Capt. Manoj Pandey: Remembering the Khalubar hero on his birthday

By Ila Garg

Kargil War Heroes – Part 2

Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey was an officer of the Indian Army of the regiment 1/11 Gorkha Rifles. Hailing from Sitapur district in Uttar Pradesh, Captain Pandey was the valiant son of a small businessman, Shri Gopi Chand Pandey. Since childhood days, he had a keen interest in sports, particularly boxing and body building.

At t

he age of 24, Pandey chose to sacrifice his life during the Kargil war, instead of accepting defeat at the hands of the enemy. He was posted at Khalubar Hills, Batalik Sector. On 11 June 1999, he succeeded in forcing back the intruders from there. Then, he efficiently led his men to capture the Jubar top which was considered as important post during the war due to its strategic location. He had almost accomplished the objective when the enemy fired upon them. The attack could not stop Captain Pandey from surging ahead. Bullets were hailed at him, wounding him but he was determined. His courage acted as an inspiration for his troops who together marched ahead to claim the bunkers.

It was during Operation Vijay which involved reclaiming Jubbar Top, Khalubar Hills in Batalik Sector, that he breathed his last. His supreme sacrifice and undaunted courage is evident in his acts. He fought till the last breath, single-handedly killed two enemy soldiers and destroyed their positions with grenade.

He was awarded India's highest military honour, Param Vir Chakra for his courage during adverse times. His valour was much talked about. His family is proud of him and so is the nation.

Today on his birth anniversary, NewsGram presents some rare photographs of this brave-heart who left behind his mother, father and younger brother Manmohan Pandey for the sake of his nation and countrymen. Let us not forget what he did for our country. The tenacity which he showed, the tough fight that he gave, is exemplary.

Post Script: I thank Anasuya Mitra for letting me use these pictures. Also, I sincerely thank the Captain's parents – Smt. Mohini Pandey and Shri Gopi Chand Pandey.

More in this segment:

Kargil War Heroes – Part 1
Kargil War Heroes – Part 3
Kargil War Heroes – Part 4
Kargil War Heroes – Part 5
Kargil War Heroes – Part 6
Kargil War Heroes – Part 7
Kargil War Heroes – Part 8
Kargil War Heroes – Part 9
Kargil War Heroes – Part 10
Kargil War Heroes – Part 11
Kargil War Heroes – Part 12
Kargil War Heroes – Part 13
Kargil War Heroes – Part 14
Kargil War Heroes – Part 15