Lance Naik Sanjaya Kumar Bag

Lance Naik Sanjaya Kumar Bagh hailed from Kudopali village in Bheden Tehsil of Bargarh district, Odisha. Growing up in a humble rural setting, he imbibed the values of discipline, perseverance, and responsibility from an early age. With a deep sense of patriotism and a desire to serve the nation, he chose to don the olive green uniform of the Indian Army — a decision that reflected both courage and commitment to the country’s security and honour. Upon successfully completing his rigorous military training, he was inducted into the 1861 Light Regiment of the Regiment of Artillery. The Regiment of Artillery, one of the Indian Army’s most formidable combat arms, plays a decisive role on the battlefield through its mastery of field guns, howitzers, and mortar systems. As a member of the 1861 Light Regiment, Lance Naik Sanjaya Kumar Bagh became part of a proud and time-honoured tradition of artillerymen distinguished by their technical excellence, precision, and steadfast dedication to duty.

Field Firing Exercise “Brazen Chariots”: 19 March 2008

In 2008, Lance Naik Sanjaya Kumar Bagh was serving with the 1861 Light Regiment, deployed in the challenging desert sector of western Rajasthan. The unforgiving terrain—marked by scorching temperatures, shifting sands, and vast open stretches—demanded exceptional stamina, coordination, and technical expertise from every soldier. To sustain operational excellence, the regiment routinely undertook extensive field exercises and live firing practices. On 19 March 2008, the unit participated in a major live demonstration, “Brazen Chariots,” at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Rajasthan. The event, witnessed by nearly 100 foreign military observers from around 60 countries, was organised to exhibit India’s combat readiness and military capability. The desert reverberated with the roar of tanks advancing across the sands and artillery guns firing in flawless coordination, reflecting the professionalism of the Indian Army.

Lance Naik Sanjaya Kumar Bagh was an integral member of a 120 mm mortar detachment of the 1861 Light Regiment. Known for his discipline, reliability, and composed demeanour, he was highly regarded within his unit. The mortar crew also included Havildar Mangu Singh, Gunner Ram Mehar, and other dedicated soldiers. Prior to commencing the live firing, the team carried out comprehensive briefings and meticulous safety inspections in strict adherence to artillery procedures. Once all checks were completed, the detachment moved into position and began firing 22 designated rounds as part of the demonstration. The mission progressed efficiently, with successive rounds accurately engaging their targets. However, during the firing of the 20th round, tragedy struck. A high-explosive fragmentation bomb malfunctioned and detonated prematurely inside the lower portion of the mortar barrel. The sudden and violent blast ripped through the detachment’s position, hurling lethal splinters in every direction. Lance Naik Sanjaya Kumar Bagh, Havildar Mangu Singh, and Gunner Ram Mehar sustained critical injuries in the explosion. Rescue teams responded immediately, and the injured soldiers were airlifted to the military hospital in Jodhpur for urgent treatment. Despite determined medical efforts, Lance Naik Sanjaya Kumar Bagh and his comrades succumbed to their injuries, making the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.

Hav Mangu Singh is survived by his mother, Smt Binodeni Bag.