New Delhi: President Ram Nath Kovind today conferred gallantry awards on several army personnel including Odisha's Pradip Kumar Panda (Posthumous). Pradip's wife, Minati Panda, received the Kirti Chakra from the President today.
Pradip, a constable in 130 Battalion of CRPF was honoured with the gallantry award for his supreme sacrifice for the country and his exceptional bravery, dedication and commitment for his duty while confronting the terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir.
“I feel proud for my husband. For his sacrifice and commitment towards the safety of country, President honoured him with Kirti Chakra. My two sons will also follow the same path and join the Indian Army to serve the country,” Minati said.
Pradip, who hails from Liploi village in Sundargarh district, was among the five soldiers killed in a 36-hour gunfight with three heavily armed terrorists of Jaish-e-Mohammed at a CRPF training camp in Lethopora in South-Kashmir on December 30, 2017. He battled with the terrorists despite being injured and continued fire till he fell down and attained martyrdom. The 3 terrorists were shot dead in the operation.