Tengnoupal : Assam Rifles organised a solemn Wreath Laying Ceremony at its Headquarters in Tengnoupal, Tengnoupal District, Manipur, on 22 August 2026 to pay rich tributes to Rifleman Mahendra Singh, Sena Medal (Posthumous), who made the supreme sacrifice during Operation Hifazat on 22 August 1990. Conducted with full military solemnity and reverence, the event provided an opportunity for all ranks to reflect upon the fallen hero’s exceptional bravery, devotion to duty, and indomitable spirit engaged against insurgents.
The operational chain of events commenced on 20 August 1990 under Battalion Commanding Officer Colonel J S Ghura in the Maram area of Senapati District. The troops advanced through the Willong area on 21 August 1990, establishing a night halt at Yangkhullen, Senapati District. On 22 August 1990, the column proceeded towards an NSCN(IM) hideout in the dense jungles and hilly terrain of Yangkhonou, Senapati District. Upon approaching the hostile position, concealed insurgents opened fire. Rifleman Mahendra Singh, serving as the No 1 Scout of his section, displayed conspicuous gallantry by charging forward under intense fire and employing a 36 Hand Grenade against the position. Despite sustaining fatal injuries, he valiantly engaged the insurgents until his last breath.
In recognition of his unmatched valor, the Government of India posthumously awarded him the Sena Medal during the Army Day celebrations at Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, on 15 January 1993. A senior official of Assam Rifles laid a wreath during the ceremony, reaffirming that the sacrifice of bravehearts remains an enduring source of inspiration for all ranks to serve the nation with selfless dedication.
