Meet Lieutenant Colonel Rohit Lingwal: 9 Para Special Forces Officer Who Crawled Under Fire to Neutralise Terrorist Leader

Lieutenant Colonel Rohit Lingwal, Shaurya Chakra, of the 9th Battalion, Parachute Regiment (Special Forces)—widely known as 9 PARA SF—exemplifies the highest traditions of courage, leadership, and operational excellence in the Indian Army. As a highly trained commando in one of India’s premier special operations units, he distinguished himself through a daring counter-infiltration mission along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir in July 2018. His actions, marked by meticulous planning, stealth, and extraordinary bravery under direct enemy fire, resulted in the neutralisation of a hardcore terrorist leader and the prevention of a major attack on Indian positions. For this display of gallantry, he was awarded the Shaurya Chakra, India’s third-highest peacetime gallantry decoration.

At the time of the operation, Lt Col Lingwal held the rank of Major. He has since been promoted to his current rank and continues to serve with 9 PARA SF, a unit renowned for its specialised counter-terrorism, direct action, and reconnaissance capabilities. Officers assigned to such elite formations typically maintain a discreet public profile to safeguard operational security; as a result, verified personal biographical details remain limited. He is a recipient of the Balidan Badge, awarded to PARA SF personnel who have participated in active combat operations, further underscoring his combat experience.

The Operation: Precision, Perseverance, and Close-Quarters Courage

While deployed along the LoC for counter-infiltration duties, Major Rohit Lingwal methodically cultivated an intelligence network focused on the activities of terrorist outfits in the region. This network yielded critical information regarding the reconnaissance efforts of a hardcore terrorist who planned to lead a group in executing a significant assault on an Indian Army post.

Exhibiting outstanding leadership and tactical foresight, Major Lingwal led his troop through active minefields positioned ahead of Indian defences. Over an extended period, the team established and maintained multiple ambushes to interdict potential infiltrators. In July 2018, he directed his party toward the LoC for a prolonged operation. The team remained in complete concealment, observing strict operational discipline with no detectable signature of their presence.

One afternoon, Major Lingwal detected terrorists advancing toward Indian positions. He promptly alerted his troop and initiated a stealthy approach. Demonstrating exceptional field craft and nerves of steel, the team preserved the element of surprise until the critical moment. A close-quarters firefight erupted as the terrorists engaged with small arms and grenades. Unmindful of the intense volley of bullets and explosives, Major Rohit Lingwal crawled forward under heavy fire toward the enemy position. In a display of resolute courage and precise marksmanship, he neutralised the hardcore terrorist leader at close quarters.

This decisive intervention eliminated the immediate threat and completely thwarted the planned hostile operation against Indian troops. The mission highlighted the indispensable role of intelligence-led, small-team special operations in safeguarding border security.

Recognition: The Shaurya Chakra

For displaying most conspicuous gallantry, outstanding leadership, meticulous planning, and perseverance in eliminating the hardcore terrorist leader, Major Rohit Lingwal was awarded the Shaurya Chakra. The award was announced on 26 January 2019 and formally presented by the then President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind.

The official citation, published across authoritative defence sources and mainstream media, underscores the professional competence and valour that define the ethos of the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces). It states:

“For displaying most conspicuous gallantry, outstanding leadership and meticulous planning and perseverance, in eliminating the hardcore terrorist leader, Major Rohit Lingwal is awarded SHAURYA CHAKRA.”

Legacy and Continued Service

Lieutenant Colonel Rohit Lingwal’s promotion to his present rank reflects the Indian Army’s recognition of his sustained professional excellence and operational contributions. His story resonates strongly within the defence community, particularly among aspirants preparing for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interviews and those aspiring to join elite units. Platforms dedicated to defence career guidance frequently feature his actions as an illustration of the leadership attributes, mental resilience, and tactical proficiency demanded of Indian Army officers.

In an environment characterised by persistent challenges along India’s frontiers, officers such as Lt Col Lingwal operate with quiet professionalism, often beyond public view. Their contributions remain vital to national security and the preservation of peace in contested regions.

The Indian Army and the nation continue to honour such acts of bravery, which serve as enduring sources of inspiration for current and future generations of soldiers. Lieutenant Colonel Rohit Lingwal’s service stands as a testament to the commitment, sacrifice, and unyielding spirit that define India’s armed forces.