Havildar Madan Lal Sharma of 20 Dogra made the supreme sacrifice on 20 September 2016 during an anti-infiltration operation in the Nowgam sector of Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir.
Service and Duty
Born on 4 February 1979, Havildar Madan Lal Sharma hailed from Gharota village in Pathankot district of Punjab. He joined the Indian Army in August 1999 and was initially recruited into 5 Dogra. By 2016, he had completed nearly 17 years of service and had been deputed to 20 Dogra in July that year.
The Nowgam Operation
On 20 September 2016, 20 Dogra received intelligence regarding a possible infiltration attempt in the Nowgam sector of Kupwara. A search and cordon operation was launched in the suspected area, and Havildar Madan Lal Sharma was part of the team assigned the task.
As the operation progressed, terrorists opened fire on the troops from advantageous positions. Havildar Madan Lal Sharma and his comrades responded to the firing and continued the operation.
During the exchange of fire, he sustained a bullet injury and was critically wounded. He was evacuated for treatment but succumbed to his injuries.
The Final Sacrifice
Havildar Madan Lal Sharma made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty on 20 September 2016.
For his courage, devotion to duty and sacrifice during the operation, he was awarded the Sena Medal posthumously.
His service and sacrifice will always be remembered.
