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Siachen hero Col. ‘Bull’ Kumar passes away
Why is it in news?
- Colonel Narinder ‘Bull’ Kumar (Retd.), died at the Army’s Research and Referral (R&R) Hospital. He was 87 and had age-related ailments.
Details:
- Colonel Narinder Kumar was instrumental in the Army launching Operation Meghdoot and securing the dominating heights of Siachen Glacier in 1984.
- They were among the first to report on Pakistani mischief in Siachen sending patrol and mountaineering expeditions to the Glacier area.
- India was thus able to pre-empt Pakistani attempt to occupy Saltoro Range.
- On April 13, 1984, India launched Operation Meghdoot to capture the 76.4-km glacier on the Saltoro ridge.
- A platoon of the 4 Kumaon led by then Captain Sanjay Kulkarni planted the Indian flag at Bilafond La.
Titles:
- Kumar was awarded Padma Shri in 1965.
- He was decorated with Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Kirti Chakra and Ati Vishisht Seva Medal.
- He is a recipient of the Mac Gregor Medal awarded to armed forces personnel for military reconnaissance.
- The battalion headquarters on the glacier close to an altitude of 16,000 feet is named “Kumar post” in his honour.