Meet Major Rakesh TR: 9 Para Special Forces Officer Who Saved PM Modi’s Convoy

Major Rakesh T.R. serves with the 9th Battalion of the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), designated as 9 PARA (SF), one of the Indian Army’s most elite commando formations. On 24 April 2022, while holding the rank of Captain and serving as Alert Troop Commander, he exhibited exceptional courage, tactical proficiency, and leadership by neutralising a terrorist threat and preventing a planned fidayeen (suicide) attack during a public rally addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Jammu. His actions directly protected the Prime Minister, security personnel, and a large civilian gathering, for which he was awarded the Shaurya Chakra, India’s third-highest peacetime gallantry decoration.

This article presents a comprehensive and factual account of Major Rakesh T.R.’s background, military service, and the precise circumstances of his gallant action, based on official citations and verified records.

Early Life and Background

Major Rakesh T.R. hails from Thorehalli village in Gubbi taluk, Tumakuru district, Karnataka. His father, Shri T. Raj Kumar (also referred to as Rajkumar T.), is a farmer engaged in the cultivation of coconut and arecanut, while his mother, Smt. Bhagya D.N., is a homemaker. He has one elder sister, who is married and resides in Bengaluru. Although born in a rural setting, Major Rakesh was primarily raised in Bengaluru, where his family maintained strong ties.

He completed his schooling at Sri Veena School in Nandini Layout, Bengaluru. He subsequently pursued pre-university education and obtained a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Seshadripuram College. During his college years, he was an active member of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and represented Karnataka at the Thal Sainik Camp in New Delhi, earning a gold medal. The 2008 Mumbai terror attacks served as a profound catalyst, inspiring him to pursue a career in the armed forces rather than a conventional professional path. He successfully cleared the Services Selection Board interview and joined the Indian Military Academy.

Military Commissioning and Service in Special Forces

Major Rakesh T.R. was commissioned into the Indian Army as a Lieutenant on 10 September 2016. He distinguished himself during training at the Indian Military Academy, receiving a bronze medal for meritorious performance, which was presented by the then-President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee. Following commissioning, he volunteered for and successfully completed the demanding selection and training process for the Para Special Forces. He was posted to the 9th Battalion, The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces).

By April 2022, as Captain Rakesh T.R., he held the appointment of Alert Troop Commander within 9 PARA (SF). This role required constant operational readiness to respond to any terror-related threats in high-risk environments, underscoring the rigorous standards maintained by India’s Special Forces.

The Gallant Action: 24 April 2022, Jammu

On 24 April 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was scheduled to address a public rally in Jammu. Credible intelligence indicated a high probability of a fidayeen attack targeting the event, leading to intensified security arrangements.

As Alert Troop Commander, Captain Rakesh T.R. and his troop were on standby. Upon receipt of reports confirming terrorist presence and an attack on a security forces convoy in a densely populated urban area near the rally venue—with possible own casualties—his team was promptly mobilised. Utilising a quadcopter drone for aerial reconnaissance, he accurately located the terrorists and directed the establishment of a close cordon, effectively isolating them.

When the terrorists realised they were surrounded, they opened indiscriminate fire in an attempt to breach the cordon and advance towards civilian areas, which could have resulted in significant casualties. Displaying exceptional tactical acumen, nerves of steel, and complete disregard for personal safety, Captain Rakesh T.R. advanced under heavy enemy fire. He provided suppressive fire to pin down one terrorist and then engaged the threat at close quarters with precise shooting, neutralising the terrorist. His decisive intervention prevented the assailants from reaching the rally site or causing further harm, thereby averting a major tragedy.

The official citation for the Shaurya Chakra, as published by the Press Information Bureau, states: “For his sharp tactical acumen, nerves of steel and unparalleled courage under fire while eliminating one terrorist and preventing a Fidayeen attack, Captain Rakesh TR is awarded ‘SHAURYA CHAKRA’.”

Recognition and Award

For this act of valour, Captain Rakesh T.R. (subsequently promoted to Major) was announced as a recipient of the Shaurya Chakra on Republic Day 2023. The award was conferred by President Droupadi Murmu during the Defence Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on 9 May 2023.

The honour highlights not only his individual bravery but also the operational effectiveness and professionalism of the Indian Army’s Special Forces in safeguarding national leadership and public safety.

Current Status and Legacy

Major Rakesh T.R. continues to serve with 9 PARA (SF). Consistent with operational security protocols for active Special Forces officers, details of his subsequent assignments and any further activities remain classified and are not publicly disclosed.

His journey from a modest background in Karnataka to an elite Special Forces officer exemplifies dedication, resilience, and selfless service. Major Rakesh T.R.’s actions on 24 April 2022 stand as a testament to the highest traditions of the Indian Army, reinforcing national resolve against terrorism and inspiring future generations of defence personnel.