Lance Naik Bikram Tudu SM

Lance Naik Bikram Tudu hailed from Morada town in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha. Born to parents who instilled in him the values of discipline, courage, and service to the nation, he grew up with a strong sense of duty. After completing his schooling, he was driven by deep desire to serve his country. This unwavering commitment led him to join the Indian Army, where he was recruited into the 1st Battalion of the Bihar Regiment (1 BIHAR)—a regiment renowned for its illustrious history and numerous battle honors.

Following his enlistment, Lance Naik Bikram Tudu underwent rigorous military training at the Bihar Regimental Centre, where he honed his combat skills, endurance, and leadership abilities. His dedication, and discipline earned him respect among his peers and superiors alike. Over the years, he displayed commendable courage and determination, steadily rising through the ranks. By 1994, he had gained substantial experience and was promoted to the rank of Lance Naik in recognition of his unwavering dedication and service.

United Nations Peacekeeping Mission (Somalia): 28 Mar 1994

During 1994, Lance Naik Bikram Tudu, along with his battalion, was deployed as part of the United Nations Operation in Somalia-II (UNOSOM-II)—a mission aimed at restoring peace and stability in the war-torn nation. The operation posed extreme challenges, as Somalia was plagued by civil unrest, armed militias, and lawlessness, making peacekeeping efforts highly dangerous. On March 28, 1994, Lance Naik Bikram Tudu and his comrade, Lance Havildar Theophil Tiru, were assigned to escort a UNICEF (United Nations International Children's Fund) vehicle in the strategic southern port city of Kismayo, Somalia. Their mission was critical in ensuring the safe movement of UNICEF personnel, who were working to provide humanitarian aid to the vulnerable population amidst the ongoing conflict.

While moving from one secured compound to another, their convoy encountered an unexpected threat when two armed Somali militants signaled them to stop. Sensing imminent danger to the UNICEF personnel, Lance Naik Bikram Tudu immediately took a defensive stance, preparing to counter any hostile action. As the situation escalated, a group of twelve to fourteen heavily armed Somali militants ambushed the convoy, opening fire from multiple directions. Lance Naik Bikram Tudu displayed remarkable courage and instantly retaliated, engaging the assailants with fierce counterfire. Despite being under heavy gunfire, he continued to fight back, providing cover for the vehicle and ensuring the safety of the personnel inside. His comrade, Lance Havildar Theophil Tiru, also fought valiantly, leaping out of the slow-moving vehicle to confront the attackers directly. During the intense firefight, Lance Naik Bikram Tudu was hit by enemy bullets and sustained fatal injuries, yet he fought until his last breath, demonstrating unwavering commitment to his duty.

Even as he fell, his bravery and selfless sacrifice gave crucial time for the convoy to maneuver, preventing the militants from succeeding in their attack. His comrade, Lance Havildar Theophil Tiru, continued the fight despite being critically wounded, eventually succumbing to his injuries after receiving multiple gunshot wounds. In recognition of his exceptional courage and sacrifice, Lance Naik Bikram Tudu was posthumously awarded the Sena Medal, honouring his heroism in the face of grave danger. His comrade, Lance Havildar Theophil Tiru, was posthumously awarded the Shaurya Chakra, India’s third-highest peacetime gallantry award. The heroic actions of Lance Naik Bikram Tudu not only saved lives but also upheld the honour and integrity of the Indian Army. 

Lance Naik Bikram Tudu is survivedcby his wife Smt Bija Marandi.