Naik Amrit Lal Horo

Naik Amrit Lal Horo belonged to Jaltanda village in Ranchi district, Jharkhand. He joined the Indian Army shortly after completing his schooling, reflecting his deep sense of patriotism, discipline, and a commitment to serve the nation. His enlistment in the 8 Bihar Battalion of the Bihar Regiment marked the start of a commendable career in one of the Indian Army’s most renowned infantry units.

The Bihar Regiment, founded in 1941, stands as a beacon of courage and tradition within the Indian Army. Renowned for its rich history of gallantry and dedication, it has consistently exemplified exceptional loyalty and service to the nation. The regiment predominantly recruits soldiers from Bihar, Jharkhand, and Odisha—regions celebrated for their strong martial spirit and indomitable

Gurez Sector Avalanche: 17 Nov 2008

During 2008, Nk Amrit Lal Horo's unit 8 Bihar was deployed in J & K. The unit was deployed in Gurez Sector along the LOC and had to face extreme weather conditions specially during winter months. This region, notorious for its harsh terrain and extreme weather, presented formidable challenges, especially during the winter months. Temperatures would plummet, and the area would be blanketed by heavy snowfall, making even routine operations arduous and dangerous. The soldiers of the 8 Bihar Battalion were tasked with defending the LOC and maintaining surveillance over a strategic area prone to infiltration. They manned various forward posts, often operating in sub-zero temperatures. The troops had to undertake patrols between these posts to ensure the security of the sector, especially against potential threats from enemy forces. However, the unforgiving weather and unpredictable conditions added to the dangers they faced. Frequent heavy snowfall blocked roads, disrupted supply lines, and increased the risk of avalanches, a common and deadly hazard in the Gurez Sector.

On 16 November 2008, an 'Area Domination Patrol' from the battalion was assigned a crucial task to traverse a planned route in the snow-covered terrain. The patrol aimed to monitor and secure the area between the forward posts, a standard procedure to prevent any enemy movement and ensure the safety of the sector. However, as the patrol progressed, a sudden and massive avalanche struck with devastating force. The sheer magnitude and unpredictability of the avalanche left the soldiers with no time to react or take evasive action. Trapped under tons of snow, several brave soldiers of the unit went missing, buried deep beneath the icy debris. Upon receiving the distress call about the missing soldiers, a search and rescue operation was set under the leadership of Major Ajay Upreti. Known for his exemplary leadership and deep sense of responsibility towards his troops, Major Upreti swiftly assembled a rescue team, including the Ghatak Platoon Commander, Lieutenant Amit Beniwal, and led the mission himself. Nk Amrit Lal Horo was part of the assigned team. Time was of the essence, as survival chances in such situations could diminish rapidly due to the severe cold and lack of oxygen. Nk Amrit Lal and his comrades equipped with whatever gear was available, braved the blizzard-like conditions, navigating the treacherous snow-covered slopes. 

Despite the hostile weather and hazardous conditions, Nk Amrit Lal and the rescue team pressed forward with determination and courage. They navigated through the deep snow and treacherous slopes, displaying exceptional resolve in their efforts to locate and save their fellow soldiers. The urgency of the situation demanded immediate action, and the team showed remarkable coordination and leadership as they conducted the rescue operation. However, as they worked tirelessly the snow mass, loosened by the earlier avalanche and the unstable weather conditions, came down in a powerful surge. This sudden onslaught of snow buried the entire rescue team, including .Nk Amrit Lal Horo, Major Ajay Upreti, Lieutenant Amit Beniwal, and four other brave soldiers. Despite their heroic efforts, they were engulfed by the immense force of nature, buried under tons of snow. The brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice alongside Nk Amrit Lal Horo include Maj Ajay Upreti, Lt Amit Beniwal, Nk Kishore Dung, Nk Bhukhan Oraon, L/Nk Saiba Baskey, and Sep Chandan Kumar Jha. 

The sacrifice of Nk Amrit Lal Horo, alongside his comrades, serves as a profound reminder of the immense risks shouldered by Indian Army personnel operating in challenging and hostile conditions. Nk Amrit Lal Horo exemplified the true spirit of a soldier, placing the safety and welfare of his fellow soldiers above his own life. His selflessness and unwavering commitment embody the highest ideals of courage, duty, and sacrifice, defining what it truly means to serve the nation.

Naik Amrit Lal Horo is survived by his wife Smt Benadeth Horo.