A Soldier of 20 Dogra
Havildar Madan Lal Sharma of 20 Dogra was a dedicated soldier who had served in the Indian Army for nearly 17 years by 2016. In July that year, he was posted with 20 Dogra in Jammu and Kashmir, where the unit was deployed along the Line of Control and regularly carried out operations against infiltration.
On 20 September 2016, intelligence inputs indicated a possible infiltration attempt in the Nowgam sector of Kupwara district. A search and cordon operation was launched in the area, with Havildar Madan Lal Sharma among the soldiers tasked with carrying out the operation.
The Nowgam Operation
As the troops moved through the suspected area, the infiltrators opened fire from advantageous positions. Havildar Madan Lal Sharma and his comrades responded to the firing and continued the operation despite the danger.
During the exchange of fire, Havildar Madan Lal Sharma was critically wounded. He was evacuated for medical treatment, but his injuries proved fatal. On 20 September 2016, he made the supreme sacrifice in the Nowgam sector of Kupwara.
The Sena Medal
For his exceptional courage, devotion to duty and sacrifice during the operation, Havildar Madan Lal Sharma was awarded the Sena Medal posthumously. The award stands as recognition of his conduct during the operation in which he gave his life in the service of the nation.
A soldier from Gharota in Pathankot, Havildar Madan Lal Sharma left behind his family and a record of dedicated military service. His sacrifice in the Nowgam sector remains part of the history of 20 Dogra and the soldiers who served in Jammu and Kashmir.
On 20 September, The Honour Post pays tribute to Havildar Madan Lal Sharma for his courage, service and supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation.
