Bengaluru: Kupwara in Kashmir had been a hotbed of terror. Deployment in the district required constant vigil. In 2005, Major Salman Ahmad was deputed to serve with the 6 Rashtriya Rifles battalion in Kupwara.

It was just the place for a determined soldier and a fine officer like Major Salman Ahmad Khan. Major Salman's unit was always in a high state of alert and carried out a number of operations to flush out terrorists.

On May 5, 2005, the unit received credible information from intelligence sources about the presence of terrorists in a village of Kupwara district.

After analyzing the situation, a decision was taken by the security forces to launch an operation to flush out the terrorists. 

The 6 RR unit swung into action and launched an operation in the wee hours of May 5.

The assault team cordoned off the area. On being challenged, the terrorists opened fire at the security troops and a fierce gunbattle ensued. 

Major Salman eliminated one terrorist in the gunbattle. He then chased another terrorist who was trying to flee. In the process, other terrorists hiding from a house opened fire at Major Salman with automatic weapons. 

The officer was seriously wounded. But despite his injuries, he lobbed a grenade at the second terrorist and killed him. 

Major Salman later succumbed to his injuries. He was a gallant and committed soldier who laid down his life in the service of the nation, following the highest traditions of the Indian Army. 

Major Salman Ahmad Khan was honoured with Shaurya Chakra posthumously. Flags of Honour salutes this officer for his outstanding courage, unyielding fighting spirit and supreme sacrifice.