Lance Naik Santosh Kumar P K SM

Lance Naik Santosh Kumar P. K., born in 1966, hailed from Vazhakulam village in Ernakulam district, Kerala—a region celebrated for its vibrant culture and proud tradition of contributing valiant soldiers to the Armed Forces. From a young age, Lance Naik Santosh was deeply inspired by the discipline, honour, and sense of duty exemplified by the Indian Army. After completing his schooling, Lance Naik Santosh pursued this dream with determination and, on 1st October 1984, realized his ambition when he was recruited into the Indian Army. He was inducted into the 93 Field Regiment of the Regiment of Artillery, a crucial combat support arm renowned for its powerful field guns and decisive role in shaping the battlefield.

The Regiment of Artillery comprises diverse units, including Medium, Light, Missile, Rocket, and SATA (Surveillance and Target Acquisition) Regiments—each equipped with specialized weaponry tailored for specific operational needs. Within this distinguished corps, Lance Naik Santosh applied himself wholeheartedly to mastering his craft. Through rigorous training and unwavering dedication, he earned a reputation as a skilled and dependable gunner, proficient in operating the field guns that formed the backbone of his regiment’s firepower. Over the years, Lance Naik Santosh’s career reflected commitment, professionalism, and steady growth. He served in multiple postings and operational environments, gaining valuable experience and respect among his comrades.

In 1993, he entered a new chapter in his personal life when he married Ms. Priya K. G. By 1999, after 15 years of exemplary service, he had made significant contributions to the nation’s defense, participating in several key operations: Operation Trident (1987), Operation Pawan (1987–1990), Operation Rakshak (1994–1995), and Operation Vijay (1995–1999). In recognition of his service, he was awarded the Videsh Seva Medal, Special Service Medal, Nine Years Long Service Medal, and the 50th Independence Anniversary Medal. Notably, he was deployed in Sri Lanka as part of Operation Pawan, where the Indian Peace Keeping Force intervened during the civil conflict—further demonstrating his courage and devotion to duty.

Battle of Point 5285 (Batalik Sector: Kargil War): 06 Jul 1999

In May 1999, the Indian Army uncovered a large-scale infiltration by Pakistani troops and paramilitary forces aross the Line of Control (LOC) in the Kargil region of Jammu and Kashmir. The intrusion, aimed at seizing key positions overlooking vital supply routes, threatened India’s territorial integrity. In response, the Army launched Operation Vijay, a massive counter-offensive to drive out the intruders and reclaim the occupied heights. Lance Naik Santosh Kumar’s unit, the 93 Field Regiment of the Regiment of Artillery, was mobilized as part of this operation. Deployed in the Batalik sector—a region infamous for its treacherous terrain, extreme weather conditions, and high-altitude peaks soaring beyond 16,000 feet—the regiment played a pivotal role in supporting infantry units. Their mission was to deliver precise and sustained artillery fire, neutralize enemy positions, and prevent further infiltration by Pakistani forces.

The regiment functioned under the operational control of the 70 Infantry Brigade, which in turn reported to the 3 Infantry Division. In this challenging sector, Captain RA Rajmannar of the 301 Light Regiment was employed as the Forward Observation Officer (FOO) for the capture of Bump 1 and Point 5285. To execute these operations effectively, 93 Field Regiment provided essential artillery support. On 6 July 1999, Lance Naik Santosh Kumar was part of a dedicated team tasked with providing critical fire support to advancing infantry units. Suddenly, the position came under intense and accurate enemy shelling, as Pakistani forces unleashed a heavy bombardment of mortars and rocket-propelled grenades in an attempt to disrupt and overwhelm the Indian defenses. In the midst of the chaos, many soldiers were wounded, including Lance Naik Santosh Kumar, who suffered multiple grievous injuries. Despite being gravely wounded and surrounded by relentless enemy fire, he demonstrated extraordinary courage and resolve. Braving sub-zero temperatures and the rugged, snow-covered terrain at an altitude of 16,500 feet, he continued to assist his Forward Observation Officer, relaying vital technical data required to maintain highly accurate and rapid artillery fire on the enemy positions.

His unwavering commitment and presence of mind ensured that the artillery support remained effective, contributing significantly to holding the position under impossible odds. Lance Naik Santosh Kumar eventually succumbed to his injuries, making the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. For his conspicuous bravery, unwavering devotion to duty, and supreme sacrifice, Lance Naik Santosh Kumar was posthumously awarded the Sena Medal—one of India’s prestigious gallantry awards.

Lance Naik Santosh Kumar is survived by his mother, Smt. Lakshmi Amma, wife, Smt. Priya K.G., and his son, Arjun.