From Bengaluru to Battlefield: Final call of duty for Sergeant Surendra Kumar Moga

Time of India

10-05-2025

Jhunjhunu: In the quiet village of Mehradasi, Jhunjhunu, a widow mother sits unaware that her son has made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. Sergeant Surendra Kumar Moga (36), a medical assistant in the Indian Army, had dreams of retiring in two years and pursuing administrative services. But fate had other plans.
Just days ago, Surendra had sent his wife Seema and their two young children, 11-year-old Vartika and 7-year-old Daksh, back to their village as he answered the call of duty in Udhampur. He was stationed at Bengaluru, where he lived with his family, but due to Indo-Pak conflict, he was called to Udhampur just four days ago. It was a decision that would forever change their lives.
The house he recently built in Mehradasi stands empty, waiting for a housewarming ceremony that Surendra planned for in the coming days. Now, it stands as a testament to unfulfilled dreams and promises.
"He was so excited about moving into the new house with his family," said Sarpanch Omprakash, his voice heavy with emotion.
The tragic news of his martyrdom while stationed at the 39 Wing in Udhampur sent shockwaves through the village Saturday, leaving behind a grieving family and a community united in remembrance.
As the villagers gathered to mourn, district collector Ramavatar Meena and SP Sharad Chaudhary visited the grieving relatives to offer their condolences.
Brig VS Rathore (retd), director of Sainik Kalyan Vibhag, told TOI that Seargant Surendra attained martyrdom following the enemy action in Udhampur. "Sergeant Surendra was part of 36 Wing, Indian Air Force, and his mortal remains will reach Mehradasi village, Jhunjhunu around 10am Sunday," Rathore said.
Surendra was more than just a soldier; he was a loving father, a devoted husband and the only brother to three sisters, all elder to him.
Following in his father's footsteps, who had served in the CRPF and passed away recently, Surendra had dedicated 15 years of his life to serving the nation. His mother Nanu Devi (65) has not been informed about her son's death considering her age and ill-health.
The emotional toll was palpable, especially for Seema, who fell ill upon hearing the heartbreaking news and was admitted to a hospital at Nawalgarh for treatment.
From Bangalore she had headed straight to her parental home in Balaria near Mukundgarh, as her grandfather had passed away recently. The community has rallied around her, with a medical team deployed to ensure the family is supported during this difficult time. Yet, amidst the grief, there is pride. "He died protecting our country," said former Sarpanch Sajjan Poonia, "He lived like a hero and died like one."
As the village awaits the arrival of their beloved son's mortal remains, preparations are underway for a state funeral. The body is expected to arrive late Saturday night or by Sunday morning, contingent on flight schedules from Jammu after the ceasefire. The empty streets of Mehradasi will soon fill with people paying their final respects to a man who gave his life in service of his nation.