Himachal’s braveheart Lance Naik Manish Thakur martyred in Sikkim landslide

A pall of gloom descended on Baraban village in Sirmaur district as the news of Lance Naik Manish Thakur’s martyrdom reached his hometown. The young soldier, just 27 years old, lost his life in a tragic landslide near the Brigade Headquarters at Chatten in North Sikkim on Sunday evening while on duty.

Son of Joginder Singh and Kiran Bala, Manish had joined the Army's Dogra Regiment in September 2016. Known for his discipline and quiet dedication, he served the nation for over eight years. He is survived by his wife, Tanu Devi, and his grieving family in Baraban (Kolar) village of Nahan tehsil in Sirmaur district.

Deputy Director of the Sainik Welfare Board, Sirmaur, Major (Retd) Deepak Dhawan confirmed the unfortunate news and shared details of the arrangements being made. “It is hoped that the mortal remains of the brave soldier will arrive in Chandigarh by aircraft this evening. From there, the body will be brought to Sirmaur by road with full military honours,” he said.

He added, “Lance Naik Manish Thakur has laid down his life in the line of duty and we salute his supreme sacrifice. The district administration, along with the Army and Sainik Welfare Board, stands firmly with the bereaved family.”

The final rites will be performed in his native village with full military honours under the Assured Decent Last Rites (ADLR) protocol.

Subedar Dinesh Kumar will be escorting the mortal remains.