Tengnoupal: Assam Rifles organised a solemn Wreath Laying Ceremony at Battalion Headquarters in Tengnoupal, Tengnoupal District on 30 July 2026 to pay homage to four bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice during Operation Hifazat in Manipur on 30 July 2000. The commemorative event honoured Second-in-Command (2IC) P N T Nair, Havildar Hiralal Prasad, Havildar L K Sinha and Rifleman TM Mathew, whose selfless devotion and valorous actions epitomised the highest traditions of the Force.
During the operational engagement in 2000, 2IC P N T Nair was leading the Quick Reaction Team when they encountered heavy insurgent fire along the Sangkhomei Road on NH-102 in Tengnoupal District. Demonstrating exceptional tactical resolve and leadership, he advanced to engage the adversaries, resulting in his ultimate sacrifice along with three fellow personnel in the line of duty. For his indomitable courage and gallant leadership in the face of adversity, 2IC P N T Nair was posthumously awarded the Shaurya Chakra on 15 August 2001.
A senior official of Assam Rifles laid a wreath and paid rich tributes to the fallen heroes, noting that their extraordinary sacrifice remains a guiding force and enduring motivation for all personnel. The solemn ceremony reaffirmed the Force’s deep respect for its martyrs and reinforced its resolve to uphold a proud legacy of valour, discipline and service to the nation.
