TFI Series on PVC Awardees: The Story of Kargil War Hero Captain Manoj Pandey

Captain Manoj Pandey, a courageous Indian Army officer, demonstrated unparalleled courage and sacrifice during the 1999 Kargil War. He was born on June 25, 1975, in Rudha village, Sitapur district, Uttar Pradesh. Born to Shri Gopi Chand Pandey and Smt. Mohini Pandey, Manoj had two elder brothers, Mohit & Manmohan, and a sister, Pratibha. Since childhood, he had a fearless and determined attitude, which eventually became the motivation to join the armed forces.

Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey pursued his studies at the UP Sainik School, Lucknow, where his interest in the Indian Army developed. He performed well in his studies and sports, especially boxing and bodybuilding. Eager to serve the country, he was admitted to the National Defence Academy (NDA) as part of course 90 and subsequently went through rigorous training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun. On 7 June 1997, he was commissioned into the 1/11 Gorkha Rifles, a unit famous for its brave warriors.

During his Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, when asked why he wanted to join the Army, he replied, “I want to win the Param Vir Chakra.” True to his words, Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey posthumously received India’s highest gallantry award, the Param Vir Chakra, for his exceptional bravery in the Kargil War.

The Khalubar Ridge Operation

During the Kargil War in June-July 1999, Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey’s unit was deployed in the Batalik sector as part of Operation Vijay. Pakistani intruders had taken up key ridges, such as the heavily defended Khalubar Ridge, which was vital for Indian triumph.

During the night of July 2-3, 1999, Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey took his platoon to occupy the enemy-occupied bunkers on Khalubar Ridge. When they moved forward, they were subjected to intense enemy fire. Unfazed, he led the charge with his war cry, “Jai Mahakali, Aayo Gorkhali,” boldly eliminating two enemy bunkers. Despite receiving bullet injuries on his shoulder and legs, he pressed on, destroying the third bunker.

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He even led the last attack on the fourth bunker and destroyed it with a grenade. During this act of bravery, he was shot in the forehead but not before having captured a resounding victory for his battalion. His act motivated his fellow soldiers, who finally captured Khalubar Ridge, a turning point in the war. His unit had killed eleven enemy soldiers and captured precious weapons and ammunition during the operation.

Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey’s unflinching gallantry and highest sacrifice altered the destiny of the Kargil War. Posthumously, for his extreme bravery, leadership, and commitment to duty, he was decorated with the Param Vir Chakra.

In the memory of the brave Captain, a multipurpose stadium was inaugurated by the GOC of the Fire and Fury Corps at Garkhone in Kargil District of Ladakh. The stadium, built for community members of Aryan Valley, is dedicated to bravehearts of Operation Vijay.

Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey’s life and sacrifice are a standing tribute to the invincible mettle of the Indian Army, and his memory will keep living in the hearts of all Indians. His story reiterates that true heroes never pass away; they keep inspiring generations.