(** Something we believe in Naga culture is that the spirits of our ancestor stay with us forever to watch over us in our day-to-day activities. - Martyr officer's sister in 2024)
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"Heartfelt greetings to the countrymen on Kargil Vijay Diwas.
This occasion reminds us of the unparalleled courage and valor of those brave sons of Mother India who dedicated their lives to protect the nation's pride. Their passion to sacrifice everything for the motherland will continue to inspire every generation.
Jai Hind!" - Prime Minister Modi said in a message.
'Jai Hind' echoes as India pays tribute to Kargil heroes on 26th Vijay Diwas
Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed every year on July 26 to commemorate India's victory over Pakistan in 1999.
President Draupadi Murmu called the day a symbol of "extraordinary valour, courage and steadfast determination" of the nation's soldiers. "Their dedication and supreme sacrifice for the nation will forever inspire citizens," she said.
(Memorial maintained near Kohima in honour of Kargil Martyr Lieutenant
Neikezhakuo - alias Neibu - Kengurusie )
Lieutenant (Capt) Neikezhakuo (alias Neibu) Kengurusie, was an Angami Naga from Nerhema village. He attained martyrdom on June 28, 1999 at Black Rock, Kargil at the tender age of 24.
The 2 Rajputana Rifles officer was later posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, India's second highest gallantry award. Born on July 15, 1974, Kenguruse breathed his last on June 28, 1999.
The Rajputana Rifles is the oldest rifle regiment of the Indian Army.
In October 2024, during an interaction at their Kohima residence; Martyred soldier's father told me: - "Our son always thought as a soldier and a patriot.... and he was confident that the enemy (Pakistan) would be given a befitting response for their misadventures at the Kargil front."
His sister Ms Neiketouii said it is a matter of immense pride for the family that the Govt of India and Defence authorities and Assam Rifles organise an annual football tournament in his name at Kohima.
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| Few days before passing out parade |
Kenguruse grew up in a tight-knit community and was taught the value of diligence, integrity, and loyalty from a young age. His sense of loyalty to his country was influenced by his upbringing.
He attended Saint Xaviers School in Jalukie for his early education before proceeding to Kohima Science College to pursue further education.
Commissioned in the Army Services Corps in 1998, Capt Kenguruse was instrumental in the raid that took the heavily entrenched Khalubar Ridge in Dras on June 28, 1999.
His sister also recalled with her moist eyes:
"Neibu's own will to don the uniform and experience the pride of doing that won the day. His dreams were always bigger than just a stable job...".
Lt Gen R. N Kapur (Retd) pays rich homage to the Naga Kargil War
Hero.
"He (Neibu) did proud not only to his Regiment but also to Nagaland and India. He will live on forever in the memory of every Indian. My salute to him."
"Anti Pakistan slogans were reported (in Naga hills) which affirmed the faith in Indian Nationalism. No compensation is adequate for Martyrdom but to the best of my memory the government had allotted a petrol pump and substantial monetary grant".
"I remember his martyrdom and am aware of the huge gathering of Nagas and non-Nagas to pay their last respects. A team of Officers visited his parents offering our heartfelt condolences and all possible help." - Let Gen Kapur, who served in Nagaland in the 1990s, told this journalist.
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| Blogger with Martyr officer's proud parents |
Ends
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