𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐊𝐞𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐍𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐫𝐮𝐦 was born on March 7, 1975, in Shillong, Meghalaya. Captain Keishing Clifford Nongrum was a brave son of our soil who sacrificed his life during the Kargil War of 1999. On the night of June 30, 1999, Lt Nongrum’s unit was given the task of capturing Point 4812 in the Batalik sector. He was supposed to climb the mountain and attack the enemy at the top of the vertical cliff at Kargil. When he reached the top, his column faced a fierce attack that continued for nearly two hours. Without thinking about his safety, Nongrum charged at the enemy.
His grenades killed at least six enemy soldiers holed up in the bunkers, but while throwing them, Lt Nongrum was hit by several bullets. Despite being severely injured, Lt Nongrum continued to fight hand-to-hand with the Pakistani soldiers as he tried to snatch the machine gun in the remaining bunker.
In a supreme sacrifice, he chose to fight till his last breath and refused to be rescued. He kept fighting valiantly till he finally succumbed to his injuries on the battlefield.
For his valor, indomitable spirit, and heroic sacrifice, the Government of India awarded Nongrum the 'Maha Vir Chakra', India's second-highest gallantry honor. He is the only person from Meghalaya to have received this coveted award.
Today on his 49th birth anniversary we remember and honour the brave soul of Captain Keishing Clifford Nongrum. His unwavering courage and selflessness in the face of adversity serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by our armed forces to protect our nation’s sovereignty.
