Havildar Gajendra Singh of the elite 2 PARA Special Forces (SF) attained Veergati (martyrdom) during a fierce counter-terrorism operation in the Singpura area of Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir.
The operation, codenamed Operation TRASHI-I, was launched on the basis of specific intelligence inputs regarding the presence of Pakistan-sponsored terrorists, believed to be affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), in the dense forested region near Chatroo. On the night of January 18-19, 2026, security forces engaged the terrorists in a prolonged gunfight. The terrorists, positioned on higher ground, targeted the approaching teams with grenades and automatic fire, resulting in injuries to eight soldiers, primarily from splinter wounds.
Havildar Gajendra Singh displayed exceptional courage and valour during the encounter, sustaining critical injuries while gallantly executing his duties. He succumbed to his wounds during treatment at a military hospital.
The White Knight Corps (Nagrota-based) paid solemn tributes to the braveheart, stating: “The GOC, White Knight Corps, and all ranks pay solemn tribute to Havildar Gajendra Singh of the Special Forces, who made the supreme sacrifice while gallantly executing a Counter Terrorism operation in the Singpura area during the ongoing Operation TRASHI-I on the night of 19 Jan 2026. We honour his indomitable courage, valour and selfless devotion to duty and stand firmly with the bereaved family in this hour of profound grief.”
Search operations continue in the area, with additional reinforcements deployed, including helicopters, drones, and sniffer dogs, to locate the terrorists and neutralize the threat. A suspected terrorist hideout has been busted in the vicinity, containing rations and other supplies indicating prolonged presence.
The nation salutes Havildar Gajendra Singh’s supreme sacrifice in defending the country’s security. His bravery will be remembered with pride.
