Naib Subedar Raghav Prasad Pandey of 18 Rajput, The Rajput Regiment, made the supreme sacrifice on 11 September 1967 during the Nathu La operations in Sikkim. Serving with the Indian Army at Nathu La, he stood with his comrades during one of the most tense and demanding confrontations along India's northern frontier.
In September 1967, Indian Army troops were deployed at Nathu La as engineers worked to construct a wire obstacle along the border. The work was being carried out under the protection of Indian troops, including personnel of 18 Rajput and 2 Grenadiers. Naib Subedar Raghav Prasad Pandey was serving with 'A' Company of 18 Rajput during the operations.
The situation at Nathu La became increasingly tense as Indian and Chinese troops confronted one another. On 11 September, the confrontation escalated into intense firing, placing the Indian troops and engineers under heavy fire.
Courage at Nathu La
In the face of intense fire, Naib Subedar Raghav Prasad Pandey displayed exceptional courage and continued to perform his duty alongside his comrades. During the fierce action, he was severely wounded and later succumbed to his injuries, making the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation.
His courage and devotion to duty during the Nathu La operations were recognised with the Sena Medal, awarded posthumously. His name remains part of the proud history of the soldiers who stood firm at Nathu La during the tense events of 1967.
Naib Subedar Raghav Prasad Pandey's martyrdom represents the courage, determination and sense of duty that defined the Indian soldier at Nathu La. His sacrifice is remembered with honour as part of the history of the Indian Army and The Rajput Regiment.
We remember his courage.
We honour his martyrdom.
We preserve his story. 🇮🇳
Lest We Forget. 🇮🇳
