Nb Sub Chander Singh KC

Naib Subedar Chander Singh hailed from Kutri village in Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, a state known for producing some of India’s bravest soldiers. He completed his initial education in his hometown, where he was known for his determination and hardworking nature. Driven by a deep-seated desire to serve the nation, Nb Sub Chander Singh chose to pursue a career in the armed forces. His passion and dedication led him to join the Indian Army, where he was recruited into the 17 Assam Rifles Battalion, a unit of the Assam Rifles, the oldest paramilitary force in India. Established in 1835, the Assam Rifles has played a pivotal role in maintaining internal security, conducting counter-insurgency operations, and defending India's northeastern frontiers. With its headquarters at Shillong, the force has a rich history of valiant service and gallantry.

Through rigorous training and years of dedicated service, Naib Subedar Chander Singh rose through the ranks, proving his mettle as a skilled soldier and leader. His commitment to duty and excellence earned him the opportunity to be part of several challenging missions. His unwavering spirit and passion for adventure eventually led him to a prestigious assignment—an expedition to Mount Kanchenjunga, India's highest peak and the third-highest mountain in the world. His participation in this expedition would test not only his physical endurance but also his mental strength and courage, ultimately marking his name in the annals of history.

Mount Kanchenjunga Expedition: 31 May 1987

The citation for "Kirti Chakra" awarded to him reads:

Naib Subedar Chander Singh, 17 Assam Rifles, was a member of the expedition to Mount Kanchenjunga, highest peak in India. first summit party led by late Shri Phu Dorjee left for the summit. on 24th May, 1987. Thereafter, there was no radio contact and the party never retumed. The monsoon was predicted a few days hence. The weather was most erratic. The success of the expedition lay in the hands of the second summit party. It is against such heavy odds that Naib. Subedar Chander Singh was selected to be a member of the second summit party. The team started on 30th May, 1987 but. narrowly missed success after a 17 hour long gruelling climb. the 31st May, 1987 the party was led by Naid Subedar Chander Singh. It was a desperate race against time and grim reality of the monsoon Just few days hence.

After having climbed for about seven hours one of the members of the team Rifleman Norden Lepcha slipped and fell down but was miraculously saved by Naib Subedar Ghale and Niab Subedar Chander Singh. This set back did not wane the spirit of the other members and the party scaled the summit at 1430 hours without oxygen and unfurled the Indian National tricolour on the summit. Unfortunately, while getting ready to descend, Naib Subedar Chander Singh lost balance and fell down Yalung glacier of Nepal and met with an icy death. Naib Subedar Chander Singh displayed indomitable courage and tenacity of purpose against heavy odds.