Paratrooper Bal Krishan, a fearless commando from the elite 4 Para (Special Forces) battalion of the Indian Army’s Parachute Regiment, exemplified extraordinary courage and dedication to duty. Born on February 15, 1995, in the serene village of Puid, Naggar Tehsil, Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh, he came from a region renowned for its hardy inhabitants and deep-rooted tradition of military service.
Joining the Indian Army at a young age, Bal Krishan underwent rigorous training and earned his place in one of the nation’s premier special forces units. The Para (SF) battalions are celebrated for their expertise in high-risk airborne operations, counter-terrorism missions, and unconventional warfare, often operating in the most challenging environments.
Tragically, at just 25 years old, Paratrooper Bal Krishan laid down his life on April 5, 2020, during Operation Randori Behak (also spelled Rangdori Behak or Randori Baihk) in the Keran sector of Kupwara district, Jammu & Kashmir. This intense counter-infiltration operation was launched to intercept and neutralize a group of heavily armed terrorists attempting to cross the Line of Control amid deep snow and treacherous high-altitude terrain.
Intelligence from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) detected the infiltration attempt in early April 2020. Initial contacts occurred on April 1–2, with troops from Rashtriya Rifles units engaging the intruders. As the terrorists evaded capture in the inaccessible, snow-bound mountains, the decision was made to deploy an elite team from 4 Para (SF) for a surprise assault. On April 4–5, a small team of commandos, led by Subedar Sanjiv Kumar and including Paratrooper Bal Krishan, was airdropped into the suspected area to gain the element of surprise.
The ensuing engagement unfolded in extreme close-quarters combat under brutal conditions, at altitudes between 8,000 and 11,000 feet. The commandos tracked the infiltrators through heavy snowfall and rugged ledges, ultimately confronting them in fierce hand-to-hand fighting. Despite sustaining grievous injuries—including gunshot wounds and fractures from falls on icy cornices—Paratrooper Bal Krishan displayed exceptional bravery, continuing to fight and motivate his comrades until his final moments. He succumbed to his wounds in the battle zone itself.
The operation resulted in the elimination of five hardcore terrorists (believed to be foreign militants linked to groups attempting infiltration during the COVID-19 period). However, it came at a heavy cost: five bravehearts from 4 Para (SF) made the supreme sacrifice that day:
- Subedar Sanjiv Kumar
- Havildar Devendra Singh
- Paratrooper Amit Kumar
- Paratrooper Chhatrapal Singh
- Paratrooper Bal Krishan
Their selfless actions thwarted a major security threat and prevented potential attacks deeper inside Indian territory. In recognition of his gallantry, unwavering devotion to duty, and ultimate sacrifice, Paratrooper Bal Krishan was posthumously awarded the Sena Medal on Republic Day, January 26, 2021.
Often remembered as a “nightmare for militants,” Paratrooper Bal Krishan remains an enduring symbol of valor within the Indian Army’s special forces fraternity. His story continues to inspire young aspirants dreaming of serving the nation, serving as a powerful reminder of the immense sacrifices made by India’s defenders to protect its sovereignty and peace.
Jai Hind. 🇮🇳🫡
About The Author
