20 October 1962 | A brave defender of India's frontier
On 20 October 1962, Rifleman Neelam Tebi of 5 Assam Rifles made the supreme sacrifice while defending Kinjamani Post in the Tawang sector during the India-China War. His courage under intense enemy fire became an enduring part of the history of India's frontier defence.
Early Life and Service
Rifleman Neelam Tebi was born on 4 November 1941 in Deed village, in present-day Lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh. His father was Neelam Tath. He enrolled in Assam Rifles on 4 November 1958 and was assigned to 5 Assam Rifles.
At a young age, he found himself serving in a strategically important Himalayan region. The remote frontier posts around Tawang required personnel to remain alert in difficult terrain and severe weather conditions.
The Defence of Kinjamani Post
On 20 October 1962, Chinese forces launched a major attack across several positions along the frontier. Rifleman Neelam Tebi's platoon was deployed at Kinjamani Post, north of Tawang, where Indian personnel came under sustained attack.
Accounts of the battle describe Rifleman Tebi covering an approach to the post with accurate rifle fire. Although wounded, he continued engaging the advancing enemy. He reportedly bandaged his wound himself and refused evacuation, choosing to remain at his position and continue defending the post.
As the attack intensified and enemy troops advanced towards the position, Rifleman Neelam Tebi made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation. His actions demonstrated extraordinary determination and devotion to duty in the face of overwhelming danger.
A Legacy Remembered
For decades, Rifleman Neelam Tebi's story received limited public recognition. His sacrifice has since been brought to wider attention in Arunachal Pradesh. His name is recorded at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, and his bravery is remembered at war memorials in the Tawang region.
His story stands as a reminder that the defence of India's frontiers has depended on soldiers who held their positions under the most difficult circumstances, often far from public attention.
The Honour Post pays tribute to Rifleman Neelam Tebi of 5 Assam Rifles, who made the supreme sacrifice on 20 October 1962 while defending Kinjamani Post. His courage, steadfastness and devotion to duty will be remembered with honour and gratitude.
