A wave of grief swept across Himachal Pradesh’s Kinnaur district as hundreds gathered in Thaimgarang village to bid a final farewell to Naik Pushpendra Negi, a 29-year-old soldier of the 19 Dogra Regiment who lost his life while on duty in Assam.
On Monday, while carrying out his duties during a severe storm in Assam, a large tree branch fell on Pushpendra, inflicting fatal injuries. He succumbed shortly after the incident, leaving behind his young family and a mourning community.
The soldier’s mortal remains reached his native village on Thursday morning after a long and difficult journey from Assam, delayed due to adverse weather conditions. His body was first airlifted to Delhi, then flown to Chandigarh, and finally transported by road to Kinnaur.
A solemn procession followed as villagers, friends, and relatives paid their last respects. Pushpendra’s wife, Kirti, was inconsolable as she embraced the coffin and offered a final salute. Their six-year-old son, Etik, stood beside her, unaware of the full weight of the loss. His parents, Mahendra Negi and Sarla Devi, remained seated in silent mourning, surrounded by fellow villagers who had come from far and wide to support the grieving family.
Chants of “Shaheed Pushpendra Negi Amar Rahe” echoed through the village as his final rites were conducted with full state and military honours.
Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu and Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri conveyed heartfelt condolences. “Himachal is proud of its brave son. His sacrifice will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude,” the Chief Minister stated.
Naik Pushpendra Negi’s untimely death has plunged Kinnaur into mourning, as the region once again pays tribute to the courage and dedication of its soldiers who serve the nation under all conditions.
