossimbazar Fort on 24th may & Fort William, Calcutta on 20th June 1756. In September 1756 Soukat Jangh revolted and declared himself as independent Governor of Purnea as well as claimed as Nawab of Bengal, Bihar & Orissa. Receiving this news Nawab Sirajuddullah declared war against Soukat Jangh on 24th September, 1756 & proceeded with Raja Mohan Lal and his forces towards Purnea to teach Soukat Jangh. On 16th October 1756 there was a great war at Manihari between Soukat jangh & Sirajuddullah. The Nawab’s soldiers were commanded by Mohan Lal & the other side was commanded by Soukat Jangh himself. This war was famous as “Manihari war”. On that war Soukat Jangh was killed. Nawab Sirajuddullah captured Purnea & deputed Raja Mohan Lal as ‘Nayeb Nazim’ of Purnea & conferred him the title ‘Maha-Raja’. Col. Clive declared war against Nawab Sirajuddullah in June 1757. Nawab summoned Maha-Raja Mohan Lal from Purnea. Maha-Raja Mohan Lal handed over the charge of Nayeb Nazim to his elder son Raja Simant Lal & reached Murshidabad with his younger son Hukka Lal and well trained soldiers. On 23rd to 25 June, 1757 there was great battle at Plassey battle field. General Mir Madan, Nayey Singh Hazari, Captain of’artillery & his son in law Bahadur Ali Khan & another more or less 20 soldiers from Nawab’s side were killed in three days war. On that battle he proved himself as a great warrior though Nawab Sirajuddullah was defeated due to the treacherous Mirjaffar. On 25th June Mirjaffar ordered Mohan Lal to surrender. But the faithful soldiers advised him not to surrender, because they had a information that Miran, Son of Mirjaffar prepared a list of more than 50 persons whom they were killed. All the male members of Siraj family & well wisher friends including Maha-Raja Mohan Lal were on the list. His faithful soldiers arranged safe shelter for them in the nearby villages of the Plassy battle field. According to their choice Maha-Raja Mohan Lal & his younger son Hukka Lal took shelter in the underground room of Juranpur Kalibari (east side of River Bhagirathi) which was famous as “Satipith”. His few faithful soldiers took shelter in the Yadav dominated villages like Juranpur, Raghupur, Sujapur, Meteri, Khuturia and the nearby villages of Plassey Battle field. Maha-Raja Mohan Lal was greatful to those well wisher faithful soldiers who arranged shelter for them & save their lives. Hukka Lal married with a daughter of closed faithful soldier of Maha-Raja Mohan Lal. Hukka Lal had a son named Dukhi Chand Lal. In 1769 (1176 Bangabda) there was a famine in Bengal which was commonly known as Chiattar-ar-Mannantar. During this period East India Company collected tax from Nawab but the law and order was under the control of Nawab. The collected tax from Nawab were shifted from Murshidabad to Calcutta by boats through river Bhagarathi. Those boats were looted by the villagers of Nadia, Murshidabad, Burdwan & Hoogly those were living both the sides of river Bhagarathi by the leadership of Maharaja Mohan Lal and his son Hukka Lal and distributed among the famine affected villages . From that time this area were treated as terrorist area by the British. Hukka Lal died in cholera during cholera epidemic in 1770 when his son Dhukhi Chand Lal was only 10 years old. He & his younger son Hukka Lal trained the youths for war with traditional weapons (Lathi, Sarki, Ballam & Sword) & horse riding. After the death of Hukka Lal, he gradually shifted towards spiritualism & meditation. At that time Raja Ramkrishna son of Rani Bhabani reached at Juranpur Kalibari (Kalipith) for worship & Shab (Dead body ) Sadhana. By the influence of Sadhak Ramkrishna he engaged himself in austere worship of God. After taking Sannyas he was settled at Guptipara Radha Gobindo Math, Hooghly during Ninth Dandi Pitambarananda & later on he expired there.
Veeran Alagamuthu was the first Tamilian to raise the banner of revolt against the British (1759). He was the senathipathi (Commander of the Army) of King Ettappar of Illasai in Ettayapuram (Tamil Nadu). He was a fine soldier, an able commander and a great patriot. He was an organizer par excellence; and administrator of high order. King Ettappar was ‘vassal chief of the Nawab of Arcot. In late 1750s, the Nawab sold his rights over the Illasai Kingdom to the British East India Company. As a result, King Ettappar lost his freedom to the British. The arrangement, especially the loss of freedom, was not liked by Veeran Alagamuthu and he advised the Raja not to accept this humiliating arrangement. The Raja accepted Veeran’s suggestion. As a result, there ensued a fight with the British—a bloody, fierce fight, to be precise. Veeran Alagamuthu literally electrified his men to shock and shatter the enemy. His men fought bravely under his inspiring leadership. But being inferior to the British forces in men money and material, Veeran Alagamuthu lost the day. He was apprehended and shot dead. The blood of the first Tamil martyr in the cause of India’s freedom gave life to the long struggle for independence from the British yoke and inspiration to the numberless fighters for it. A huge statue of the great martyr built by the Tamil Nadu Government near Chennai Egmore Railway station, Chennai seems to be telling us even today : “No sacrifice is too great for the freedom of your country and honour of your people.”
II. THE GREAT YADAV WARRIORS (Before Independence)
Umrao Singh S/o Mohar Singh was born On 11 Nov 1920 in Village Palra now distt. Jhajjar (Haryana). He was illetrate. He was enroled in Jan 1938 in the regiment of artillery (22 Mountain Regt.) The offical history says : In the Kaladan Valley (Burma), on 15, December 1944, when he was in-charge of a gun in an advance section of his battery, he was subjected to heavy fire from 75 mm guns and mortars for 11/2 hour prior to being atttacked by two companies of Japanese Army. At the crucial moment, he was so inspired his detachment by his personal example and encourgement that they were able to beat off the attack. Three more attacks came. Though twice wounded by grenades, he beat off all these attacks, too, by resolute action and courage. Then came the final and most deadly attack. His gun was over run and ammunition expended. In that hopeless situation, Umrao seized a gun barrel and fought with the enemy in furious hand-to-hand fight. He was seen striking down several enemies in a desperate effort to save his gun, untill he was knocked unconscious. Six hours later, when a counter-attack restored the position, he was found in an exhausted state beside his gun and almost unrecognizable with seven severe wounds and ten dead enemies around him. By his personal example and magnificent bravery, Hav. Umrao Singh set a supreme example of gallantry and devotion to duty. He was awarded Victoria Cross, the highest gallantry award of the British Empire. Retired as Subedar Major (Hony. Captain), Umrao Singh passed away on 11 Nov. 2005 at his village.
Sub. Maj. Chhaju Ram hailed from vill. Kanina, Dist. Mahendergarh (Haryana). He showed exceptional courage and bellicosity while fighting the Turkish Army in the Middle in 1920. He got INDIAN ORDER OF MERIT, Second Class, on 4 July, 1920.
SUBEDAR BUDH RAM. IOM (HYDERABAD REGT.)
Sub. Budh Ram belonged to vill. Kanina, Dist. Mahendergarh (Haryana). He showed conspicuous gallantry while fighting the Turkish Army in the Middle East. He got INDIAN ORDER OF MERIT, Second Class, in 1920 for this brave action.
He belonged to Vill. Dahina, Dist. Rewari (Haryana). He Showed unsurpassable bravery in the presence of the enemy in the Arakan Sector during the Second world War (1940) and got INDIAN ORDER OF MERIT, First GJass.
MAJOR UMRAO SINGH. IDSM (19 HYDERABAD REGT.)
Born on 1 December 1940 in Vill. Kosli Dist. Rewari (Haryana). Major Umrao Singh joined Army after passing his Matric Examination from Kosli, on 10 September 1917. He showed conspicuous gallantry in a ferocious action against the insurgent tribesmen in the NWFP in 1940 while commanding an Ahir Comparny of the 19 Hyderabad Regt. He was awarded IDSM first and then MILITARYCROSS (MC) on 9 December 1940.
Shiv Sahai, ‘a brave soldier’, belonged to Vill. Kosli, Dist. Rewari (Haryana). He joined the Indian Artillery (22 Mountain Regt.) and rendered distinguished service in two World Wars. He received ample recogintion and was awarded the SARDAR BAHaDUR and ORDER OF BRITISH INDIA medals.
HAVALDAR DEVA RAM. IDSM (19 HYDERABAD REGT.)
He belonged to Vill. Misri, Dist. Bhiwani (Haryana). He showed conspicious courage and bravery while fighting the ferocious tribesmen in the NWFP, under the command of Maj. Umrao Singh, in 1940. For this commendable action, he was awarded INDIAN DISTINGUISHED SERVED MEDAL on 9 December 1940.
Rao Tula Ram (1825-1863), a scion of the historic ruling house of Rewari (Haryana), is one of the greatest freedom fighters of India. He not only obliterated all vestiges of British rule from Ahirwal but also helped the revolutionaries doing this work elsewhere, too, in Delhi, in Rajasthan, in Madhya Pradesh and so forth. The story of this great son of Ahirwal is that of heroism, valour, patriotism and self-sacrifice of the great order. With four to five thousand Ahirs, Jats, Rajputs and Ranghars, he struggled hard against the superior British forces in 1857. He lost the battle as had done even those who commanded far greater and stronger resources and armies. But, of all the fighters of 1857, Tula Ram is the solitary example of pursuing the same goal until his last breath. He was the first Indian to plan the overthrow of British Imperialism with foreign help from Iran, Afghanistan and Russia when the great revlot petered out.
Nihal Singh belonged to Vill. Kosli, Dist. Rewari (Haryana). He joined Army in prime of his youth and showed conpicuous gallantry in the Iraq Sector during the First World War. As a result, he got the INDIAN DISTINGUISHED SERVICE MEDAL on 1 June, 1918.
JEMADAR BHAIRON SINGH. IDSM (RUSSEL’S INFANTRY)
Bhairon Singh was a resident of Vill. Kannia, Dist. Mahendergarh (Haryana). He showed exemplary courage and devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy in the Persian Gulf during the First World War. He was awarrded INDIAN DISTINGUISHED SERVICE MEDAL in 1918.
Sub. Major Surat Singh came from Vill. Mandola Dist. Rewari (Haryana). He showed enviable courage and bravery at the Arakan Front in Kaladan Valley in the face of the enemy during the Second World War. He was awarded MILITARY CROSS in recognition of his extraordinary gallantry and brave action.
Sub. Maj. Bhawani Singh belonged to Vill. Kanina, Dist. Mahendergarh (Haryana). He showed exemplary courage and bravery in the face of the enemy in the Black Sea in 1920. He was awarded INDIAN DISTINGUISHED SERVICE MEDAL on 17 July, 1920. He was also mentioned in DESPATCHED twice.
He hailed form Vill. Ghiloth, Tehsil Behror, Dist. Alwar (Rajasthan). He showed exemplary courage and devotion to duty during the disastrous Quetta Eathquake in 1935 for which he was awarded GEORGE CROSS on 30 May, 1935. Later on, he was transferred to the 8/19 Hyderabad regiment. He showed conspicuous gallantry in the presence of the enemy ast the Arakan Front during the Second World War and was awarded INDIAN ORDER OF MERIT for his outstanding bravery.
He belonged to Vill. Mohiuddinpur, dist. Rewari (Haryana). He showed conspicuous bravery during the Second World War for which he was awared INDIAN DISTINGUISHED SERVICE MEDAL. He was also mentioned in DESPATCHES.
NAIK RAGHUNATH SINGH. MC (HYDERABAD REGT.)
He hailed from Vill. Jaitpur, Dist/ Rewari (Haryana). He showed great courage and chivalry in the presence of the enemy during the Second World War and won the MILITARY CROSS.
NAIK DHANI RAM IDSM (19 HYDERABAD REGT.)
He belonged to vill. Dinodh, Dist.. Bhiwani (Haryana). He showed conspicuous courage and bravery while fighting the ferocious tribesmen in the NWFP, under the command of Maj. Umrao Singh, in 1940. For this commendable action, he was awarded INDIAN DISTINGUISHED SERVICE MEDAL on 9 December 1940.
III. The great Yadav Warriors in Indipendent India (1947-2007)
After independence Government of India honoured their brave soldiers by different types of awards like Param Vir Chakra, Mahavir Chakra, Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra etc. Those great Yadav warriors received the awards & created the glorious history, are sumarized in this chapter. “No sacrifice is too great for the freedom of your country and honour of your people.”
PARAM VIR CHAKRA
Major Shaitan Singh commanding a company of an infantry battalion deployed at Razangala in the Chushui Sector at a height of about 17,000 feet. The locality was isolated from the main defended sector and consisted of five platoon positions. On 18 November 1962, the Chinese the company position to heavy artillery, mortar and small arms fire and in beat back the enemy attack. During the action, Shaitan Singh dominated the scene of operations and moved at personal risk from one platoon post to another sustaining the morale of his hard-pressed posts, While doing so he was seriously wounded but continued to encourage and his men who, following his example, fought gallantly and inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy. For every man lost by us, the enemy lost four to five. When Major Shaitan Singh fell by wounds in his arms and abdomen, his men tried to evacuate him but came under heavy machine gunfire. Major Shaitan Singh ordered his men to leave him to his in order to their lives,Major Shaitan Singh’s supreme courage, leadership and exemplary devotion to duty inspired his company to fight almost to the last man, (Birth of Singh is name him as Shaitan Garh.) He was Yadav (Bhati Rajput).
MAHAVIR CHAKRA
Rai Singh, s/o Sh. Ganpat Singh, was born on 17 March 1925 at Kosli (Rewari). After passing his I.A. Special Exam from King George’s School at Jullundur, he got commission in the Army. Having had his special training at the Army Staff College, Camberey, England, he served the I Army with distinction. In August 1967, while he was commanding a unit at the border outpost at Nathu La, the Chinese attacked the outpost with great strength. He not only made his men fight the enemy bravely but fought the enemy himself courageously and right heroically, himself. There were other attacks. He repulsed them all bravely. On 11 September 1967, he was hit in stomach and collapsed on the spot. A little while later, he was hit in the head by a splinter. After some time, when he rgained consciousness, he refused to be moved, and unmindful of his serious wounds, he continued to give directions and exhotted his men to keep on fighting. An incredible feat indeed! Brig. Rai Singh got Maha Vir Charkra for conspicuous gallantry and leadership of a high order. He is leading a retired life at Gurgaon (Haryana).
Chaman Singh Yadav, s/o Sh. Nand Kishore, was born in Vill. Gokulgarh (Rewari) on June 1, 1945. After passingh Matriculation Examination from B.S. Ahir High School, Rewari in 1960, he joined the Indian Navy in June 1961. A first-rate Seaman, Chaman Singh showed conspicous gallantry and devotion to duty, during the 1971 War with Pakistan as follows: Ldg Seaman Chaman Singh Yadav was member of a Ship which attacked enemy target in the Mongla and Khulna area (8-11 Dec. 1971). While operating off Khulna his boat was sunk and he was wounded. In spite of injuries, and unmindful of his personal safety, he went to the rescue of hismen and escored them to the his wounds, he rushed to the enemy exposing himself to the enemy fire, there by making it possible for his ment ot escape from being captured by the enemy. Chaman Singh was eventurally overpowered and taken prisoner by the enemy. On the liberation of Bangladesh he was recovered and admitted to hospital where he lived till he became all right. He was awarded Maha Vir Chakra for this daring deed of great courage and devotion to duty. He is enjoying a quiet, retired life now.
VIR CHAKRA
Ajit Singh, s/o Sh. Dalip Singh, was born on 7 January 1959 in a small Vill. Punsika, Dist. Rewari (Haryana). He joined Army on 6 July 1972.Hav. Ajit Singh was one of the squad commanders of 3 troops of Alfa Assault Team, 10 Para Commando. (Sri Lanka) on 28 August, 1989, Number 3 Troop located at alampil was tasked to carry out a searchand-destroy mission along the road Alampil-Mullaitivu. Hav. Ajit Singh’s squad with a rocket launcher was deployed on the flank to cover the movement of the Troop. As soon as the Troop resumed it move, it came under fire of small arms and rockets.Hav. Ajit Singh realising that the Troop had been ambushed by the militants, returned the fire. kHowever, assessing that the strength and position of the miitants was fro midable, he decided to encircle them. He deployed his squad on the flank and brought down continuous and effective fire on the millitants. This threat on the flank diverted the attention of the millitants and reduced the weight of fire on the remainder of the Troop. In the exchange of fire, two of his men handling rocket launcher became ineffective. Hav. Ajit Singh himself picked up the rocket laulncher and commenced firing. In the process he also received a bullet in the chest and died on the spot. He was awarded Vir Chakra for bravery and devotion to duty.
Bhagwan Singh, s/o Sh. Sheotaj Singh was born on 24 October 1912 at Vill. Shahadat Nagar, Dist. Rewari. He joined the Army (22 Mountain Regt.) on 15 June 1942. Maj. Bhagwan Singh was the commander of a mountain battery on Naushera front, Jammu Area. The battery had taken part in every battle that had been fought in Naushera. On 1 February 1948, he volunteered to be the Forward Observation Officer with one of the leading battalions. This battalion met stiff opposition from the enemy. The attack was nearly, coming to a halt when this officer’s sheer determination and outstanding courage turned the tables. Exposing himself to enemy mortar shells falling all around him, he continued directing the fire of his guns and thus was instrumental in silencing two encemy machine guns which were abstructing the adavance of out troops. Maj. Bhagwan Singh’s outstanding leadership and cool courage was great inspiration to the troops and greatly contributed to the capture of the objective. He was awarded Vir Chakra for tthis act of exceptional bravery. He retired as Lieut. Colonel.
Dhansi Ram,, s/o Sh. Ranjit Singh, Vill. Bihali, Dist. Mahendergarh (Haryana). was born on 1 April 1923. He joined the Army on 1 April 1942. On 20 April, 1948, L/NK. Dhansi Ram was commanding a section of his platoon which was assigned to defend a post near the river Jhelum. When the platoon was taking its position, the enemy began heavy firing. As the section led by Dhansi Ram was leading, its secon rifleman was injured. Dhansi Ram with his two remaining riflemen crawled over to the enemy’s position and from a distance of two yards lobbed two hand grenades into the enemy’s pit, killing three of enemy’s soldiers. They also killed two other enemy soldieers running away with their bayonets. NK. Dhansi Ram displayed exemplary courage and inspiring leadership. He recived Vir Chakra for this great service to the nat,on on 20 April 1948
Yogender Singh yadav, s/o Sh. Ram Karan Singh, was born in a small vill. Called Ahir Majra, Dist., Bulandshahar(UP). After passing the Ma-triculation Examination, he joined the Indian Army (18 Grenadiers) on 27 Dec 1986. In the kargil War, 1999, he showed exceptional bravery and courage in the presence of the enemy. The official records paint it thus: Gdr. Yogender Singh Yadav, s/o Sh. Ram Karan Singh was part of the leading team of Ghatak Platoon tasked to capture Tiger Hill Top on the night I steep, snow-bound and rockey. He volunteered to be in the lead and fixed rope for his team to climb up, unmindful of the risk involved. The enemy, on seeing his team approaching the area top, opened intense automatic, grenade, rocket and artillery fire. His team commander and two of his colleagues fell to murderous enemy fire. The further advance of Ghatak Platoon was stalled. Knowing the gravity of the situation, he crawled up to the enemy position to silence it, but sustained multiple bullets, he continued towards the enemy positions and lobbed grenades; and fired from his weapon, killing four enemy soldiers in close combat and silenced the automatic fire. During the charge, he again sustained multiple bullet injuries but refused to be evacuted even in critical condition. Inspired by his gallant act, the rest of the Ghatak Platoon charged on to the other positions, and captured Tiger Hill Top, a National Objective. Gdr. Yogender Singh Yadav, thus, displayed most conspicuous courage, indomitable sprit, grit and determination under extreme difficult situation beyond call of duty. He was awarded the highest honour that the country gives to its war heroes- the Param Vir Chakra -on 3 July 1992.
Babu Bhan Yadav, s/o Maj. Bhagwan Singh, MBE, Vill. Bharawas, Dist. Rewari (Haryana) was born on 14 September 1928. He passed his B.Sc. from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi in 1947 and got his commission in the Navy at the age of 23. Commodore B.B. Yadav Showed exceptional bravery and heroism during the Indo-Pak War, 1971 as follows: Comdr B.B. Yadav was the Squadron Commander of the division of ship which formed a part of the Task Group of the Western Fleet. He was ordered to carry out an offensive sweep on the enemy coast off Karachi (during the Indo-Pak War, 1971). Not with standing the threat of enemy air, surface and sub-marine attack, officer led his Division of ships deep into the enemy waters and encountered two groups of large enemy warships. Despite heavy gunfire from the enemy destroyers and at great risk to his ship and personnel Comdr. Yadav led his squadron towards the enemy in a swift and determined attack. As a result, two enemy Destroyers and one Mine Sweeper were sunk. In this operation, Comdr. B.B. Yadav displayed conspicuous gallantry and leadership of a high order in the best traditions of the Indian Navy. He was awarded Maha Vir Chakra for this act of exceptional bravery and devotion to duty on 5 December 1971.
Ami Lai, s/o Rao Mohar Singh, was born on 1 June 1945 at Goshgarh, Dist. Gurgaon (Haryana). He joined Army on 1 June 1945. On 1 February, 1948 while on a fighting patrol to village called Barari Pura in Kashmir, the enemy, who was hiding in the houses and in the nullah round the village, suddenly threw grenades and opened rifle fire on the Section. Sepoy Ami Lai was hit by a rifle bullet on his chest, as a result of which he fell down. His section commander and other two sepoys who werewith him were also wounded by enemy fire and rendades. The enemy, on seeing that they had succeeded in hitting all the leading four men, advanced to charge the remainder of the Section with their fixed bayonets. No sooner Sep. Ami Lai, who was semi-unconscious, saw the enemy advancing towards his Section, than he picked up his rifle and started engaging them, killing two of them and wounding other three. This youg soldier who joined the Battalion only a month back, with a severe bullet wound on chest, in thus engaging the enemy, showed great courage and determinaton. Sep. Ami Lai was awarded Vir Chakra for this incedible act of bravery.
Angna Ram, s/o Sh. Ghisa Ram Yadav, Vill. Khera, Dist, mahendergarh (Haryana), was born on 2 January 1923. He never went to any school an joined the indian Army (3 Para) while still in his teens on 24 October 1940. On the night of 7 November, 1948, Hav. Angna Ram was leading his platoon in J & K which came under heavy automatic and machine gun fire. The enemy made liberal use of hand grenades when the Platoon came to grips with them. Though wounded by a grenade splinter, Hav. Angna Ram with four Jawans led a bayonet charge, killed two enemieson the sopt and finally captured the position.But for his exemplary courage, devotion to duty and sparking leadership, the feature could not have been captured so early and the Battalion could not have reached their main objetive easily. He was given Vir Chakra for his bravery and chivalry.
Chandraket Prasad, s/o Shri R.G. Yadav, Vill. kazilpur, Dist. Saran (Bihar), was bnorn on 15 July 1947. He joined the Indian Army on 15 July 1965. During an operation against Pakistan in December 1971, L/NK Chandraket Prasad Yadav was the commander of a rocket launcher detachment of a battalion of Bihar Regiment which was deployed in the Eastern Sector. At about 1215 hours on 16 December, an enemy convoy consisting of approximately 10 lorries loaded with ammunition and escorted by medium machine guns mounted on vehicles and two chaffee tanks tried to break through the roadblock established by the battalion. One of the enemy tanks engaged a company and the battalion headquarters. L/NK. Yadav took upon himself the task of detroying the tank which was causing casualties to our troops. He closed in and destroyed it with his rocket launcher. He was awarded Vir Chakra on 14 January 1972.
Nk. Ganesh Prasad Yadav, hailling from Bihar, was awarded Vir Chakra (P) on 29 March 1999. He belong to C. Coy, 1 Bihar, which was assigned the task of capturing Pt. 4268, a well fortified enemy post at an altitude of 14000 feeet in Batalik Sub-Sector of Kargil on 28 May 1999 during Operation Vijay. Nk. Yadav was at the forefront. Theree was heavy firing of all types. The enemy was in strength. Yet Nk. Yadav, unmindfull of danger to his life and safety, continued his march towards the destination. He killed two mercenaries. He was seriously wounded in the hip. Yet he limped ahead and continued fighting untill he collapsed. Nk. Ganesh Prasad Yadav displayed most consipuous gallantry in the face of enemy and made supreme sacrifice for the nation. He was awarded Vir Chakra on 29 May, 1999.
Gulab singh, s/o Shri Ram Singh, was born on 1 January, 1935 at Vill. Manethi, Dist. Mahendergarh (Haryana). He joined the Army on 18 July 1953. On 18 November 1962, the Chinese forces attacked the Indian post at Rezanga La, with heavy artillery and mortar fire and established a machine gun position near the post. The gun wrrought havoc. Naik Gulab Singh charged this position with a handful of men and almost reached it when he was hit by a burst of enemy machine gun fire. He was killed on the spot. In this action, Naik Gulab Singh displayed examplary courage and devotion to duty of the highest order. He was awarded Vir Chakra on 18 November 1962.
Hari Ram, s/o Sh. Ghisa Ram, belonged to Vill. Santor, Dist. Jhunhjunu (Rajasthan). He joined the Army on 16 February 1948. On 18 November 1962, the Chinese atacked the Rezang La, Company post with heanvy artillery and mortar fire. The defending Company was greatly out numbered but continued to fight very gallantly and infiicted heavy causalities on the enemy. Jem. Hari Ram set a fine example by his action, bravery and mature leadership. He continued to rally and encourage his ment in spite of heavy firing and sure death and displyed great courage. He was awardVir Chakra for bravery and devotion to duty of a high order on 18 November 1962.
Hoshiar Singh, s/o RaoMaman Singh,Vill Dahina, Dist. Rewari (Haryana), he was born on 7 February 1927. He joined Indian Army 7 February 1943. On 25 January, 1948 Nk. Hoshiar Singh Yadav was in command of a section of his company which was defending a hill picquet in J & K. The enemy opened heavy fire at night and attacked the picquet in large numbers. Nk. Hoshiar Singh, though seriously wounded, went on repulsing the enemy’s attack untill the situation came under full control. During this operation, he displayed exceptional bravery in the face of heavy odds. He got Vir Chakra on 25 July 1948.
Ishwar Singh, s/o Sadhu Ram, Vill. Gudana, Dist. Bhiwani (Haryana), was born on 21 December 1922. He joined Indian Army on 21 December 1940. Hav. Ishwar Singh was given the job of forward observation Officer in support of different Batttalions of 50 Para Brigade in the Battle of Jhangar. He started from Naushera on 11March 1948, with 3 Rajputs, to the objective the same day. On 12 March 1948, 3 Rajputs were to attack the objective. It was still raining very heavily. This N.C.O. supported the attack with the freatest efficiency under very tiring conditions and the objective was captured. On 13 March, 1948 Noti Dhar was our objective. 2/2 Punjab was doing the job. Again Hav. Ishwar Singh was supporting the attack. On that day, too, the weather was awfully bad and observation was very difficult. Still Hav. Ishwar Singh did his duty extremely well, All this time he was under heavy enemy fire. His quick action and appreciation resulted in heavy casualties to the enemy. On 15 March, the enemy opened fire with automatics from the area of Pir Hill feature. Hav. Ishwar Singh, knowing his life was in danger, engaged the enemy LMGs and MMGs and silenced them.On 17 March, after the attack on the feature, he engaged the fleeing enemy very sucessfully. On 18 March, during the advance to Jhangar Dharamshala Hav. Ishwar Singh again very successfully engaged the enemy and neutralised his fire. Throughout the operation, Hav. Ishwar Singh showed extraordinary stamina and acted very bravely. He did his dutly extremely well under heavy odds with complete disregard for his personal safety and set an example to others. He was awarded Vir Chakra on 15 March 1948.
Sub. Nand Kishore, s/o Sh. Tirkha Ram, was born on 25 June 1920 in village Dhawana, Dist. Rewari. He was a fine player of hockey and basketball. He joined the Indian Army on 1 July 1939. On 11 October 1965, the enemy overran one of our platoon localities, a feature of tactical importance. Sub. Nand Kishore who was the senior JCO of his company led a counter-attack which was partially successful. He, however, was wounded and evacuated to the Regiment Aid Centre. Soon he rejoined his Company, borrowed a pistol from one of the wounded signallers and rallied his men together. He fired tow rockets at an enemy BrowningMachine Gun and a Bren LightMachine Gun which were holding up the assault and destroyed the latter and its crew. Then, pistol in hand, he led a charge on the enemy position. Soon afterward, he was hit in the head and chest and was killed. he best tradition of Army and Ahirwal and was awarded Vir Chakra for this great act of bravery on 11 October 1965.
Nand Ram, s/o. Sh. Dilsukh Ram, Vill. Kahari, Dist. Rewari (Haryana), was born on 9 march 1937. He joined Indian Army jon 19 March 1957. ‘A’Companywas given the task of capturing area College which was a part of the enemy’s defence at Bhubunganari village.During the assault the Companywas held up by heavy MMG fire form a strong building called CO’s Hut. This building was reinforced with sand bags and it looked practically impregnable. This NCO volunteered to accompany the Company Commander alongwith 6-7 other ranks to silence the enemy in CO’s Hut. He took a great risk when he crept up to the building in the open. He hurled a grenade in one of the rooms and finished off the enemy there. Then alongwith Cdr. Sheo. Raj Singh he went upto the top storey, unmindful of the easy target he was making for the enemy. He lobbed a grendade again it to a room on the upper storey and killed a Razakar who had been effectively holding up Company’s advance. Throughtout the action, the NCO reamined calm and determined which, combined with his courage, enabled him to rescue his Company. He was awarded Vir Chakra for this act of bravery.
Ram Chander, s/o Sh. Tirkha Ram, Vill Mandola, Dist. Rewari (Haryana), was born on 11 February 1929. He joined army on 11 February 1948. On 18 November 1962, his company was posted at Rezang La in Ladhakh. The Chinese troops, who were in overwhelming strength, attacked them in successive waves. Jem. RamChander fought gallantry and, unmindful of death, gave the enemy the fight which they had never seen. They commended the bravery of jemadar Ram Chander and his men. He fought and gave his life with war cry ‘Dada Krishan Ki Jai’ on his lips. He was awarded Vir Chakra for his personal bravery and quality of high leadership on 18 November 1962.
Hira Lai, s/o Rao Man Singh, Vill. Mundhalia, Dist. Rewari (Haryana) was born on 22 April 1923. He joined the Indian Army on 22 April 1940. On 1 February, 1948, Nk. Hira Lai was commanding a section of the leading platoon around village Barari Pura, Kashmir, His platoon was entrusted with the job of making the village free from enemy intruders. Having come to know the army’s advancement, the enemy took position in the houses and when the section led by Nk. Hira Lai reached the village, they were attacked by rifle and automatic machine gun fires. All his men got seriously wounded in the operation. He also received an injury but he followed the enemy and killed eight of them. Other men of the enemy side fled away. In thisway, he displayed high presence ofmind and exemplary courage and leadership during this operation. He got Vir Chakra on 7 November 1947.
Hukam Chand, s/o Rao Hari Singh, was born on 7 November, 1933 in an Ahir farmer’s family of village Nakhrola,Dist.Gugaon (Haryana).He joinedIndianArmy on 7 November 1952. On 18 November, 1962, his company was posted at Rezanga La, in Ladhakh. The Chinese troops, who were in over whelming strength attacked in successive waves. Their company CommanderMaj Shaitanwas seriously wounded. He ordered HukamChand to withdraw form the post. Nk. Hukam chand with another soldier came under heavy machine gun fire. Nk. HukamChand gallantly remained with his leader and fought he fell to the bullets of enemy. He was awarded Vir Chakra on 18 November 1962.
J.B.S. Yadav, s/o Maj. Jai Narayan Singh Yadav, Vill. Achina, Dist. Bhiwani (Haryana), was born on 28 February 1945. He was commissioned into the Indian Army on 2 August 1964. He retired as Lieut. General and Deputy Chief of the Army Staff. On 12 December 1971,Maj. Jai Bhagwan SinghYadav, commanding a company of 11 Gorkha Rifles, was ordered to establish a roadblock behind the enemy defences. The company after crossing the Ichamati River reached the location of the roadblock. During the reconnaissance, an enemy telephone line was located and it gave the location of the enemy battalion headquarters and captured the battalion commander and other officer. The enemy blocked all the routes of escape to isolate this company in a bid to rescue their commanding officer. Maj.Yadav held on. The stiff resistance by his company had created a wedge in the enemy defences permitting our troops to break through. The enemy completely confused and unnerved and suffering heavily in men and material surrendered to our forces in large numbers. In this action, Maj. Yadav displayed initiative, gallantry, determination and leadership of a high order. For this he was awarded Vir Chakra on 12 December 1971.
NK. (1361844)KAUSHALYADAV.VrC { POSTHOMOUS, 9 PARA (SF) }
Nk. KaushalYadav was awarded Vir Chakra, conpicuous gallantry and dedication to duty (posthumously) on 25 July 1999. Nk. Kaushal Yadav was the squad commander of a Team which was tasked to capture Zulu Top on 25 July 1999 during Operation Vijay. The objective was at a height of 5100 meters with no approaches from own side. The sheer verical slopes made the cliff assault extremely difficult, which was further compounded by minus 15 degree temperature and extensive enemy mine fields. Under such adverse conditions, Nk. KaushalYadav’s squad was tasked to gain a foothold on top of Zulu Top from the western approach. Using his extraordianry mountaineering skills, he led his squad and opened a route for his comrades to follow. Nk. Kaushal Yadav’s squad was on Zulu Top complex by 05:00 hours when from a rocky knob north of Zulu Top complex his squad carne came under heavy automatic fire. Nk. Kaushal Yadav realizing that the enemy was trying to evict him from his foothold, personally led his squad from the front for assauliting the well-entrenched enemy. On reaching the enemy fire position, he leapt forward towards the enemy with total disregard to his own safety lobbing greades into their and in a deadly exchange of fire at close quarters, Nk. Kaushal Yadav personally killed five enemy soldiers. In the process he too was grieviously wounded and made the supreme sacrifice, but his action ensured the capture of Zulu Top. Nk. Kaushal Yadav displayed courage, bravery, valour of the highest order and won Vir Chakra.
WG.CDR (12032F)KRISHNAKUMARYADAV.VrC VIR CHAKRA(P) (INDIANAIR FORCE)
Krishna Kumar, s/o Sh. RamYadav, was commissioned in the IAF on 21 June 1969. A brilliant officer, he showed conpicuous gallantry while serving in Sri Lanka in 1988. On the night of 9 November, Wg. Cdr. Yadav was Task Commander in Jaffna performing an emergent mission in which 180 commandos of a Para Bn. were to be dropped at a strategic place to neutralise a stronghold of the militants. The officer made prudent assessment of the situation, took prompt action and did his work. In the process however his aircraft was shot. A brave and dedicated leader, Wg. Cdr. Yadav took control of his aircraft and returned the helicopter and his men safely to base. Undetered by operational hazards and the fierce ground fire, he led two sorties and dropped all 180 trops at the desired place. Wg. Cdr. Yadav lost his life but did his duty gallantly, bravery and courageously. He was awarded Vir Chakra for this.
Nanji Ram, s/o Sh. H.S. Yadav, vill. Shaharpur, was born on 5 March 1931. He joined Army on 1 April 1961. Nanji Ram was second in command of a party detailed to lay an ambush in the Eastern Sector. On 12 Sept. 1971, three enemy boats were sighted. Subedar Nanji Ramengaged the boats with accurate and effective fire and destroyed them. One officer and 9 other ranks of the enemy were killed in this ambush. In this operation, Subedar Nanji Ramdisplayed gallantry, professional skill, and leadership of a high order. He was awarded with Vir Chakra for this act of bravery.
Ram Kumar, s/o Rao Gulab Singh Vill. Gothra, Dist. Rewari (Haryana), was born on 24 August 1929. He joined Indian Army on 24 February 1950 after passing his Matriculation Examination from Ahir School, Rewari. On 18 November 1962 Nk. Ram Kumar, who was second in command of a mortar section at Rezang La, Ladakh, brought down very accurate mortar fire on the invading Chinese forces. The other members of his company were killed or wounded one by one, but he continued to fire the mortar, using only primaries as the enemy closed in. His mortars caused havoc among the enemy. Nk. Ram Kumar was wounded a number of times and became unconscious but rejoined the battalion when he regained consciousness. In this action Nk. Ram Kumar displayed great courage and devotion to duty. He was awarded Vir Chakra on 18 November 1962. Late Ram kumar VrC retired as Subedar (Hony. Capt.).
Sardar Singh, s/o Rao Ram Narain Singh, Vill. Achina, Dist. Bhiwani (Haryana), was born on 12 November 1922. He joined Army on 12 November 1940. On 21 November, 1947, in Kashmir the enemy ambushed a convoy consisting of 1st Para, along Uri-Poonch Road in J&K. Nk. Sardar Singh was travelling in the 2nd vehicle which was heavily sprayed with automatic rifles by the enemy. Nk. Sardar Singh immediately debussed and ordered his section to come down and take position along the road with the platoon escorting the convoy. While debussing, he was wounded by an enemy bullet on his left leg. yet he fought continously. Due to loss of blood, he died shouting ‘Hindustan Zindabad’. Nk. Sardar Singh’s behaviour on the field was a stimulant to themorale of his platoon and an example of great bravery and sacrifice. He was awarded Vir Chakra on 21 November 1947.
Ram Kumar, s/o Sh. Guagan Ram, Vill. Kanina, Dist. Mahendergarh (Haryana),was born on 1 July 1938.He joined the Inian Army on 6 September 1957. Nk. Ram Kumar was the commander of a section of 4 Kumaon Regiment on protective duties at Karalpur Bridge on 7 August 1965. The enemy was very keen to destroy this bridge. At about 11:30 p.m. the enemy opened fire from the village and also fired rockets at the bridge. The protective section suffered heavy casualties and its commander was wounded. In disregard of his personal safety. Nk. Ram Kumar dragged the commander away from the bridge site. He himself was injured by grenade splinters. Despite this, when an enemy demolition squad reached the bridge Nk. Ram Kumar rushed and grappled with an enemy soldier and managed to throw a grenade, as a result of which the enemy soldier carying the demolition charge was wounded. The others fled. Nk. Ram Kumar died as a result of the bursting of his own grenade. Nk. Ram Kumar displayed indomitable courage and devotion to duty of a high order, He was awarded Vir Chakra on 7 August 1965.
Singh Ram, s/o Rao Sheokaran, Vill. Dhawana, Dist. Rewari (Haryana), was born on 15 January 1931. On 18 November, 1962, together with 114 jawans of 13 Kumaon Regiment, he laid down his life defending the motherland at Rezeng la at the height of 18000 feet and wrote a saga of cold courage and sacrifice which has no parallel in the annals of history. He fought the enemy till the last and laid down his life with ‘Dada Krishna Ki Jai’ on his lips. He was awarded Vir Chakra for his exceptional bravery an devotion to duty on 18 November 1962.
Umed Singh, s/o Sh. Kanhaia Lal, Vill. Dalawas, Dist. Mahendergarh (Haryana), was born on 5 March 1942. He joined the Indian Army on 21 December 1963. Nk. Umed Singh was in charge of the mortar section at a picquet in the Western Sector. On 6 December, 1971 the picquet was attacked by enemy in strength supported by intense mortar and automatic fire. Nk. Umed Singh moved from one mortar postion to another to inspire his men and ensure continuous fire on the targets.During this period an enemy shell brust near him and he was seriously wounded. He refused to be evacuated and stayed in the mortar position till the enemy attack was repulsed and their mortars silenced. He succumbed to his injuries soon after his evacuation. In this action, Nk. Umed Singh displayed determination and leadership of a high order. He was awarded Vir Chakra on 6 December 1971.
ASHOK CHAKRA
SUB. SURESH CHANDRA YADAV.AC (NSG)
Subedar Suresh Chandra Yadav S/o Rao Gokul Singh was born in Village KhatanKhera Tehsil Behror Distt.Alwar (Rajasthan).He got recruited inMahar Regiment. Later on he joined NSG on deputation.Hemade supreme sacrifice during operation AKSHARDHAM. in the best tradition of Indian army& the armed lineage of the valientAhir clan. He was awarded ASHOK CHAKRA for his exemplary courage, great leadership & devotation to duty in the service of motherland.
SH. JAGDISH PRASAD YADAV, AC (CIVILIAN)
Sh. Jagdish Prasad Yadav was born in Neem ka Thana Distt. Sikar (Rajasthan). He made Supreme sacrifice to save the highest seat of Indian Democracy i.e. Parliment of India fromthe terrorist attack. He was awarded ASHOK CHAKRAfor his daredevil courage, devotation to duty in the service of motherland.
Col. (IC - 37233) OM PRAKASH YADAV, YSM YUDDHA SEVA MEDAL (1BIHARREGIMENT)
Col. OmPrakashYadavwas awardedYuddha SevaMedal on 26 January 2000 for showing great courage, devotion to duty and qualities of leadership during the Operation Vijay, Kargil.
SUB. SAJJAN SINGH YADAV,AC (13KUMAON)
Sajjan Singh was born on 30 March 1953 in Vill. Kanina, Dist. Mahendergarh (Haryana). He was enrolled in the 13 Kumaon Regt. on 27 May 1971. He was a brilliant and brave soldier. He fought insurgents gallantly. In one of the actions, where is showed conspicuous courage, he was killed during Operation Rakshak, in J&K.He was awarded Ashok Chakra for this extraordinary bravery, leadership and supreme sacrfice. He also recieved Sangram Medal. Paschimi Star, Sainya Seva Medal, Himalaya Sainay Seva Medal for his distinguished service.
Deepak Yadav, s/o Raghuvir Singh Yadav, Vill. Muhana, Dist. Bualanshahar (UP) was a brilliant officer of the Indian Air Force. He rendered great service to the nation during the 1971 war when at great risk to his life, he had flown over 20 operational missions deep in to the enemy territory and knocked down their tanks and other deadly weapons with which were creating havoc. On 28 September 1976 he was flight testing an aircraft to examine a sepcific problemarea which he himself had identified During the course of air test the aircraft experienced structural failure and loss of control. The aircraft crashed and Sqn. Ldr Yadav lost his life in cause of test flying. For his raw courage and devotion to duty, he was awarded Kiriti Chakra posthumously.
RAMESH CHANDRA YADAV, SC SHAURYA CHAKRA
Ramesh Chandra came from a peasant family of Kanpur. He showed great courage and bravery in saving the lives of the civil populace. He lost his life but saved the situation. He was given Shaurya Chakra for showing raw courage in the face of heavy odds on 11 April 2000.
SEP VIJAYA BAHADUR YADAV, SC SHAURYA CHAKRA(CRPF)
Vijay Bahadur Yadav killed the enemy that had come to destroy the Indian Parliament, symbol of the greatest democracy in the world. He was given Shaurya Chakra for this conspicous gallantry and devotion to duty.
Pramod Kumar, born 12 January 1958, joined the Army on 22 December 1979. He showed unsurpassable courage and conspicuous gallantry during the counter-insurgency operations while serving with 3 (NH) AssamRifles in 1998, for which he recieved Shauryaon 1 May, 1998.
Recipients of Sena / Nao Sena / Vayu Sena Medals
(For individual acts of exceptional devotion to duty or courage as have special significance for the Forces)
HAV. JAINARAIN SINGH SENAMEDAL(13KUMAON)
All of them belonged to C Company, 13 Kumaon and got Sena Medal for showing conpicuous gallantry in the Battle of Rezang La, 18 November 1962.
REARADMIRAL (60163-H) S.S. RAO, NSM, VSM NAOSENA MEDAL,VSM (INDIAN NAVY)
RearAdmiral Surender SinghRao,VSM(60163 H), was commissioned in the Indian Navy on 30 September 1968. He did his advance course in Logistics and graduated form the Defence Services Sttaff College, Wellington. For exceptional devotion to duty, which was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy. Rear Admiral Surender Singh Rao was awarded Nao Sena Medal (Devotion to duty)
LIEUT.ANILYADAV, SM SENA MEDAL(16 RAJRIF)
Lt. Anil yadav was awarded Sena Medal for his exceptional bravery and devotion to duty in J&K in the face of grave danger to his life.
SUB.MAJ.BRAHMDUTT, SM SENA MEDAL(19KUMAON)
Sub. Maj. Braham Dutt was awarded Sena Medal for showing conspicuous bravery and heroism in the presence of the enemy.
Col. (IC - 33810) DAYANAND YADAV, SM (4 FIELD REGIMENT,ARTILLERY)
Col. Dayanand Yadav was awarded Sena medal for his exceptional bravery, courage and devotion to duty in the face of the enemy during the Operation Vijay at Kargil on 26 January, 2000.
Surja Yadav, s/o RaoMangal Singh, was born on 1May, 1926 at Vill. Bhaironpur, Dist. Jhajjar (Haryana). He joined the Kumaon Regiment on 1 November 1943. On 18 November, 1962, the Chinese forces attacked the Rezang La Company Post in Ladakh after a heavy concentration of artillery and mortar fire.The Defending company was greatly outnumbered but continued to fight very gallantly and inflicted heavy causalities on the enemy. Jem. Surja set a fine example by his own action, he continued to rally and encourage his men in spite of heavy odds and displayed courage and devotion to duty of a hight order. He was awarded Vir chakra for his great act of bravery.
Umrao Singh, s/o Sh. Tota Ram, Vill. Surjanwas, Dist. Mahendergarh (Haryana), was born on 10 August 1932. He joined 10 August 1957. L/Hav. Umrao Singh, showed great courage and bravery at Haji Pir Pass, 1965. Disregading his personal safety, he dashed forward within 20 yard of a machine gun of the enemy, threw a hand grenade and silenced it. At the same time, he got a light machine gun burst in his chest and was killed. Due to his daring and timely action, ring contour Haji Pir Pass was captured by company, e was awarded Vir Chakra on 30 August 1965.
SajjanSingh was born on 30March 1953 inVill.Kanina, Dist. Mahendergarh (Haryana). He was enrolled in the 13 Kumaon Regt. on 27 May 1971. Hewas a brilliant and brave soldier. He fought insurgents gallantly. In one of the actions, where is showed conspicuous courage, he was killed during Operation Rakshak, in J&K. He was awarded Ashok Chakra for this extraordinary bravery, leadership and supreme sacrfice. He also recieved Sangram Medal. Paschimi Star, Sainya Seva Medal, Himalaya Sainay Seva Medal for his distinguished service.
Sultan SinghYadav, s/o Dr. Shiv Sahai, was born on 19 February1928 at Vill.Nangal Pathani,Dist. Rewari (Haryana). He joined IAF after graduating from F.C. College, Lahore (1947). He rendered brillant service while in the Indian Air Force. In Consequence, he was taken to Indian Frontier Administrative Service in 1960. He was appointed Assistant Political Officer, Tuting Sub-divison. enormous problemof refugees coming form Tibet. He desplayed both energy and organising ability in settlement of these refugees. Air Commodore Yadav’s keen devotion to duty and unflagging energy were responsible for sustaining the morale and loyalty of the people during the Chiness agression and thereafter. He was awarded Padam Shri for this in 1963. He did many a use ful thing after his retirement (1978) for the exservicemen, specially when he worked as Secretary, Haryan Rajya Sainik Board from 1982 to 1986. He passed away on 8 September 1986.
Ch. Harmohan Singh Yadav, MP, showed courage and devotion to dutly during communal riots in Kanpur (UP),and saved many lives of people belonging to a minority community risking his own life and property. He was given Shaurya Chakra for this brave and noble deed!
Maj. Dharmesh, s/o Rao Kuldeep Singh (and grandson of Col. Maha Singh, former Minister, Haryana), comes from awell-known family ofVill.Musepur.Dist. Rewari (Haryana) On 6April 2001whileMaj.DharmeshYadavwas leading hismen to handle a difficult problemin J&K, terrorists opend fire on his men. Maj. Yadav took immediate decision and pounced upon the enemy. His daring dash unnerved them. He killed their leader and engaged in hand-to-hand fight with others. His men, too, behaved likewise and failed the attack.The Major showed conspicous gallantry and gave inspiring leadership to his men, denying his safety for life. For this unusual act of bravery, Major Dharmesh Yadav was awarded Shaurya Chakra on 26 January 2001.
HAV. GIRIDHARI LALYADAV, SC (POSTHOMOUS, 1PARA, SF)
Hav. Giridhari Lai showed conpicuous courage, bravery and devotion to duty in-insugency operations on 6 June 1984 in J&K. He was awarded Shaurya Chakra for his brave deeds posthumously.
Col. Devendra Singh Yadav was awarded Sena Medal on 15 August 1999 for showing exceptional courage and bravery during the Operation Vijay, Kargil.
GRDR (2683671)YOGENDRASINGHYADAV, SM SENAMEDAL(P) (18GRENADIERS)
Grdr. Yogendra SinghYadav was awarded the Sena Medal for showing conspicuous gallantry in the face of the enemy during the Operation Vijay, Kargil on 26 January 2000.
LIEUTR.K.YADAV, SM (POSTHOMOUS, 18GRENADIERS)
Lt. R.K.Yadav showed exceptional bravery, fine qualities of leadership and great sense of devotion to duty, while defending his motherland during the Operation Vijay, Kargil. He laid down his life for the noble cause and won Sena Medal.
COL. (IC 34972) L.S. YADAV, SM (26RASHTRIYARIFLES, KUMAON)
L.S. Yadav, s/o Lt. Col. H.S. Yadav vill. Kosli, dist. Rewari (Haryana), was born on 27 November 1955. He joined Army at very young age and made a mark, by dint of his merit, ability, on everything that he touched. He spent most of his service career in the field handling difficult situations. He showed exceptional bravery in dealing with insurgency in J & K on umpteen occasions. One day, atDoda Kishtwar hewas unmindful of anything, jumped into the jaws of death and killed several insurgents. He was awarded Sena Medal on 15 August 1996 showing unusual courage, bravery and devotion to duty.
GDR. (267902)NIRMAL SINGH, SM (POSTHOMOUS,GRENADIERS)
Gdr. Nirmal Singh showed great courage, bravery and sense of selfsacrifice in defence of his motherland on 29 May 1999 in the battle of Tiger Hill Top. He was awarded Sena Medal for this exceptional act of bravery.
NAIB SUB. LAL SINGH, SM (POSTHOMOUS, 18GRENADIERS)
N. Sub. Lal Singh showed raw courage, exceptional bravery and fine qualities of leadership in the battle of Tiger Hill Top, Kargil in the Operation Vijay, he laid down his life (29 May 1999) in the field and beat back the enemy. He was awarded Sena Medal for this act of great chivalry and sacrifice.
SUB.ARJUN SINGH, SM (1 PARA)
Sub. Arjun Singh showed conspicuous bravery, exceptional devotion to duty and fine qualities of leadership in the Battle of Hajipur, 1965. he was awarded Sena Medal for his gallant act.
HAV. LAXMINARAIN. SM SENAMEDAL(13KUMAON)
Hav. Laxmi Narain showed conspicuous gallantry in the presence of the enemy in the Jaisalmer Sector during the 1971 War. He was awarded Sena Medal for his bravery and devotion to duty.
L/NK.BANSIDHARYADAV, SM(P) (5 RASHTRIYARIFLES)
L/NK Bansidhar Yadav showed conspicuous gallantry while fighting insurgency in J&K and laid down his motherland. He was awarded Sena Medal for this selfless devotion to duty posthumously.
CAPT. B. B. YADAV, SM SENAMEDAL(ASSAMREGT)
Capt. B.B.Yadav a brillant, daring officer, comes froma military family from Kosli, dist. Rewari (Haryana). His father, Col. S.N. Yadav was also a distinguished officer. Capt. Yadav showed raw courage and bravery in discharge of his duty forgetting his safety of life. He was awarded Sena Medal for this gallant act.
GNR.KRISHAN SINGH, SM (233MEDIUMREGT.)
Krishan Singh, fromAlwar (Rajasthan), showed conspicuous gallantry in the 1971 war and won Sena Medal.
GNR.RAMSINGH, SM (233MEDIUMREGT.)
Ram Singh, from Uttar Pradesh, showed conspicuous gallantry in the 1971 War and won Sena Medal.
COL. (IC44862) OM PRAKASHYADAV, SM SENAMEDAL(603EMEBATTALION)
Col. Om prakash Yadav was awarded Sena Medal for showing exceptional courage in the face of the enemy during the Operation Vijay Kargil on 26 January 2000.
JC-47719 JEM.AMI SINGH (NOWSUB.MAJ.&HONYCAPT. RETD.
Gallantry Award Winners
(From 2001-07)
(1) IC-16095 - Lt.Gen. JBSYadav,AVSM,VrC,VSM, 11GR PVSM, Jan, 04
(2) IC-26838 - M/GSatyavirYadav,AVSM,Kumaon,CIF (K),AVSM, Jan, 04
(3) IC-25469 - Maj. Gen. Karan SinghYadav, AVSM, SM, USM
(4) L/N.K. - Rai Singh SC (P) 13 KUMAON
(5) IC-49724 - Major Dharmesh Yadav, Gdrs, 22RR, Shaurya Chakra, Jan, 02
(6) Sep. - Dashrath SC (P) 13 KUMAON
(7) IC-50069 - Ltd. Manav Yadav, SC 1 Para SF, Shaurya Chakra, Aug, 02
(8) IC-60520 - Capt. Krishan Yadav, SC SM, (ASC, 5 Bihar Shaurya Chakra, Jan, 04)
(9) IC-60520 - Captain Manoram Yadav, 5 JAKLI, Sena, Aug, 02
(10) IC-60520 - Lt. Krishan Yadav, ASC, 5 Bihar, Sena Medal, Aug, 02
(11) 4176965 - Nk. Lalmani Yadav 13 Kumaon (Posthumous) Sena Medal (G), Jan, 01
(12) 15611723 - L/Nk Hem Singh Yadav, Guards, 21 RR Posthumous, Sena Medal (G), Aug, 06
(13) IC-55356 - Major Rajesh Yadav, 1MLI, SM (G) Aug, 03
(14) 15564913 - Spr. Mahadev Narayan Yadav, 270 Engr Regt. Posthumous Sena Medal (G) Jan, 06
(15) IC-41880 - Lt. Mahinder Singh Yadav, Army Avn 9 (J) R&O Flt. SM (D), Jan, 06
(16) IC-45023 - Col. Rajendra Singh Yadav, Army Avn Sqn (R&O) Sm (G) Aug, 05
(17) IC-46705 - Major Uday Kumar Yadav, MLI, 8 Assam Rifles SM (G) Jan, 03, Shaurya Chakra, Aug. 03
(18) IC-58628 - Captain Kapil Yadav, 9 Para, SF Sm (G) Aug, 03
(19) 54511 - Captain Sanjeev Kr. Yadav, AD Asty, 1 RR, Sena Medal (Aug) 02
(20) JC-569232 - Nb Sub Vijai Pal Singh Yadav, 6 Mahar Sena Medal, Jan, 04
(21) 15137694 - Sep Parshuram Yadav, Arty, 30RR Sena Medal, Jan, 04
(22) IC-51745 - Maj.Ajit SinghYadav,Arty, 52RR Sena Medal, Jan, 04
(23) IC-57774 - Maj. SarjeetYadav, ADArty, 17RR Sena Medal, Aug, 04
(24) IC-31029K - Col. Jagdev Singh SM (G) 3GR
(25) IC-37660 - Lt. Col. Jaswant Singh Yadav, Inf SM (D), Jan, 02
(26) IC-60527 - Capt. Vijay SinghMehta, SM(13 KUMAON)
(27) SS-40823 - Capt. Sunil Yadav SC (Sig 122RR)
(28) IC-55096 - Maj. Pratap Gaur and Mehta, SC (172 for Resi.)
(29) IC-30706 - Brig. RamvirYadav, VSM(KUMAON)
(30) Nb Sub - Roop RamSM (P) 13 KUMAON
(31) NK - AnandSM13 KUMAON
(32) L/NK - Mahinder Prasad SM (P) 13 KUMAON
(33) Nb(Nb/Sub) - RamKumar, SM13 KUMAON
(34) Sep - Mukesh Chand SM, 13 KUMAON
(35) Sep. - Dashrath SC (P) 13 KUMAON
(36) IC-60642 - Lt. Dhirender Yadav, 24 Punjab, M-in-D, Aug, 03.
Demand for the Yadav Regiment
It is well known to all that, the Yadavs had a military tradition and the Yadavs as Abhiras wielded political power in different parts of ancient India. In the Ahir kingdoms, the state of Rewari was established by an Ahir military chief, Rao Nandram, during the reign of Fnrrukhsiyar (1713-19), the Mughal emperor of Delhi. The emperor, pleased with the military support he received from Nandram, gave him a jagir of 360 villages around Rewari, and legitimized Nandram’s supremacy over the region by conferring upon him the title of chowdhari. Nandram shifted to Rewari from Bolni and built a palace there. He belonged to the Yaduvamsi sub-caste of the Ahirs and to the Aphariya clan. The jagir was expanded by Gujarmal who got a mansab of 5,000 zat and a sanad from the Emperor Muhammad Shah (1719-48). Rao Gujarmal built many forts and issued coin of his own protrait but later the kingdom came under the control of the Marathas for a brief spell. Rao Tula Ram played an important role in the 1857 mutiny against the British. He proclaimed independence and assumed the title of Raja, and supported the rebels at Delhi, and on 16 November 1857 he fought a losing battle against the British at Narvane. Rao Tula Ram went to Tantia Tope, but with the capture of the Tope in 1862 he went to Iran and Afghanistan to raise an army, but died in Kabul on 23 September 1863. The British empire confiscated the estates of Rao Tula Ram and Gopal Dev, and this marked as the end of the Ahir kingdom. From that time British were against the recruitment of Yadavs in the cantonment through they have well established martial talents. However, through the efforts of Rao Balbir Singh, descendant of Rao Tula Ram, the British changed their attitude and started recruiting Yadavs to the British Indian Army. In 1898, the British raised four Ahir companies, two of which were in 95th Russel’s Infantry (The journal of the United Institute of India. Vol. 60. No. 182), and the Ahir soldiers of the Punjab were consistently praised by their majors and generals. Major Bingley (1904), spoke of the Ahirs as excellent soldiers, as brave, industrious and orderly, as their Jat neighbours. He found the Ahir soldiers eminently suitable for the profession of arms, because however hard the day’s march ahead and however tiring the manoeuvres, they always kept up their morale and did not give in. He included the Yaduvansi Ahirs among the martial races such as the Rajputs, Sikhs, jats and Pathans. He recommended that more Ahir companies be raised and Sikhs, jats and Ahirs from the Punjab formed the bulk of the Indian Army. According to General Sir George Barrow in 1929 the Punjab had contributed 86,000 out of 158,200 (54 per cent) soldiers in the Indian Army. Ahir soldiers fought bravely in World Wars I and II, and earned awards, medals and were mentioned in Despatches. At that time the Ahir companies were a part of the Hyderabad Regiment but later they became part of the Kumaon Regiment. During the Chinese Aggression in 1962, Ahir soldiers exhibited unparalleled bravery. The Chinese soldiers (about 1400) on 18 November 1962, attacked Chisul Airport which is in the Rezangla of Ladakh region. The 13th ‘C’ Company of the Kumaon Regiment under the leadership of Major Shaitan Singh and consisting of 120 Ahir soldiers saved the Airport. Except for 6 survivors, the entire Ahir company perished, but not before inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy. A news item from Hindustan Times. Delhi, (18 Decembers 1962) said. The Battle of Rezangla fought at 18.000 feet high will remain memorable for the gallant light put up by the Ahirs....’One Naik, Ram KawarYadav, was so severely wounded that the Chinese assumed he was dead, poured kerosene over him and lighted the body. But the naik regained consciousness, threw off his jacket, and walked back twelve miles to his base escaping the Chinese, in spite of nine bullet wounds. He survived and was promoted to the next higher rank of Hawaldar. Ten Ahir soldiers won awards, and Major Shaitan Singh got Param Vir Chakra, Jamadar Hariram. Jamadar Surja, Jamadar Ramchandra, naik Hukumchand and Hawaldar Ramkumar got Vir Chakra, and Hawaldar Major Harphool Singh, Hawaldar Phool Singh, Hawaldar Jayanarayan and Sipahi Nihal Singh got Sena Medal. A memorial called the ‘Kumaon Memorial : in Memory of the Ahirs of the Regiment’ has been established in Rezangla, and Colonel Rai Singh of Khosli was awarded Mahavir Chakra. The Rezangla event triggered off a major agitation by the A1YM demanding a separate Yadav regiment in the Army. The AIYM organized a conference in January 1963 in order to mobilize public opinion for the demand, and a delegation of one hundred met the Defence Minister. The Government’s reply was not favourable and this led to a further agitation. In November 1963 the AIYM started mobilizing the rural Yadavs and held small conferences in different parts of the Punjab, the Union Territory of Delhi, U.P. and Bihar, and it became the major issue at the annual conferences of the AIYM and at those of the State Mahasabhas. The arguments for the establishment of a Yadav regiment were : first, that the Yadavs as Kshatriyas had a military tradition in pre British India, and, hence, should be considered a marital race just as other marital races such as the Jats, Sikhs and Rajputs, secondly, the Yadavs in Rewari, under the leadership of Rao Tula Ram, had revolted against the British, who were, therefore, prejudiced against creating a regiment for them. Thirdly, after India attained Independence, the Yadavs had hoped that the Government of India would not do the injustice done by the British. It may be recalled that hundreds of Ahirs had joined the Indian National Army, under the leadership of Netaji Subash Chandra Bose. Fourthly, caste regiments exist in the Army and the formation of a Yadav regiment would be in accordance with the precedents. Fifthly, the Ahirs were part of the Kumaon Regiment and although they had fought bravely, the recognition went to the Kumaon Regiment Lastly, since the Yadavs roughly form ten per cent of the total population of India they could easily supply the number required for a whole regiment. The argument was further strengthened during the 1965 Indo-Pak war, when Yadav soldiers exhibited their bravery on several occasions. In 1966, the demand for the Yadav regiment reached its peak, when the AIYM started organizing corner meetings in the Union Territory of Delhi with a view to organizing a mammoth conference in 1967. However, instead of a mammoth conference of the AIYM, a Representative Conference of AIYM was held at Delhi, which was attended by 600 delegates from different parts of India. As this was a very effective conference, it is worth describing it in some detail. Chowdhari Deepchand, Chairman of the Reception Committee in his welcome speech outlined the mythological and historical greatness of the Yadavs, and stressed the part played by the Yadav Raja of Rewari, Rao Tula Ram, in the 1857 freedom struggle. Since Rao Tula Ram fought against the British, the latter did not raise a regiment for Yadavs, as they did for Jats, Sikhs and Rajputs. Deepchand narrated in detail the 1962 Rezangla event to illustrate how brave and sacrificing the Ahir soldiers were, and added that the Ahir soldiers had also earned a name for themselves during the 1965 Indo-Pak War. He outlined all the arguments for the creation of a Yadav regiment and made an appeal to the then Defence Minister, Sardar Swaran Singh, who had inaugurated the conference. Sardar Swaran Singh, in his speech paid warm tributes to the Yadav soldiers, who fought a heroic battle in Rezangla and who had laid down their lives for the country. He said the country was proud of the Yadavs, both as a martial race and as progressive farmers and also took note of their contributions in the political field. As regards the demand for a Yadav regiment he showed sympathy and consideration, and admitted that he did not know that Yadavs were spread all over India (Yadav Mahasabha, Souvenir of the AIYM Representative Conference, 1967). B.R. Bhagat (Yadav), the then State Minister for Defence, in his speech, stressed the fact that as long as there were regiments based on caste, there was no reason why there should not be one in the name of the Yadav. He said that it was necessary for the demand to be achieved through democratic mean. Chandrajit Yadav, MP, stressed the need for the backward or exploited castes, who constitute about 60 per cent of India’s population, to rise to the level of the other casts, and argued that it was unfair to include Ahir soldiers under the Kumaon Regiment, when other caste regiments had their own caste names, especially because this contrast was a source of grievance among Ahir soldiers. Since political power was the basis of achieving the demand, he urged the Yadavs to concentrate on acquiring political power and Daroga Rai (Yadav). Ex-Chief Minister of Bihar, declared that the policy of the Government of India that there should not be any regiments based on caste was an excuse and an insult to the Yadavs. He too emphasized the acquisition of political power by the Yadavs to fulfil their demands. Chowdhari Brahm Prakash, MP and ex-Chief Minister of Delhi State, reiterated that the backward or exploited classes form 60 per cent of the India population and added that not only a regiment but the entire political power should be in their hands. Being Yadavs, they were brave soldiers and progressive farmers, and as such should occupy their first place. Among the others who spoke were Rao Gajraj Singh, MP, Nagedra Prasad Yadav, MP, Jogeshwar Yadav, MP, Rajkumari Sumitra Bai, MLA, Banwarilal Yadav, advocate (Allahabad), Ramnandan Sinha Yadav, advacate, Bindeswari Prasad Singh, Secretary of AIYM and Rajit Singh, Editor of Yadav. Rao Virendra Singh, the then Chief Minister of Haryana, delivered the Presidential address, and said that when he met Y.B. Chavan, the then Defence Minister, he was told that only the Ahirs of Haryana were soldiers and not the Ahirs of the east. Hence, he wanted to tour all over U.P. Bihar and other places to encourage the Yadavs to join the army in great numbers so that the regiment could be formed without any further delay. He urged the Government to concede to the demand for a separate regiment, and said that if it did not, all the Yadav MPs (17) belonging to the Congress Party would resign, and added that there was nothing which could withstand political strength. The Conference passed a unanimous resolution appealing to the Government of India and the Defence Minister for an early creation of the Yadav regiment as long as there were other regiments based on caste, and urged the Yadav MPs in the Congress party to resign if the Government were to reject their demand. The 42nd Annual Conference held at Etawa in February 1968 emphasized two demands; namely the creation of a Yadav regiment and the adoption of the Backward Classes Commission’s recommendation. Rao Virendra Singh, who presided over the Conference pleaded for the capture of political power through which the Yadavs could gain educational and economic benefits and achieve the creation of the Yadav regiment. The other leaders who participated in the Conference were, B. P. Mandal, the then Chief Minister of Bihar, Shamlal Yadav, ex-Minister of U.P. and Rajendra Singh Yadav, the then Deputy Minister of U. P. In November 1968, the AIYM submitted another memorandum and the demand for the Yadav regiment is still a live issue with the AIYM. Meanwhile, Yadav soldiers have earned more credit, strengthening their demand. Captain B. B. Singh was awarded the Param Vir Chakra in the Indo-Pak War of 1971, as was Commander Babruvahan Yadav for fighting valiantly in the operation of the Indian Navy on the port of Karachi. Although the Government of India is not in favour of creating any new regiment on caste lines, it has increased the proportion of Ahir soldiers in the Kumaon Regiment, artillery and other wings of the military forces. The demand for a Yadav regiment, discussed above; had two significant effects on the Yadav movement. First, the AIYM was revitalized, and strengthened in many ways. While many local and regional associations were affiliated to the AIYM, important political leaders among the Yadavs started taking an interest in the new programme, as they considered the case worth fighting for. As a result of this, the AIYM emerged as a strong organization representing about 10 per cent of the population of India. Secondly, the demand for a regiment boosted the self-image of the Yadavs as a martial race, and they gained recognition from the other martial races and the Central Government. Although the Government has not accepted the demand, they have increased the proportion of Yadav soldiers and have given awards in recognitions of their martial talents. The martial element has added a new dimension to the Yadav ideology in the sense that the Yadavs provide a real fighting force, which is characteristic of the Kshatriyas. An indirect effect of the growing power of the Yadavs has been that the Congress Party has gathered the support of the Yadavs in different parts of India, so as to enlarge their political base.
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