The sacrifice made by the Indian Army in ensuring the safety and security of the nation is immense and commendable. The army shoulders a colossal responsibility among all other institutions, operating as a multi-tasking force trained to handle a wide array of situations and circumstances. This is why the army stands for 'Alert Mobility Regular Young.' The young individuals serving in the army exhibit remarkable professionalism, making the Indian army one of the most disciplined forces in the world. Their dedication has significantly contributed to strengthening India's democracy.
Captain Tushar Mahajan, like many other brave soldiers, exemplified the spirit of sacrifice and bravery. He laid down his life for the nation, showcasing exceptional courage, Vigor, and commitment. Captain Mahajan proudly served as a member of the Para, the Special Forces of the Indian Army. Hailing from Udhampur, a strategically located region in the northern part of India near the border with Pakistan, he was stationed in a key military base due to its proximity to the Line of Control, the de facto border between India and Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir.
In 2016, Captain Tushar Mahajan was deployed for a special operation in Pulwama, Kashmir, where terrorists were holed up in an entrepreneurship development building. He, along with his fellow soldiers, successfully neutralized all the terrorists, displaying extraordinary bravery. Captain Mahajan made the supreme sacrifice while defending our nation, leaving behind a legacy of valor and patriotism.
In his loving memory, the government has recently named Udhampur Railway Station as Captain Tushar Mahajan, honoring the supreme sacrifice he made during the encounter with armed terrorists in Pulwama in 2016.
In order to honour the brave soldiers of the country who have sacrificed their precious lives for the integrity and solidarity of the nation, the present government should start renaming public offices and important landmarks. This sends a message in society that martyrs are respected and honoured. In Kashmir, various educational institutions have been renamed after local soldiers who have been martyred. This has given courage and respect to their dear ones and recognition to their powerful sacrifice.
During their duties, they never bow their heads; they accept the challenge and obey orders. Whether they are at extreme borders where terrain and harsh weather don’t allow one to live comfortably, yet they live a life facing all challenges — this is the real victory. Avalanches bring huge ice slabs, rocks, debris, and whatnot. Imagine facing this without sustainable cover. During the cold, icy winds, vulnerability in places like the Gurez Sector, which is a horseshoe-shaped border, while the enemy is ready to shoot, and there you stand tall and vigilant.
Captain Tushar Mahajan was born on 20 April 1989 into a family of academicians. His father, Dev Raj Gupta, was a well-known educationist in Udhampur and retired as a principal. Captain Mahajan always nurtured the dream of becoming a soldier to combat terrorists and eliminate them. He joined the National Defence Academy (NDA) in 2006 (Batch 116) before proceeding to the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in 2009 (Batch 126).
Despite his parents' wishes, Captain Tushar Mahajan chose to pursue his passion for the military. His father had hoped for him to become an engineer like his elder brother. However, Tushar followed his heart and became an officer in the army. He was commissioned into the prestigious Parachute Regiment and became a member of the elite 9 Para (Special Forces) unit.
Captain Tushar Mahajan cherished the adventurous life and took immense pride in being a commando in the renowned Special Forces unit, known for its daring operations. His bravery, unyielding fighting spirit, and supreme sacrifice earned him the gallantry award 'Shaurya Chakra.
Tushar’s story deserves to be told, as he is a source of motivation not only for the present generation but also for countless generations to come, who can draw inspiration from his sacrifice. Our children should be nurtured with the fundamental truth that India is our pride.
The local residents, the Tushar Memorial Trust, and his family members are thankful to the government for naming the railway station in Udhampur as the Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan Railway Station.

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