The Indian Army has confirmed the tragic death of Lance Havildar Palash Ghosh, a member of the elite 5th Battalion Parachute Regiment Special Forces (5 Para SF), during a counter-terrorism operation in the Kokernag area of Anantnag district, Jammu and Kashmir. Ghosh, who previously served with the Special Group, succumbed to severe weather conditions while on patrol, highlighting the perilous challenges faced by security forces in the region.
The incident occurred when Ghosh and his colleague, Lance Naik Sujay Ghosh, went missing during a routine patrol on Monday. Search operations were promptly initiated, and their bodies were recovered amid reports of a snowstorm that complicated the mission. Both soldiers are believed to have perished due to the adverse weather, underscoring the environmental hazards that accompany anti-militancy efforts in the Himalayan terrain.
The Chinar Corps of the Indian Army paid homage to the fallen soldiers, stating that they made the “supreme sacrifice” while conducting relentless counter-terror operations in the Kishtwar Range. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha of Jammu and Kashmir also offered tributes, emphasizing the bravery and dedication of the personnel involved in maintaining security in the volatile area.
Lance Havildar Palash Ghosh’s service record reflects his commitment to national defence, having transitioned from the Special Group a specialized unit focused on covert operation to the 5 Para SF, known for its airborne and special warfare capabilities. His loss has been mourned across military circles and by civilians alike, with social media tributes highlighting his valor and the sacrifices made by India’s armed forces.
This event serves as a somber reminder of the ongoing risks in Jammu and Kashmir, where security forces continue to engage in operations against terrorist elements despite challenging conditions. The Indian Army has extended condolences to the families of the deceased and reaffirmed its resolve to uphold peace and stability in the region.
