Lieutenant Colonel Ved Prakash Ghai MVC

Lieutenant Colonel Ved Prakash Ghai was born on 22 February 1935 in Dehradun, then part of Uttar Pradesh, to Smt. Dayawanti Ghai and Shri Desh Raj Ghai. From a young age, he displayed qualities of discipline, leadership, and determination—traits that later shaped his distinguished military career. He was commissioned into the 16 Madras Battalion of the Madras Regiment on 4 December 1954, marking the beginning of over two decades of dedicated service to the nation. Over the years, Lt Col Ghai served in various field and peace stations, gaining extensive operational experience. His professionalism and leadership skills earned him increasing responsibility within the regiment. In 1961, he was selected to serve as part of the Indian contingent in Congo during the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations. His role in this international mission not only reflected his competence as an officer but also contributed to strengthening India’s reputation as a trusted global peacekeeping force.

During the Indo–Pak War of 1971, Lt Col Ghai’s unit was deployed on the Western Front, where it took part in some of the fiercest engagements of the war. His battalion played a crucial role in the Battle of Basantar, one of the most decisive and strategically important battles of the conflict. The victory at Basantar significantly impacted the outcome of the war in the western sector, and Lt Col Ghai’s leadership during this period exemplified courage, tactical acumen, and unwavering commitment to duty.

Battle of Basantar: 15 Dec 1971

During the Indo-Pak War of 1971, Lieutenant Colonel Ved Prakash Ghai was commanding 16 Madras Battalion of the Madras Regiment deployed in the Shakargarh Sector on the Western Front during the Indo–Pak War of 1971. In the course of the critical Battle of the Basantar River, his battalion was tasked with crossing the river and breaching a heavily defended mine obstacle under intense enemy fire. Despite determined resistance and adverse conditions, the battalion successfully crossed the river and established itself on the far bank, securing a vital bridgehead of great tactical importance. No sooner had the position been consolidated than the enemy launched a series of fierce counter-attacks in an attempt to dislodge the Indian troops from the bridgehead. Throughout the night, Lieutenant Colonel Ghai displayed exceptional leadership by personally rallying his men, reorganising defences under fire, and inspiring his troops to beat back repeated enemy assaults. The battalion held firm despite continuous shelling and relentless pressure. At first light, the enemy renewed the offensive with even greater ferocity, this time supported by tanks. Having endured heavy bombardment throughout the night, the battalion had not yet fully reorganised. However, the moment the main axis of the enemy attack became clear, Lieutenant Colonel Ved Prakash Ghai, with complete disregard for his personal safety, moved forward to the forward company localities. Exposing himself to intense enemy fire, he moved fearlessly from one position to another, directing operations, issuing clear orders, and encouraging his men by his presence and calm leadership.

Inspired by his personal example, courage, and resolute leadership, the battalion, supported by tanks, mounted a determined defence and successfully repulsed the enemy counter-attacks, inflicting heavy casualties and destroying several enemy tanks. The bridgehead was firmly held, and the enemy’s attempts to regain the initiative were decisively thwarted. After stabilising the situation and ensuring that the battalion’s defences were secure, Lieutenant Colonel Ghai began returning to his headquarters. At this critical moment, he was grievously wounded by an enemy artillery shell. Despite being seriously injured, he refused immediate medical attention and continued to direct the battle, issuing instructions and maintaining control of the situation until his strength finally failed him. He later succumbed to his wounds on the battlefield, laying down his life in the line of duty. In this action, Lieutenant Colonel Ved Prakash Ghai displayed conspicuous gallantry, outstanding leadership, and an unyielding sense of duty. His supreme sacrifice and fearless devotion to his men exemplified the highest traditions of the Indian Army and remain a lasting inspiration to all who serve in uniform.

Lt Col Ved Prakash Ghai was given the nation’s second highest gallantry award  “Maha Vir Chakra” for his outstanding bravery, indomitable spirit and sacrifice.

The citation for the Maha Vir Chakra awarded to him reads :