Capt Shubham Gupta: Agra-born special forces officer's sacrifice in Rajouri leaves dreams shattered

Born in Agra, city of architectural marvels, Captain Shubham Gupta's journey from a young boy to a member of elite Parachute regiment is one of cour and dedication. Commissioned into esteemed 9 Para-SF in 2018, his life was tragically cut short in line of duty in Rajouri encounter. 

Captain Shubham Gupta, son of Agra’s District Government Counsel (Crime), Basant Kumar Gupta, was destined for greatness from very beginning. Born and raised in city of Taj, his love for nation and his dream to serve in Indian Army were nurtured by his family and surroundings. 

Even as a young boy, Captain Shubham Gupta exhibited qualities of cour, discipline, and a strong sense of duty. In 2015, Captain Shubham Gupta’s lifelong dream became a reality when he was selected to join Indian Army. His journey to becoming a member of esteemed Parachute regiment was filled with challenges and rigorous training. After years of perseverance and dedication, Captain Shubham Gupta proudly donned olive-green uniform in 2018, marking beginning of his remarkable military career. 

‘Men apart, every man an emperor’ 

Parachute regiment, also kwn as 9 Para SF (Special Forces), is revered as one of most elite units of Indian Army. Captain Shubham Gupta’s commission into 9 Para (Special Forces) was a testament to his exceptional skills and determination. As a member of this prestigious regiment, he underwent specialized training in various combat techniques, including airborne operations, counter-terrorism, and unconventional warfare.

Unfortunately, young officer’s life was cut short as he battled Pakistan-sponsored terrorists in thick jungles of Rajouri. In a targeted intelligence-based operation initiated by joint teams of 9^th Battalion Para (SF), 63^rd Battalion Rashtriya Rifles and Kashmir Police on vember 19, 2023, Kalakote Area within Gulabgarh forest in Rajouri District was cordoned and a combing operation initiated.  

engment with terrorists occurred on vember 22. 'An intense firefight ensued,' said Army officials, resulting in injuries to terrorists who are currently encircled. However, after contact was established with terrorists, Captain Subham Gupta sustained bullet wounds in ensuing firefight. 27-year-old officer displayed highest ethos of Indian Army during his last moments. tably, Captain Shubham was expected to be back home from deployment by first week of December. His parents, far Basant Gupta and mor Pushpa Gupta h plans to get him married soon but sudden trdy, although in line of duty, has shattered all plans.