2nd Lieutenant Rama Raghoba Ran

 2nd Lieutenant Rama Raghoba Rane: The Brave Engineer of the 1947-48 War

2nd Lieutenant Rama Raghoba Rane, born on 26 June 1918 in Chendia, Karnataka, was a fearless officer of the Corps of Engineers in the Indian Army.

Commissioned on 15 December 1947, he played a pivotal role in the Indo-Pak War of 1947-48, leading minefield clearance and road-opening operations that enabled the Indian Army’s advance. His exceptional bravery and dedication earned him the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest wartime gallantry award.

Heroic Actions in the 1947-48 War

During the Jammu & Kashmir operations, the Indian Army recaptured Jhangar on 18 March 1948, lost earlier to Pakistani forces. To liberate Rajouri and protect civilians, Indian troops advanced from Naushahra, facing intense enemy resistance.

 The 4 Dogra Regiment commenced their push on 8 April 1948, capturing Barwali Ridge. However, beyond this, heavy roadblocks and extensive minefields halted progress.

Clearing the Path Under Fire

Assigned to 37 Assault Field Company, 2nd Lt. Rane and his men were tasked with clearing the road for advancing forces. Despite facing constant enemy shelling, they worked tirelessly for three days, defusing mines, clearing obstacles, and even creating alternative routes where necessary.

On April 8, while clearing mines, two sappers were killed, and five, including Rane, were injured in mortar fire. Despite his wounds, Rane completed the mission, enabling tanks to move forward.

On April 9, his team worked for 12 hours straight, removing roadblocks while under heavy artillery and machine-gun fire.

On April 10, facing a massive roadblock of five pine trees surrounded by mines, Rane single-handedly blasted through, opening the route in just two hours despite intense enemy fire.

On April 11, he led a 17-hour operation to clear the road to Chingas, paving the way for the final push to Rajouri.

Paving the Way for Victory

His determination and fearless leadership allowed the Indian Army to advance swiftly into Rajouri, resulting in the elimination of 500 enemy troops and the liberation of innocent civilians from enemy atrocities. His tireless efforts saved countless lives and secured India's strategic advantage in the war.

Param Vir Chakra Award & Legacy

Recognizing his extraordinary courage, 2nd Lieutenant R R Rane was awarded the Param Vir Chakra, becoming the first officer from the Corps of Engineers to receive this honor. He later retired as a Major in 1968, after 21 years of distinguished service, earning five Mention-in-Despatches for his contributions.

2nd Lt. Rane’s unwavering dedication, leadership, and sacrifice remain an inspiration for the Indian Army and the nation. His heroic engineering feats under enemy fire helped secure India’s victory and earned him a place in history as one of India’s greatest war heroes. 🇮🇳