New Delhi: Every year on October 27, India celebrates Infantry Day, a tribute to the arrival of the first Indian Army troops in Jammu and Kashmir in 1947. At the heart of this pivotal moment in history stands Lt Col Dewan Ranjit Rai, commanding officer of 1 Sikh Regiment, who led his men into the Valley to repel invading forces. Despite his decisive role in preserving Kashmir for India, his story remains one of quiet obscurity.
Early Life and Military Journey
Born on February 6, 1913, in Gujranwala, Punjab (now in Pakistan), Dewan Ranjit Rai showed a deep inclination toward the military from a young age. Educated at Bishop Cotton School, Shimla, he was part of the first batch of cadets to join the Indian Military Academy in 1932. Among his contemporaries were future military stalwarts like Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw and Kanhayya Lal Atal, both of whom would go on to play major roles in India’s military history.
Commissioned in 1935 with IC Number 12, Rai initially served with the King’s Shropshire Light Infantry before being posted to the 11th Sikh Regiment. His career saw him rise steadily through regimental ranks, eventually taking command of 1 Sikh. He was even shortlisted to serve as a military attaché in Washington, a posting fate never allowed him to take up.
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The Call to Defend Kashmir
When tribal invaders backed by Pakistan advanced into Jammu and Kashmir in October 1947, the Indian Army moved swiftly to respond. Although a Gorkha battalion was initially considered for deployment, Lord Mountbatten decided against it due to diplomatic concerns, leading to 1 Sikh being chosen as the nearest available unit.
Lt Col Rai received his orders on the night of October 26, directing him to secure Srinagar airfield, protect key installations, and support the local administration. Calm and confident, he led his troops aboard the first aircraft to land in Srinagar on October 27, making history as the first Indian commanding officer to set foot in Kashmir after accession.
A Gallant Stand and a Heroic Sacrifice
Upon securing the airfield, Rai realized that the enemy’s advance had to be halted before reinforcements arrived. Displaying exceptional leadership, he advanced towards Baramulla to intercept the raiders. Tragically, while directing his troops in a fierce engagement near Pattan, he was struck by a mortar shell and killed in action.
His sacrifice bought the Indian Army crucial time to establish control over Srinagar, ultimately turning the tide of the conflict. For his bravery and leadership, Lt Col Dewan Ranjit Rai was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, becoming Independent India’s first senior officer to fall in battle.
A Legacy That Deserves More Recognition
Beyond his military achievements, Lt Col Rai was known for his charm and grace, remembered as an exceptional dancer in the social circles of Lahore and Shimla. He left behind a son and a daughter, and a legacy etched in the soil of Kashmir he fought to defend.
On this Infantry Day, India honours his memory, a reminder of the courage, clarity, and sacrifice that defined the nation’s first great military victory.