Haneef Uddin, VrC

Biography

Captain Haneef Uddin was born into a culturally rich Delhi family and earned his science degree from Shivaji College, Delhi University, where he was titled 'Mr Shivaji' for his leadership and popularity. He joined the Indian Military Academy in 1996 and was commissioned in 1997. A cheerful, warm-hearted and highly motivating officer, he used music to boost troop morale in remote postings. During Operation Vijay on 6 June 1999, at 18,500 feet, he led a special mission patrol toward an enemy-held position near Turtuk. Advancing along a razor-sharp ridge in sub-zero temperatures, the patrol came within 200 metres of its objective when intense fire erupted. Despite grave injuries from enemy small-arms and artillery fire, he continued to return fire with determination, ensuring that his men were able to extricate themselves from the exposed position. He died protecting his team, just before turning 25, and was posthumously awarded the Vir Chakra.