Latest news with #Havildar
Hindustan Times
22-05-2025
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Kangra Agniveer dies in Kargil landslide
A 25-year-old Agniveer from Himachal's Kangra district died in a landslide while he was on duty in the Drass sector of Kargil, officials said on Wednesday. According to officials, Naveen Kumar, a resident of Halun village in Thural panchayat of Sulah assembly segment, was serving with the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles and lost his life in a landslide on May 20. The mortal remains of the deceased soldier are expected to reach his native village on Thursday, where his last rites will be conducted with full military honours, they said. Vandana Kumari, head of Thural panchayat, confirmed the incident and expressed her condolences. 'We were informed by a soldier from the area. The whole village stands with the grieving family,' she said. Naveen had joined the army two years ago through an open rally recruitment under the Agnipath father, Rajmal, also served the nation as a Havildar in the 13 JAK Rifles and passed away four years ago due to cancer. According to family, Naveen had spoken to his mother over the phone on the morning of May 19. He had last visited home in July 2024. Himachal chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed grief over the incident and prayed for strength to the bereaved family. Deputy chief minister Mukesh Agnihotri also expressed grief over Kumar's demise. Agnihotri conveyed his condolences and prayed for peace to the departed soul. With PTI inputs
Time of India
17-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
TMC holds statewide rallies to honour armed forces
1 2 Kolkata: Trinamool on Saturday brought out rallies across the state, from 3 to 5pm, to honour the bravery of the Indian armed forces in Operation Sindoor . CM Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday said that she had directed netas of the party to express gratitude to the armed forces on May 17 and May 18, and extend support towards the families of martyrs . On Saturday, people from all walks of life participated in the rallies holding posters hailing the forces and depicting images of Havildar Jhantu Ali Sheikh, who died in counter-operations on April 24, two days after the Pahalgam terrorist attack. At a rally in Kolkata, mayor and Bengal minister Firhad Hakim said: "Our first identity is that we are Indians. The armed forces gave a befitting reply to Pakistan after the terrorist attack. We salute our soldiers and honour officers like Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh. From Jhantu Ali Sheikh to all who sacrificed their lives... their blood will not be wasted. In the face of any attack, India will stand as one." Leading another rally, state minister Shashi Panja said, "We are patriotic Indians. We offer condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. They were our loved ones too. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 새로 나온 '실비보험' 최적가 비교가입! "月 보험료 낮추고, 보장은 든든하게"... 굿리치 보험대리점 (등록번호:제2006038313호) 가입하기 Undo We respect the armed forces." "We pay tribute to the bravehearts of Indian Army, Navy & Air Force, the silent sentinels of our sovereignty. We mourn the martyrs and stand with their families in shared grief," Trinamool wrote on X. In Murshidabad, the felicitation of security personnel by Shamsherganj MLA Amirul Islam in Dhuliyan drew a large crowd. In Nowda, TMC netas honoured retired armed forces personnel and families of martyrs by setting up plaques.
Economic Times
13-05-2025
- General
- Economic Times
Mumbai couple cancels dream vacation, donates over ₹1 lakh to martyred LoC soldier Murali Naik's family in stirring act of patriotism
In an age where travel dreams dominate social media feeds, a Mumbai-based couple quietly chose a different kind of journey — one of empathy and nationhood. The couple, who have opted to remain anonymous, had been saving for their dream foreign vacation for months. With over ₹1.09 lakh earmarked for the trip, plans were nearly final. But the tragic news of Murali Naik's martyrdom on the Line of Control shook them deeply. And just like that, a suitcase meant for souvenirs was replaced with a donation envelope — sent straight to the bereaved family of the 20-something jawan who gave his life defending India. Their decision wasn't born out of obligation or fame, but out of a deeply felt gratitude. 'At a time like this, it didn't feel right to indulge in travel pleasures while families like Murali's mourn silently,' they reportedly said to the youth platform We Are Yuvaa . Their gesture — selfless, quiet, and deeply human — has now struck an emotional chord with thousands across the country. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Yuvaa (@weareyuvaa) On the night of May 8, 2025, amid intensified cross-border firing from Pakistan, young Havildar Murali Naik lost his life while manning the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir. His death was not just another statistic; it sent ripples of grief from the rugged terrain of the LoC to the dusty bylanes of Kallithanda village in Sri Sathya Sai District of Andhra Pradesh — the soil he once called home. Though born in Andhra, Murali spent his growing years in Mumbai's Kamraj Nagar, where his quiet strength and ambition to join the forces were well known. From a humble family of labourers who recently moved back to Andhra after losing their home to a redevelopment project, Murali was their only child — their sole pillar of support. 'My son died for the country,' said a visibly broken Sriram Naik, Murali's father. 'Now we are like orphans, my wife and I.' As Murali's mortal remains arrived in his native village on May 10, a sea of mourners gathered — neighbours, school friends, and strangers alike. Emotions ran high as thousands queued to pay their final respects, many carrying garlands, others simply their silence. A full military funeral, complete with a 21-gun salute and state honours, was held as his casket, draped in the tricolour, was lowered into the earth he once tilled as a boy. The Government of Andhra Pradesh announced a ₹50 lakh ex gratia for Murali's parents, a five-acre land allotment, a house site measuring 300 square yards, and a government job for the family — gestures aimed at honouring a life given too soon. Among those present at the final rites was Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and actor-turned-politician Pawan Kalyan, who offered a stirring tribute both in person and on social media. Describing Murali as 'a brave son of Bharat,' he recalled the soldier's unwavering choice to serve in the armed forces, despite having other career options. 'His journey from a tribal hamlet to the frontlines is marked by great love for the motherland,' Kalyan wrote, pledging ₹25 lakh of personal support to the grieving family. 'Murali's story is a reminder of the countless unnamed warriors who stand tall at our borders, ensuring we sleep in peace.' The Mumbai couple's donation, though financial in nature, stands as a profound symbol of emotional solidarity. In a world often too preoccupied with individual goals, their act has emerged as a poignant reminder of the invisible threads that bind this nation — sacrifice, empathy, and the eternal debt we owe to those in uniform. As India continues to reel from the loss of yet another young soldier, stories like these remind us that the spirit of service doesn't belong solely to the battlefield. Sometimes, it's found in the quiet corner of a cancelled holiday, where the only thing packed is compassion.
Time of India
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Mumbai couple cancels dream vacation, donates over ₹1 lakh to martyred LoC soldier Murali Naik's family in stirring act of patriotism
A Mumbai couple gave up their long-cherished dream of a foreign vacation to support the family of Havildar Murali Naik, who was martyred in LoC shelling. Donating over ₹1 lakh, their silent salute to a fallen hero has stirred hearts across the country, reminding us of the power of empathy and unity in grief. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads A Life Cut Short, A Nation Mourns Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads The Village That Rose in Tribute Pawan Kalyan Salutes Murali A Country United in Grief and Gratitude In an age where travel dreams dominate social media feeds, a Mumbai-based couple quietly chose a different kind of journey — one of empathy and nationhood. The couple, who have opted to remain anonymous, had been saving for their dream foreign vacation for months. With over ₹1.09 lakh earmarked for the trip, plans were nearly final. But the tragic news of Murali Naik's martyrdom on the Line of Control shook them deeply. And just like that, a suitcase meant for souvenirs was replaced with a donation envelope — sent straight to the bereaved family of the 20-something jawan who gave his life defending decision wasn't born out of obligation or fame, but out of a deeply felt gratitude. 'At a time like this, it didn't feel right to indulge in travel pleasures while families like Murali's mourn silently,' they reportedly said to the youth platform We Are Yuvaa. Their gesture — selfless, quiet, and deeply human — has now struck an emotional chord with thousands across the the night of May 8, 2025, amid intensified cross-border firing from Pakistan, young Havildar Murali Naik lost his life while manning the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir. His death was not just another statistic; it sent ripples of grief from the rugged terrain of the LoC to the dusty bylanes of Kallithanda village in Sri Sathya Sai District of Andhra Pradesh — the soil he once called born in Andhra, Murali spent his growing years in Mumbai's Kamraj Nagar, where his quiet strength and ambition to join the forces were well known. From a humble family of labourers who recently moved back to Andhra after losing their home to a redevelopment project, Murali was their only child — their sole pillar of support.'My son died for the country,' said a visibly broken Sriram Naik, Murali's father. 'Now we are like orphans, my wife and I.'As Murali's mortal remains arrived in his native village on May 10, a sea of mourners gathered — neighbours, school friends, and strangers alike. Emotions ran high as thousands queued to pay their final respects, many carrying garlands, others simply their silence. A full military funeral , complete with a 21-gun salute and state honours, was held as his casket, draped in the tricolour, was lowered into the earth he once tilled as a Government of Andhra Pradesh announced a ₹50 lakh ex gratia for Murali's parents, a five-acre land allotment, a house site measuring 300 square yards, and a government job for the family — gestures aimed at honouring a life given too those present at the final rites was Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and actor-turned-politician Pawan Kalyan, who offered a stirring tribute both in person and on social media. Describing Murali as 'a brave son of Bharat,' he recalled the soldier's unwavering choice to serve in the armed forces, despite having other career options.'His journey from a tribal hamlet to the frontlines is marked by great love for the motherland,' Kalyan wrote, pledging ₹25 lakh of personal support to the grieving family. 'Murali's story is a reminder of the countless unnamed warriors who stand tall at our borders, ensuring we sleep in peace.'The Mumbai couple's donation, though financial in nature, stands as a profound symbol of emotional solidarity. In a world often too preoccupied with individual goals, their act has emerged as a poignant reminder of the invisible threads that bind this nation — sacrifice, empathy, and the eternal debt we owe to those in India continues to reel from the loss of yet another young soldier, stories like these remind us that the spirit of service doesn't belong solely to the battlefield. Sometimes, it's found in the quiet corner of a cancelled holiday, where the only thing packed is compassion.
News18
07-05-2025
- Politics
- News18
1971 India-Pakistan War: Retired Captain Recalls How Indian Troops Captured A Fort 'Without Single Shot'
Retd Captain Bajrang Lal Doodi recalled that as their platoon neared Islamgarh Fort, raising slogans, the Pakistani forces fled without firing a shot In response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, India has launched Operation Sindoor, a targeted military operation aimed at eliminating terrorist threats. As part of this operation, Indian forces carried out air strikes on terror hideouts across Pakistan, neutralising terrorists in nine strategic locations within just 16 days of the Pahalgam attack. While Pakistan has faced defeat in four previous wars, questions remain about how long it can withstand pressure this time. According to 85-year-old retired captain Bajrang Lal Doodi, who fought in the 1965 and 1971 wars, Pakistan will not survive if another conflict breaks out. 'Whether through defence strategy, military might, or diplomacy, India has foiled Pakistan's plans time and again — and will continue to do so," Captain Doodi, who served in the Indian Army's Rajputana Rifles, said. Captain Doodi joined the Rajputana Rifles as a Havildar in 1958 at the age of 18. He recalled his experiences from the 1971 war, during which he was posted with the Motor Platoon in Nasirabad. On receiving orders from senior officers, his platoon moved first to Jodhpur and then to Jaisalmer. At the time, there was uncertainty over whether India would go to war. Deployed To Islamgarh After staying in Ramgarh for 10–12 days, followed by six days near the Ghantiyali temple, Doodi's unit moved to Kishangarh. On the evening of December 4, 1971, he received critical orders related to national security. His platoon then set off from Kishangarh towards Islamgarh in Pakistan. At the border, he was joined by his fellow Company Commander, Havildar Dayanand. Islamgarh lay just 20 kilometres from the Indian border. As they approached the town, Pakistani troops opened fire. Tragically, Havildar Dayanand was hit by nearly 25 bullets and died. Doodi recalled that their platoon, consisting of 830 soldiers and officers, advanced with determination. As they neared Islamgarh Fort, Indian troops raised slogans that sent panic through the Pakistani forces. The enemy fled, leaving behind weapons and supplies, without firing a single shot. On the morning of December 5, Indian forces took control of the fort without resistance. The platoon stayed there the entire day before receiving orders to return to Kishangarh that evening. A Delta Company, made up entirely of Muslim soldiers, was left behind to hold the fort. First Published: May 07, 2025, 12:29 IST
