Meet Lieutenant Colonel Ranawat 21 Para (Special Forces): Earns Sena Medal (Gallantry)

Shiladitya Singh Ranawat, an officer of the Indian Army serving with 21 Para (Special Forces), stands among India’s most resolute warriors. After completing his training at the Indian Military Academy, he was commissioned into the Indian Army in December 2012. Since then, his career has been marked by quiet professionalism, exceptional operational competence, and steadfast courage in the face of danger. Lieutenant Colonel Ranawat was awarded the Sena Medal (Gallantry) on the occasion of the 79th Independence Day, 2025. The decoration was formally conferred on 9 January 2026 during the South Western Command Investiture Ceremony.

Importantly, the gallantry for which he was honoured was earned while serving as a Major. The award recognises his exemplary leadership and fearless conduct during counter-insurgency operations in North East India, one of the Army’s most demanding theatres.

During a high-risk mission, Major (then) Ranawat gathered critical intelligence on hostile elements planning attacks inside India, individuals who were already on the National Investigation Agency watchlist. Acting decisively, he neutralised one militant and injured two others, preventing a serious threat to national security.

Known among peers as a true maverick, Lt Col Ranawat epitomises the Special Forces credo:

• Underwater Combat Diver
• Combat Free Faller

These elite qualifications reflect years of relentless training and an unwavering commitment to operational readiness.

From earning his gallantry medal as a Major to later assuming higher responsibilities as a Lieutenant Colonel, Shiladitya Singh Ranawat’s career underscores the highest traditions of the Indian Army Special Forces—leadership by example, courage in the face of adversity, and devotion to duty.

His Sena Medal is not only a personal honour, but a proud moment for 21 Para (SF) fraternity, and the nation.