Hav Trilok Singh Kathait KC

Havildar Trilok Singh Kathait was born in Nagli village, in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. He was the son of the late Shri Alam Singh Kathait. From a young age, he displayed a strong sense of duty and patriotism, which motivated him to serve the nation. After completing his school education, he decided to join the Indian Army to contribute to the defense of the country. He was recruited into the 3 Garhwal Rifles Battalion of the Garhwal Rifles Regiment, an esteemed infantry regiment of the Indian Army. The Garhwal Rifles Regiment is known for its gallant soldiers and has a long-standing history of battle honours, proving its mettle in various military engagements. The regiment has always been at the forefront of the Indian Army’s operations, earning a reputation for fearlessness and unwavering commitment.

After serving in the Army for a few years, Havildar Trilok Singh Kathait got married to Ms Kedari Devi. By 1957, he had completed a significant number of years in service and had been promoted to the rank of Havildar. By this time, he had developed into a seasoned soldier, demonstrating remarkable discipline, leadership, and resilience.

Naga Hills Operation: 08 May 1957

On 8th May 1957, Havildar Trilok Singh Kathait was commanding No. 5 Platoon of B Company, 3 Garhwal Rifles, which had been assigned a crucial operation in the Barail Range of the Naga Hills. The mission was to encircle a hostile camp, an objective that required precise planning, courage, and tactical acumen. Given the challenging terrain and the fortified enemy positions, the operation was fraught with danger from the outset. As Hav Kathait’s platoon led the advance, they suddenly came under heavy and sustained enemy fire from well-entrenched hostile positions. The Naga Hills posed a significant challenge, with rugged terrain and dense forest cover limiting mobility and tactical maneuverability. The platoon found itself in an extremely vulnerable position, with no room for an immediate flanking maneuver or reinforcement deployment.

Assessing the situation with remarkable clarity, Havildar Trilok Singh Kathait realized that a frontal assault was the only viable option to neutralize the threat. Without hesitation, he charged directly towards the enemy position, leading from the front with unparalleled bravery. His audacious charge, despite overwhelming enemy fire, inspired his men, and the entire platoon followed him with fierce determination and unyielding resolve. As they closed in on the enemy bunker, Hav Kathait was struck by a bullet in the chest, causing a grievous wound. However, even in his critically injured state, he displayed extraordinary resilience and presence of mind. Summoning his remaining strength, he hurled a hand grenade at the enemy post, dislodging the hostile forces and creating a crucial opening for his men to overrun the position. Despite his life-threatening injuries, Hav Kathait continued to encourage and exhort his men to press forward, ensuring that the assault did not lose momentum. His sheer determination and fearless leadership turned the tide of the battle, securing a critical victory for his company.

But for his unparalleled courage and selfless sacrifice, the situation could have turned dire for the entire company, leading to heavier casualties and potential mission failure. His heroic actions not only inspired his comrades but also upheld the highest traditions of valour and duty in the Indian Army. For his extraordinary bravery, leadership, and indomitable spirit, Havildar Trilok Singh Kathait was posthumously awarded the "Kirti Chakra", India's second highest peacetime gallantry award. 

Havildar Trilok Singh Kathait is survived by his wife Smt Kedari Devi.

The Citation for the "Kirti Chakra" awarded to him reads:

On 8th May 1957 Havildar Trilok Singh Kathait was com manding No. 5 Platoon of B Company. 3 Garhwal Rifles. which was ordered to cica a hostile camp on the Barail Range in the Naga Hills. Havildar Katliant's platoon was leading the advance when it came under heavy and sustained fire from hostles' dug in positions. The terrain was unsuitable for any further deployment and a deliberate change Was the only maneuver possible. Havildar Kathait concrrectly appreciating the situation charged the hostile post. On seeing The commander charging all alone the entire platoon followed him with great enthusiasm and vigor. On nearing the hostile post Havildar Kathait was shot through the chest but immediately thew a hand grenade, dislodging the hostiles. Even when lying critically wounded he kept exhorting his men to continue the assault.

But for this outstanding display of personal courage and leadership by Havildar Tiilok Singh Kathait, the situation would have been very difficult for the whole company and it would have suffered many additional casualties.