Updates: Martyr Colonel Santosh Babu awarded Mahavir Chakra in Galwan attack, Vir Chakra to 4 martyrs

Colonel Santosh Babu, who was martyred in the Galwan attack, was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra posthumously today. It is the second highest military honor after the Param Vir Chakra. At the same time, Naib Subedar Nuduram Soren, Havildar K Pilani, Naik Deepak Singh and Sepoy Gurtej Singh, who were part of Operation Snow Leopard, were also awarded the Vir Chakra posthumously. 20 soldiers were martyred in a violent clash with China.

According to the Army Citation, Colonel Bikumala Santosh Babu of Bihar Regiment (16 Bihar) was expected to set up an observation-post as Commanding Officer (CO) during Operation Snow-Leopard in Galwan Valley of Eastern Ladakh on June 15, 2020. The responsibility was given.

Even in the face of violent and aggressive actions of enemy soldiers, he continued to oppose the enemy's attempt to push the Indian soldiers behind him, citing the true spirit of service before himself. Despite being seriously injured, he led the clash till his last breath.

According to the Army, Colonel Santosh Babu has been awarded the Maha Vir Chakra posthumously for his supreme sacrifice on the line of duty including conspicuous bravery, exemplary and efficient leadership against the enemy. Let us inform that Vir Chakra is also given for exemplary courage against the enemy in times of war or in unrest. Mahavir Chakra and Veer Chakra are also not given during peace time like Param Vir Chakra.