
Major Rama Raghoba Rane - the PVC awardee almost no one knows of
Major Raghoba Rane was one of India's earliest and most distinguished war heroes, awarded the Param Vir Chakra, the nation's highest wartime gallantry award. He was born to a Konkani Maratha family on 26 June 1918 During the 1947–48 India–Pakistan War in Jammu and Kashmir, then Second Lieutenant Raghoba Rane of the Bombay Sappers displayed exceptional courage by leading his team in clearing mines, roadblocks, and other obstacles under intense enemy fire. Despite being wounded, he continued the mission for several days, enabling Indian tanks and troops to advance and helping secure the strategic route to Rajouri. His remarkable bravery, determination, and devotion to duty played a crucial role in the success of the operation, making him one of the first recipients of the Param Vir Chakra and a lasting symbol of courage in the Indian Army.