7th battalion AR commemorates ‘Operation Dudhi’

DIMAPUR — The 7th Assam Rifles stationed at Ghaspani under Chümoukedima commemorated the 33rd anniversary of ‘Operation Dudhi’ on Sunday.

‘Operation Dudhi,’ which took place in Kupwara district of the then Jammu and Kashmir state on May 5, 1991, was considered as the most successful counter insurgency operation ever by any of Indian security forces in which 72 terrorists were neutralised and 13 were apprehended along with the recovery of 118 weapons (largely AK -47 series).

On the occasion, all the soldiers who took part in the ‘Operation Dudhi’ were honoured for their remarkable contributions.

The Directorate General of Assam Rifles (DGAR), Lt. Gen. Pradeep Chandran Nair, the chief guest of the event, interacted with retired junior commissioned officers (JCO) and other ranks who took part in the operation.

In his address, Lt. Gen. Nair lauded the ‘Operation Dudhi’ team on their accomplishment and termed the success as a classic example of a small-team spearheaded by Nb/Sub Padam Bahadur Chhetri and 14 jawans.

Nair recalled that what initially appeared as a routine patrol to reopen a winter vacated post at Dudhi led to a significant outcome as the operation resulted in the neutralisation of 72 terrorists and arrest of 13 others besides the recovery of 118 weapons along with ammunition and various other warlike stores.

He stated that the operation had showcased exceptional courage, valour and outstanding leadership of junior officers, the feat which remained unparalleled to this day.

He mentioned that the brave hearts namely Rifleman Ram Kumar Arya (Sena Medal) from Uttarakhand and Rifleman Kameshwar Prasad (Shaurya Chakra) from Bihar made the supreme sacrifice during operation Dudhi by upholding the highest traditions of the force.

Nair also mentioned that Nb/Sub Padam Bahadur Chhetri was awarded the Kirti Chakra for his exceptional leadership and bravery, while many other gallantry awards were bestowed upon the members of the team for their outstanding performance which included one Shurya Chakra, two Sena Medals, one GOC-in-C Northern Command Commendation Card and nine Director General Commendation Cards.

At the event, the commandant of 7 Assam Rifles, Col. Vikrant Gupta said, “The battalion takes great pride in honouring the living legends of “Operation Dudhi” and the two brave hearts for making the ultimate sacrifice for the country”.

Wreaths were laid to pay homage to the brave soldiers. It was followed with interactions from the members of Assam Rifles Ex-Servicemen (ESM), Veernaris and their families.

During the interaction, Lt. Gen. Nair lauded the unwavering commitment and bravery displayed by the soldiers during the “Operation Dudhi.” He emphasised how their actions have inspired generations and showcased the true meaning of bravery and selflessness in the face of adversity. He further expressed gratitude to all the veterans, their families and the Veernaris for their sacrifices and service to the nation.