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Major Padmapani Acharya, MVC

Born in an Air Force officer family to (ret)Wg. Cdr. Jagannath Acharya who served in 1965 and 1971 war, Maj Padmapani was born on 21 June 1968, in Hyderabad. The passion to serve for the country was always in his blood and soon Maj. Acharya joined the Officers Training Academy, Madras and got commissioned as Second Lieutenant into the 2nd Battalion of Rajputana Rifles in 1993.

Service No.IC55072K
Birth PlaceHyderabad
RankMajor
Unit2 Raj Rif
RegimentThe Rajputana Rifles
AwardMaha Vir Chakra
Date Of MartyrdomJune 26, 1999

During the Kargil war, the Tololing point which was a crucial position over Srinagar-Leh Highway, and to capture that point was important for the Battalion. For this 2nd Rajputana Rifle was given the task to capture the Tololing point and Maj. Acharya was leading one of the companies to take on one of the enemy bunkers at that point. During the assault, Maj Acharya’s team came under heavy and accurate fire of enemy Artillery and most of his team mates lost their life. Instead of returning to post, he took a reserve platoon with him under heavy fire of bullets and guns, crawling down between the bunkers. Not minding his safety, he lobbed one grenade into the bunkers. During this manure he was badly injured and was unable to move from his position. Even in this situation he led his team and ordered fire at the enemy and with a long night hand to hand battle, the battalion was successful in capturing this point back and turning the course of Kargil War. Later due to his injuries he succumbed to death. Due to his outstanding bravery and selfless action, leadership and supreme sacrifice Maj. Padmapani Acharya was awarded Maha Vir Chakra on 15 August 1999.

The Soldier above all others prays for peace, for it is the soldier who must suffer and bear the deepest wound and scars of War.-Douglas MacArther