Major Rakesh T.R. is a serving officer of the Indian Army and a commando of the elite 9th Battalion, The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), popularly known as 9 PARA (SF). He is widely recognised for his decisive and courageous action on 24 April 2022, when he neutralised a terrorist threat and prevented a planned fidayeen attack during a public rally addressed by Narendra Modi in Jammu. For this act of exceptional gallantry, he was awarded the Shaurya Chakra, India’s third-highest peacetime gallantry decoration.
Early Life and Background
Major Rakesh T.R. hails from Thorehalli village in Gubbi taluk of Tumakuru district, Karnataka. He was born into a humble family; his father, Shri T. Raj Kumar, is a farmer engaged in coconut and arecanut cultivation, while his mother, Smt. Bhagya D.N., is a homemaker. Though rooted in a rural background, he was largely brought up in Bengaluru, where his family maintained close connections.
He completed his schooling at Sri Veena School in Nandini Layout, Bengaluru, and later pursued his pre-university education followed by a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Seshadripuram College. During his college years, he actively participated in the National Cadet Corps and represented Karnataka at the Thal Sainik Camp in New Delhi, where he earned a gold medal.
A defining moment in his life came after the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, which deeply influenced his decision to join the armed forces. Motivated to serve the nation, he cleared the Services Selection Board and began his journey towards a military career.
Military Training and Commission
Major Rakesh T.R. was commissioned into the Indian Army as a Lieutenant on 10 September 2016 after completing his training at the prestigious Indian Military Academy. During his time at the academy, he distinguished himself through meritorious performance and was awarded a bronze medal, presented by former President Pranab Mukherjee.
Following his commissioning, he volunteered for the Para Special Forces, one of the most demanding and selective combat arms in the Indian Army. After successfully completing the rigorous probation and training, he was inducted into 9 PARA (SF), a unit known for its high-risk counter-terrorism and special operations.
Role in 9 PARA (SF)
By April 2022, then Captain Rakesh T.R. was serving as an Alert Troop Commander in 9 PARA (SF). This role required constant readiness to respond to emerging threats, particularly in sensitive and high-risk environments. Officers in such appointments are expected to lead from the front and make rapid tactical decisions under pressure.
The Gallant Action in Jammu
On 24 April 2022, a major public rally was scheduled in Jammu, to be addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Intelligence inputs indicated a high likelihood of a fidayeen attack targeting the event, prompting heightened security measures across the region.
Captain Rakesh T.R. and his team were placed on standby as part of the Quick Reaction framework. Soon after, reports emerged of terrorist presence and an attack on a security forces convoy in a densely populated area near the rally site, raising the possibility of imminent escalation.
Responding swiftly, Captain Rakesh T.R. led his troop into action. Demonstrating tactical innovation, he deployed a quadcopter drone to conduct aerial surveillance and accurately identify the location of the terrorists. Based on real-time inputs, he directed his team to establish a tight cordon, effectively isolating the attackers and preventing their movement towards civilian areas.
As the terrorists realised they were surrounded, they opened indiscriminate fire in an attempt to break the cordon and advance. The situation posed a serious threat to both civilians and security personnel.
Displaying exceptional composure and courage, Captain Rakesh T.R. advanced under heavy enemy fire. He provided effective suppressive fire, pinned down one of the terrorists, and then engaged in close-quarter combat. With precise and controlled action, he neutralised the terrorist, thereby eliminating the immediate threat.
His timely and decisive intervention prevented the attackers from reaching the rally venue, averting what could have been a major tragedy involving large-scale civilian casualties and a potential threat to national leadership.
Award and Recognition
For his outstanding bravery, leadership, and presence of mind under fire, Captain Rakesh T.R. was awarded the Shaurya Chakra, announced on Republic Day 2023. The honour was conferred by President Droupadi Murmu at the Defence Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on 9 May 2023.
The official citation praised his “sharp tactical acumen, nerves of steel and unparalleled courage under fire while eliminating one terrorist and preventing a fidayeen attack.”
Current Service and Legacy
Now promoted to the rank of Major, Rakesh T.R. continues to serve with 9 PARA (SF). In keeping with operational security protocols associated with Special Forces units, details of his current assignments remain undisclosed.
His journey from a modest background in Karnataka to becoming a decorated Special Forces officer reflects determination, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to national service. His actions on 24 April 2022 stand as a powerful example of the Indian Army’s professionalism and readiness to counter threats under the most challenging circumstances.
