LEH, FEB 14: The Northern Command Investiture Ceremony was held at Mathura Cantonment on February 12 to recognize acts of gallantry, distinguished service, and exceptional unit performance in the Northern Theatre.
Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, VSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Northern Command, felicitated officers and soldiers for their bravery and dedication. A total of 38 Sena Medals (Gallantry), five Sena Medals (Distinguished), two Yudh Seva Medals, and ten Vishisht Seva Medals were awarded. Additionally, the GOC-in-C presented Unit Citations to formations that demonstrated professionalism and operational excellence under challenging conditions.
Addressing the gathering, Lt Gen Kumar commended the awardees for their courage and exemplary service. He also congratulated their families and urged all ranks to remain vigilant and prepared for security challenges.
Among the recipients was Major Prasoon Pandey of Ladakh Scouts, who risked his life to rescue a medical evacuation team during a UN peacekeeping mission. Major Laldingngheta of the Madras Regiment, despite sustaining severe injuries, led his troops in foiling an infiltration attempt. Captain Rohan Rabindra Hanagi from the Corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (EME) demonstrated remarkable bravery in the Siachen Glacier, ensuring the safe rescue of his team buried under twenty feet of snow.
Sepoy Tarachand Ranwa and Sepoy Muttu Sappuri of the Rashtriya Rifles displayed exceptional courage in counterterrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir, eliminating terrorists in high-risk engagements. Both were awarded the Sena Medal for Gallantry. In another act of valor, Naik Lalhmangaihsanga Chinzah of the Assam Regiment saved the life of his critically ill post commander under extreme conditions.
The Northern Command, with its ethos of ‘Always in Combat,’ remains the most operationally active command of the Indian Army, safeguarding India’s borders while countering terrorism. The Investiture Ceremony highlighted the dedication of its personnel and the challenges they navigate to maintain national security.
This year, the event was organized under the theme ‘Go Green,’ promoting environmental sustainability. Measures such as using recycled materials and employing CNG and electric vehicles were adopted, underscoring the Indian Army’s commitment to eco-friendly initiatives.
