Lance Naik Prem Pal VrC

Lance Naik Prem Pal was born in Ram Mairajo village of Thano Tehsil in Badaun district, Uttar Pradesh. He was the son of Shri Veer Shay and Smt Rampyari Devi, who instilled in him a strong sense of duty and resilience from an early age. Growing up in a humble and close-knit family, he exhibited a deep passion for serving in the armed forces from his childhood. Inspired by the bravery and honour associated with the Indian Army, he aspired to don the uniform and protect the nation's sovereignty. After completing his education, Lance Naik Prem Pal realized his dream of serving in the Army. His dedication and determination led to his recruitment into the 19 Garhwal Rifles, a battalion of the Garhwal Rifles Regiment, one of the Indian Army's most illustrious and battle-hardened infantry regiments. The Garhwal Rifles has a rich legacy of courage, sacrifice, and commitment, and Lance Naik Prem Pal embraced the ethos of his regiment with pride and dedication.

Known for their steadfastness and valour, the soldiers of the Garhwal Rifles have been an integral part of India's military history. Lance Naik Prem Pal trained rigorously and developed into a disciplined and capable soldier, ready to serve in challenging and demanding conditions. His sense of duty and camaraderie made him a respected member of his battalion. After serving in the Army for some time, Lance Naik Prem Pal married Ms Shanti Devi, who hailed from Uttar Pradesh. Their union brought joy and stability to his life, and despite the demands of military service, he remained a devoted husband. His family and fellow villagers took immense pride in his role as a soldier, and he became an inspiration to many in his community.

On 27 July 1998, Lance Naik Prem Pal was deployed in the Batalik sector of J&K, a region experiencing intense enemy artillery and small arms fire. The Line of Control (LoC) has historically been one of the most volatile and sensitive military frontiers, witnessing frequent ceasefire violations and hostilities between India and Pakistan. The year 1998 was no exception, as the border remained highly active and unpredictable, with unprovoked firing and skirmishes occurring without prior warning. Despite existing ceasefire agreements, Pakistani forces routinely violated the truce, engaging in aggressive cross-border firing aimed at destabilizing the region. These violations not only escalated tensions between the two nations but also posed a constant threat to Indian troops and civilians residing in border villages. On 27 July 1998, in yet another flagrant breach of the ceasefire, Pakistani troops launched unprovoked fire in the Batalik sector along the LoC. 

During an engagement, Lance Naik Prem Pal's post came under sustained and heavy fire from three well-entrenched enemy positions. The dire situation required immediate resupply of ammunition for the Automatic Grenade Launcher (AGL), as stocks were depleting rapidly. Demonstrating exemplary courage and selflessness, Lance Naik Prem Pal volunteered to replenish the ammunition. Braving withering enemy fire, he moved out of cover and was hit by an artillery splinter in the thigh. Despite his injury, he received first aid and chose to venture out once again to complete the critical task. His unwavering determination ensured the continued operation of the AGL, which was vital for the defense of the post.

At approximately 1345 hours, the post faced an even graver threat when an enemy shell struck the kerosene barrels, causing a fire that began spreading dangerously toward the ammunition bunker. Realizing the imminent risk of catastrophic explosions, Lance Naik Prem Pal preempted the danger and took swift action. Running out into the open under intense enemy machine gun and artillery fire, he focused on extinguishing the flames. In this act of extraordinary bravery, he was hit by a burst of enemy machine gun fire on his right shoulder. Undeterred by his injuries, Lance Naik Prem Pal persisted and successfully put out the flames, averting a potentially disastrous situation. While crawling back to his shelter, Lance Naik Prem Pal was struck directly by an enemy artillery shell. He succumbed to his injuries instantaneously, making the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. Lance Naik Prem Pal was a courageous and devoted soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, exemplifying unwavering dedication to the nation. In recognition of his extraordinary bravery, indomitable fighting spirit, and selfless service during the operation, he was posthumously honoured with the prestigious "Vir Chakra".

Lance Naik Prem Pal is survived by his wife Smt Shanti Devi.