A Colonel’s Promise: 25 Years of Tribute to a Fallen Kargil Hero

Colonel Sachin Nimbalkar, a Vir Chakra recipient, visits the family of his fallen comrade, Grenadier Udayman Singh, every year for the past 25 years to honor a promise he made during the Kargil War. Despite different assignments, Nimbalkar ensures he connects with Singh’s family, showcasing unwavering commitment and camaraderie.

For 25 consecutive years, Colonel Sachin Nimbalkar has kept a solemn promise. Every year, he visits the home of his Kargil War buddy, Grenadier Udayman Singh, who sacrificed his life during the battle to recapture Tiger Hill.

Colonel Nimbalkar, a Vir Chakra awardee, last visited Singh's parents on July 4, the same date as the pivotal night in 1999 when the Indian soldiers launched their attack on Tiger Hill. Singh died from a fatal gunshot during the battle on July 5, leading Nimbalkar, then a young Captain, to vow annual visits to Singh’s family.

Over the years, despite various assignments and postings, Nimbalkar has maintained this ritual, including supporting Singh’s family in significant events like the weddings of Singh’s sisters. His Vir Chakra citation praises his leadership and bravery, recalling the operation that killed 12 enemy soldiers and recovered a large cache of arms.