Sepoy Manjit Singh of 17 Sikh Light Infantry made the supreme sacrifice on 30 October 2021 during an area-domination patrol in the Naushera sector of Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir. A mine blast struck the patrol along the Line of Control, leaving him critically injured. He was evacuated for medical treatment but later succumbed to his injuries.
From Sirvewala to the Indian Army
Manjit Singh hailed from Sirvewala village in Bathinda district, Punjab. He grew up with his siblings and pursued his ambition of joining the Indian Army after completing his education. He was recruited into 17 Sikh Light Infantry and undertook his responsibilities as a soldier in uniform.
The Sikh Light Infantry Regiment has a long history of service in the Indian Army. As a member of the regiment, Manjit Singh served in an environment where vigilance, discipline and readiness were essential to operational duties.
The Mine Blast in Naushera
In 2021, his unit was deployed in the Naushera sector of Rajouri district. The area along the Line of Control required sustained vigilance because of the risks posed by infiltration attempts and other security threats.
On 30 October, Manjit Singh was part of an area-domination patrol when a mine blast occurred. The explosion injured three Army personnel. Manjit Singh and Lieutenant Rishi Kumar were critically wounded and evacuated to Command Hospital in Udhampur for treatment.
Both soldiers later succumbed to their injuries. Their deaths brought grief to their families and fellow soldiers, and their sacrifice was acknowledged by the Indian Army.
Remembering His Sacrifice
Manjit Singh's death was a loss for his family and his village in Punjab. He had left home to serve in the Army and was carrying out his duties in a sensitive border sector when his life was cut short.
His story is a reminder that the risks of military service are not limited to major battles or large-scale operations. Soldiers deployed along the Line of Control undertake patrols and security tasks in terrain where hidden explosives and other dangers can threaten their lives.
The Honour Post pays tribute to Sepoy Manjit Singh of 17 Sikh Light Infantry for his service and the supreme sacrifice he made on 30 October 2021. His name is remembered alongside Lieutenant Rishi Kumar, who also succumbed to injuries in the same incident.
