Nb Sub Khem Chand

Nb Subedar Khem Chand hailed from Saigaloo village in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, a region known for its rugged terrain and tradition of producing brave soldiers. Growing up in such an environment, he developed a deep admiration for the Armed Forces from an early age. Driven by this aspiration, he joined the Indian Army soon after completing his schooling. He was recruited into the Parachute Regiment, one of the most prestigious and battle-hardened regiments of the Indian Army, renowned for its elite paratroopers and their participation in high-risk and strategically critical operations. Eager to push his limits further and serve in a more demanding role, he volunteered for the Special Forces, the elite wing of the Parachute Regiment. The selection process for Special Forces is known to be one of the toughest in the military, testing not only physical stamina but also mental resilience and psychological strength. Successfully clearing this gruelling process and completing specialised training, he was inducted into 9 Para (Special Forces). Raised in 1966, the unit has earned a formidable reputation for its expertise in mountain warfare as well as counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.

Over the years, he gained extensive operational experience by serving in diverse and challenging terrains, further honing his skills as a soldier and leader. By 1999, he had rendered substantial years of distinguished service and had risen to the rank of Naib Subedar, a Junior Commissioned Officer position that carries significant responsibility. By this stage, he had evolved into a seasoned and dependable leader, respected by his peers and subordinates alike for his professionalism and combat experience. As the Kargil conflict began to unfold in early May 1999, his unit, 9 Para (Special Forces), was mobilised and moved to the Batalik sector—one of the key areas of intense combat. With his wealth of experience and steadfast commitment to duty, Nb Subedar Khem Chand stood ready to contribute to the operations, embodying the finest traditions of the Indian Army and the Special Forces.

Kargil War (Op Vijay): 01 July 1999

During June–July 1999, Nb Subedar Khem Chand’s unit, 9 Para (Special Forces), was deployed in the Mashkoh Sub Sector of Kargil in Jammu & Kashmir. During this period, 9 Para (Special Forces) was operating under the command of the 192 Mountain Brigade, led by Brigadier MPS Bajwa. The brigade was part of the 8 Mountain Division, commanded by Major General Mohinder Puri, which in turn functioned under the XV Corps, led by Lieutenant General Kishan Pal. The XV Corps was under the overall operational control of the Northern Command, commanded by Lieutenant General HM Khanna. During the intense operations of the Kargil War, the Mashkoh Sub Sector in Kargil became the setting for some of the most daring missions undertaken by the Indian Army. As part of this effort, a critical mission was assigned to capture Sando Top, a strategically important feature located at an altitude of approximately 5,250 meters. A 30-member team from 9 Para (Special Forces), including Nb Sub Khem Chand, was detailed for the operation. The assault team was tasked not only with securing the objective but also with paving the way for further advance towards the enemy’s logistics base. Nb Subedar Khem Chand, an experienced Junior Commissioned Officer, was part of the team in the mission. With years of operational experience across varied terrains, he provided steady leadership and vital combat support to the team. His calm presence, sound judgment, and professional competence strengthened the resolve of the assaulting troops as they prepared to undertake a perilous climb up near-vertical, snow-covered cliffs under constant threat of enemy observation and fire.

On the night of 30 June–01 July 1999, the team launched a daring cliff assault on Sando Top. Displaying exceptional mountaineering skills and tactical acumen, they negotiated treacherous terrain and, by 0530 hours on 01 July 1999, secured a tenuous foothold on a saddle just short of the objective. However, their advance soon drew intense and sustained enemy fire, placing the team in a highly vulnerable position. In the face of heavy resistance, Nb Sub Khem Chand remained actively engaged in the firefight. During this fierce exchange of fire, Nb Sub Khem Chand sustained grievous injuries. Even in a critically wounded state, he remained resolute, embodying the highest traditions of the Indian Army and the Special Forces. He eventually succumbed to his injuries on 01 July 1999, making the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. The operation itself was marked by extraordinary bravery and fierce combat, resulting in significant enemy casualties and preventing further threat to the assaulting troops. Alongside him, seven other brave soldiers of 9 Para (Special Forces) also made the supreme sacrifice— Havildar Hariom Singh, Naik Brij Mohan Singh, Naik Anil Singh, Naik Mangal Singh, Naik Radha Kumar V. N., Naik Lakhbir Singh, and Naik Hem Singh. Together, these valiant soldiers epitomised the highest ideals of the Indian Army—selfless service, unwavering courage, and ultimate sacrifice in the defence of the nation. Nb Subedar Khem Chand’s role in the operation reflected his leadership, professionalism, and deep sense of duty. 

Nb Subedar Khem Chand is survived by his wife, Smt Promila Devi.