In a heartwarming gesture of respect and care, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi visited the esteemed Param Vir Chakra awardee Honorary Captain Bana Singh at the Army Hospital (Research and Referral) in New Delhi. Singh, a celebrated figure in Indian military history, was admitted to the prestigious facility a few days prior, prompting the Army chief to make a personal visit to inquire about his health and wellbeing.
Bana Singh, now 75 years old, is renowned for his extraordinary bravery during the 1987 operations in Siachen Glacier, where he led a daring mission to capture Quaid Post. This strategic location, situated at a staggering altitude of 21,153 feet, posed significant challenges due to its treacherous terrain and hostile weather conditions. Singh’s citation highlights the daunting nature of the operation, describing how the steep ice-wall of Quaid Post allowed for a dominant defensive position, enabling defenders to target any adversaries attempting to ascend.
In June 1987, Singh, then serving as a Naib Subedar, volunteered for a special task force aimed at seizing this critical position. Alongside four fellow soldiers, he embarked on a perilous ascent up the steep ice, while other battalion members drew the attention of Pakistani forces. Despite facing intense cold that rendered their weapons ineffective, Singh and his team persevered, ultimately leading to the successful capture of Quaid Post. For his valor and exceptional leadership during this operation, Singh was bestowed with India’s highest military honor, the Param Vir Chakra.
Born to Amar Singh and Bholi Devi in Kadyal village, Jammu, Bana Singh joined the Indian Army in 1969 and became a distinguished member of the 8 Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry. His legacy remains celebrated across the nation, with ongoing recognition of his contributions to Indian military history.
In another mark of respect, during Parakram Diwas on January 23 of the previous year, 21 unnamed islands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands were named in honor of Param Vir Chakra recipients, including a significant island named after Naib Subedar Bana Singh. This recognition serves to remind future generations of the valor and sacrifices made by these brave soldiers.
The Army Chief’s visit reflects the deep respect and camaraderie within the military community, acknowledging the profound impact of veterans like Bana Singh on the fabric of the nation’s defense history.
