Colonel Sonam Wangchuk (Retd), a celebrated Kargil War Hero and Mahavir Chakra awardee, passed away on Friday due to a heart attack at his residence in Ladakh at the age of 61. Born and raised in Leh, Col Wangchuk completed his schooling at Modern School, Barakhamba Road and graduated from Sri Venkateswara College. He joined the 4^th Battalion of the Assam Regiment. With over three decades of service to the nation, Col Wangchuk participated in counter-insurgency operations in the Northeast and the Indian Peace Keeping Force in Sri Lanka before moving to the elite Ladakh Scouts.

The Kargil War

During the night of May 30–31, 1999, Col Wangchuk played a very important role in the operation. He led the mission to secure Chorbat La, which is at an altitude of 5,500 metres. Bravely facing enemy fire, Col Wangchuk launched a counter-ambush and successfully secured the ridge. This operation is considered the first successful offensive action by Indian forces in the Kargil War. For the remarkable bravery in the difficult terrain, he was awarded the Mahavir Chakra. His name is forever cemented among the war heroes.

Inspiration for young army men

As news of his demise spread, tributes immediately poured in, with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paying his respects. Singh described Col Wangchuk as a proud son of Ladakh who exemplified resilience, courage, and dedication to the nation. He also noted that Wangchuk’s exemplary action during Operation Vijay serves as an inspiration for many guarding the nation in the most difficult high-altitude conditions.

Honouring his legacy, the Army’s XIV Corps remembered his “exemplary courage and inspiring leadership” in the Batalik sector. His lasting contribution during the war was remembered and young army men were given his example of how to survive and thrive in the world’s toughest terrains.

Col Wangchuk will forever remain a symbol of high-altitude warfare excellence and leadership within the Indian Army.

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