Bharat Maske, SM

Biography

Lance Naik Bharat Maske hailed from the Belgaum district of Karnataka and was born on 18th February 1972 to Shri Baban Narayan Maske and Smt Padmavati. After completing his school education, he joined the Indian Army on 27th August 1990 at the age of 18. He was recruited into the 5 Maratha Light Infantry battalion of the Maratha Light Infantry Regiment, an infantry regiment well known for its fearless soldiers. After completing his training, Lance Naik Maske was posted to Ladakh, where he took part in operations under "Op Rakshak". In 1997 he moved to the North-East and participated in operations under "Op Hifazat". After several years of service he was deputed to the 17 Rashtriya Rifles battalion deployed in Jammu & Kashmir for counter-insurgency operations. During 1999, his unit was operating in the Poonch sector, an area affected by active militancy, and its troops remained constantly on high alert even as the Kargil war unfolded elsewhere. On 20 July 1999, acting on specific intelligence about the presence of militants, the troops of 17 RR launched a search and cordon operation in a suspected area within their area of responsibility. Lance Naik Bharat Maske was part of the team entrusted with taking on the militants. On being challenged, the militants opened fire and a fierce gun-battle ensued. During the exchange, Lance Naik Maske was severely injured and was evacuated to hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds. A valiant and dedicated soldier, he laid down his life at the young age of 27 in the service of the nation. For his exceptional courage, devotion to duty and supreme sacrifice, he was awarded the Sena Medal.