Major Mohit Sharma: The Legend of ‘Iftikhar Bhatt’ Who Became India’s Silent Shadow Warrior
In the long list of India’s military heroes, Major Mohit Sharma, AC (Posthumous), stands out as a rare figure whose courage was matched only by his extraordinary ability to walk unnoticed into the heart of enemy territory. Known by his undercover identity “Iftikhar Bhatt”, he was not just an officer of the Indian Army—he was a symbol of stealth, sacrifice, and supreme patriotism.
Born on 13 January 1978 in Rohtak, Haryana, Mohit Sharma grew up with a dream that shaped every decision of his life—to serve and protect India. His family remembers him as a disciplined child, a brilliant student, and someone who always took responsibility early. His calm demeanour, sharp intellect, and ability to inspire others made him naturally suited for a life of leadership and service.
His journey to the uniform began at the National Defence Academy (NDA), where he joined the 98th course in the Echo Squadron. He was admired for balancing physical toughness with strategic thinking—qualities that later defined his counter-insurgency operations. After completing his NDA and IMA training, he was commissioned into the prestigious 1st Battalion of the Parachute Regiment (1 Para SF), one of India’s most elite Special Forces units.
Life in the Para SF is not for the faint-hearted. The selection process is notoriously brutal—often called one of the toughest in the world—and Mohit passed it with sheer grit. He earned his Balidan Badge, marking him as one of the few soldiers capable of executing missions behind enemy lines, undertaking secret reconnaissance, and neutralising threats before they ever reached Indian civilians.
But it was his undercover operation as “Iftikhar Bhatt” that remains one of the most extraordinary feats in Indian military history.
The Infiltrator Who Beat Terrorists at Their Own Game
During a dangerous phase of insurgency in Kashmir, the Army needed officers who could think like the enemy, blend into hostile environments, and gather intelligence on terrorist networks. Mohit Sharma volunteered.
Taking on the alias “Iftikhar Bhatt,” a Kashmiri youth, he entered the Valley alone, cut off from his unit and family. His job was not just to blend in—it was to gain the trust of terrorists themselves. Operating without backup, he spent months gathering ground intelligence that later helped the Army neutralise multiple high-profile militants and dismantle terror cells.
This operation was so secret that even many within the Army did not know about it until much later. Such missions require impeccable acting skills, fluency in local languages, and nerves of steel—because one mistake means instant death. Major Mohit Sharma executed it flawlessly.
For this operation, he was awarded the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Card.
Return to Active SF Operations
After the undercover mission, he returned to his battalion and continued to lead high-risk operations in Jammu & Kashmir. His leadership style was distinctive—he always placed himself at the front and insisted on protecting his men above himself. His juniors remember him as an officer who always volunteered for the hardest task and never sought recognition.
His courage and success in anti-terror missions earned him a second COAS Commendation Card—a rare achievement for such a young officer.
Operation in Kupwara: The Final Battle (21 March 2009)
In early 2009, reports emerged of heavily armed terrorists attempting to infiltrate across the Line of Control in the Haphruda Forest of Kupwara. Major Mohit Sharma, then serving with 1 Para SF, led a team of elite commandos to intercept them.
The terrain was extremely hostile—dense forests, steep slopes, limited visibility. The terrorists were well-equipped and familiar with the terrain. But Mohit’s experience and instinct gave his team the upper hand.
During the operation:
- He personally engaged and eliminated four terrorists at close range.
- Despite being critically injured early in the encounter, he refused to withdraw.
- He continued directing his team, shielding a wounded soldier, and maintaining tactical superiority.
- Even in his final moments, he neutralised another terrorist, preventing him from throwing a grenade at the Indian team.
He succumbed to his injuries on 21 March 2009, but not before ensuring the complete success of the mission.
His actions saved the lives of his men and protected the region from a major infiltration attempt.
Ashoka Chakra: India’s Highest Peacetime Gallantry Award
For his unmatched bravery, fearless leadership, and supreme sacrifice, Major Mohit Sharma was awarded the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry honour, on 26 January 2010. His citation highlights his:
- Exceptional tactical brilliance
- Voluntary leadership in extreme danger
- Selfless commitment to rescuing his fellow soldiers
- Ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty
His family received the award on his behalf, with his mother standing tall with pride and pain.
Legacy of a True Special Forces Hero
Major Mohit Sharma’s life continues to inspire generations:
- Schools, roads, and military events across India honour his name.
- His story is taught to young officers at NDA and IMA.
- Numerous documentaries and books highlight his undercover operation as “Iftikhar Bhatt.”
- He is considered one of the finest Special Forces operators India has ever produced.
More than his awards, it is his mindset that defines his legacy. He believed that a soldier’s real identity is not in the medals he wears, but in the lives he protects. His humility, bravery, and devotion make him a timeless example of the Indian soldier’s spirit.
His story reminds us that true patriots do not seek applause—they walk in shadows, fight in silence, and give their lives so the nation can sleep peacefully.
Conclusion
Major Mohit Sharma was not merely a soldier; he was a one-man army, a strategist, a silent protector, and a national hero whose courage transcends time. His undercover mission, his leadership in Special Forces, and his supreme sacrifice cement his place among India’s greatest warriors.
India sleeps safer because men like Major Mohit Sharma once walked its soil—fearless, determined, and immortal.
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