Sep Deepak Galande

Sepoy Deepak Galande hailed from Jamkhandi village in Bagalkot district of Karnataka. Driven by an unwavering commitment to serving the nation, he joined the Indian Army after completing his school education. He was inducted into the 16 Maratha Light Infantry (16 MLI), embarking on a journey defined by courage and dedication. 

The Maratha Light Infantry, one of the Indian Army's oldest and most illustrious regiments, traces its origins to the 18th century. Renowned for its motto, “Duty, Honour, Courage,” and its soldiers' indomitable spirit, the regiment has played pivotal roles in numerous campaigns and operations, both before and after India's independence. Its storied history is adorned with accolades and battle honors, reflecting a legacy of valor and sacrifice.

Nagaland Operation: 20th Dec 1993

During 1993, Sep Deepak Galande's unit, 16 MLI, was deployed to Nagaland, a region grappling with insurgency and unrest. The northeastern states of India faced significant challenges from armed insurgent groups, necessitating a strong military presence to restore peace and stability. As part of Operation Orchid, the battalion undertook counter-insurgency operations in treacherous terrain under highly volatile conditions. On the morning of December 20, 1993, at approximately 8:40 a.m., the battalion’s convoy was ambushed on the Mokokchung-Mariani Road by a heavily armed group of insurgents. The attackers, numbering nearly 100, were equipped with sophisticated weapons, launching a fierce and well-coordinated assault.

Amid heavy enemy fire, Sepoy Deepak Galande displayed exceptional courage and resolve. He fought valiantly alongside his comrades, risking his life to protect his fellow soldiers and fulfill the mission. Despite sustaining grievous injuries, he continued to engage the enemy with unwavering determination until he breathed his last. The ambush claimed the lives of 14 brave soldiers, including the commanding officer, Colonel N Jayachandran Nair. The fallen heroes included Nb Sub Bhosale MS, Lance Naik Chougule JR, Lance Naik AG Jadhav, Naik Nikam Balu, Sepoy Ramesh S Kakade, Sepoy Pabale Nitin M, Sepoy Jadhav Gorakh N, Sepoy Patil Mahadev R, Sepoy Kulkarni NP, Sepoy Surender, and Sepoy Patil Subhash S. Their sacrifice underscored the extraordinary bravery and selflessness of the Indian Army's soldiers, who stand as guardians of the nation’s safety and sovereignty.