21 October 1962 | Remembering Naik Bahadur Singh
Naik Bahadur Singh of 6 Kumaon made the supreme sacrifice on 21 October 1962 during the Sino-Indian War at Walong, in present-day Arunachal Pradesh. He was posthumously awarded the Vir Chakra for his gallantry during the defence against Chinese attacks.
Born on 17 September 1931, Naik Bahadur Singh served with 6 Kumaon during the conflict in the eastern sector. The fighting around Walong became one of the significant engagements of the 1962 war, as Indian troops defended their positions against repeated Chinese assaults in difficult mountainous terrain.
Holding the position at Walong
The memorial account identifies Naik Bahadur Singh with the defence of Walong during the Chinese offensive. His gallantry account describes him taking over the light machine gun after members of his gun team had fallen and continuing to hold the position against repeated attacks.
He continued to engage the attacking forces until he was struck by enemy fire and made the supreme sacrifice. His actions demonstrated determination and courage under intense pressure while his position faced repeated assaults.
The defence of Walong required soldiers to maintain their positions in challenging terrain and under sustained attack. Naik Bahadur Singh's actions, as described in the gallantry account, form part of the record of the Indian Army's resistance during this battle.
Vir Chakra, posthumously
In recognition of his gallantry, Naik Bahadur Singh was awarded the Vir Chakra posthumously. His name is remembered among the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice during the 1962 war, and his story honours the courage shown by the personnel of 6 Kumaon at Walong.
The Honour Post pays tribute to Naik Bahadur Singh of 6 Kumaon, who made the supreme sacrifice on 21 October 1962 at Walong, Arunachal Pradesh. His courage, steadfastness and devotion to duty remain worthy of the nation's lasting respect.
