India has produced many valiant soldiers who have laid down their lives in service of the nation, and among them, Major Ramaswamy Parameswaran stands tall. His name is etched in history as a true embodiment of courage and selfless service. A soldier of extraordinary bravery and dedication, Major Parameswaran faced the ultimate test during Operation Pawan in Sri Lanka. His fearless actions not only saved the lives of his comrades but also struck a decisive blow against enemy forces. For his unparalleled heroism and supreme sacrifice, he was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest wartime gallantry award. His story continues to inspire generations of soldiers, serving as a shining example of valor and patriotism.
Early Life and Military Career
Born on 13 September 1946 in Bombay (now Mumbai), Maharashtra, Major Parameswaran was the son of Mr. K S Ramaswamy and Mrs. Janaki Ramaswamy. He completed his schooling at SIES High School, Mumbai, and pursued a science degree from SIES College. With a deep sense of duty towards the nation, he joined the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai and was commissioned into the 15 Mahar Regiment on 16 June 1972.
He soon became part of the 5 Mahar Regiment, actively engaged in counter-insurgency operations in Mizoram and Tripura. Throughout his service, Major Parameswaran earned a reputation as a resolute leader, admired by his troops, who affectionately called him “Parry Sahib.” His ability to lead from the front and his unwavering commitment to his soldiers made him a formidable force in the battlefield.
Operation Pawan and the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord
In 1987, India intervened in the Sri Lankan Civil War through the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord. The Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) was deployed to maintain order and curb the growing influence of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). As part of this mission, Major Parameswaran was specially selected to serve with 8 Mahar Regiment, one of the first units deployed in Sri Lanka.
The mission, known as Operation Pawan, saw fierce resistance from the LTTE, which refused to disarm and instead waged an all-out war against the IPKF. Major Parameswaran and his battalion engaged in several high-risk operations in Maruthanamadam, Annai Kotai Manipai, and Kantarodai.
The Battle of Kantarodai
On the night of 24 November 1987, intelligence reports indicated that a cache of arms and ammunition had been hidden in a house in Katarodai. A patrol led by Captain D R Sharma was dispatched to investigate but soon came under heavy fire from LTTE militants. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Major Parameswaran took a strong patrol unit and proceeded to reinforce the patrol.
Reaching the area by 1:30 AM on 25 November, his team cordoned off the suspected site and waited until first light to commence the search. However, as they were withdrawing at dawn, they were ambushed by LTTE militants hidden in a nearby temple grove.
Undeterred, Major Parameswaran quickly assessed the situation and launched a counter-ambush. Displaying unparalleled bravery, he led his troops from the front, outflanking the militants. In the midst of hand-to-hand combat, he was shot in the chest by an LTTE fighter. Despite his fatal wound, he snatched the enemy’s rifle and shot him dead. Bleeding profusely, he continued to issue commands and inspire his men until his last breath.
As a result of his courageous actions, the ambush was successfully repelled. The Indian soldiers killed six militants and captured three AK-47 rifles along with two rocket launchers.
For his exceptional bravery, leadership, and ultimate sacrifice, Major Ramaswamy Parameswaran was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest wartime gallantry award. He remains the only recipient of the PVC from OTA Chennai and the only one to receive it during Operation Pawan.
Manbilas Singh is a talented writer and journalist who focuses on the finer details in every story and values integrity above everything. A self-proclaimed sleuth, he strives to expose the fine print behind seemingly mundane activities and aims to uncover the truth that is hidden from the general public. In his time away from work, he is a music aficionado and a nerd who revels in video & board games, books and Formula 1.
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