Tributes Paid to Major Rama Raghoba Rane on His Remembrance Day

New Delhi, July 11: On the Remembrance Day of Second Lieutenant Major Rama Raghoba Rane, a valiant son of India who made the ultimate sacrifice, several leaders paid their respects on Saturday.

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, took to the social media platform ‘X’ to honor Rane, stating, “A humble tribute to Param Vir Chakra awardee Second Lieutenant Major Rama Raghoba Rane Ji on his Remembrance Day.”

Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary also shared a tribute on social media, writing, “On the death anniversary of Major Rama Raghoba Rane Ji, a brave son of Mother India adorned with the Param Vir Chakra, I pay my humble respects. His indomitable courage, valor, and supreme sacrifice for the nation’s defense will continue to inspire the citizens of the country.”

It is noteworthy that during the India-Pakistan war of 1947-48, Rane fearlessly cleared paths for tanks amidst enemy fire and landmines. He was awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honor, while still alive.

Born on June 26, 1918, in Chendia village of Karnataka’s Karwar district, Rane joined the British Indian Army during World War II. After the war, he continued to serve in the Indian Army. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Bombay Sappers (Corps of Engineers) on December 15, 1947. In April 1948, during the operation to capture Rajouri, his company, the 37 Assault Field Company, was tasked with clearing roadblocks and minefields.

On April 8, 1948, amidst heavy shelling from the Pakistani army, Rane worked tirelessly for 72 hours. Two of his comrades lost their lives, and five others, including Rane, were injured. Despite his injuries, he removed landmines, cleared roads, and facilitated the advance of Indian tanks. His bravery and leadership were crucial in the liberation of Rajouri.

For his gallantry, he was awarded the Param Vir Chakra on April 8, 1948. After 28 years of service, Rane retired as a Major in 1968, receiving five mentions in dispatches. He passed away at the age of 76 on July 11, 1994, at the Command Hospital in Pune.