Army veteran Colonel Sonam Wangchuk (Retd), a Maha Vir Chakra awardee, known for his bravery during Operation Vijay in Kargil in 1999, passed away on Friday (April 10, 2026).
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in a post on X, called Colonel Wangchuk “a proud son of Ladakh”, whose bravery during Operation Vijay inspired generations of Army personnel. The minister said the Kargil War hero exemplified resilience and patriotism, embodying the spirit of Ladakh and standing as a symbol of India’s unity in diversity.
Rajnath Singh described Col Wangchuk as a highly decorated officer renowned for his gallantry, excellence in leadership, and unwavering commitment to duty. “His life remains a testament to courage, sacrifice, and national integration, and his legacy will continue to inspire coming generations,” he added.
The Indian Army also extended its condolences, recalling him as a brave soldier, a committed leader, and a proud son of Ladakh. In a tribute posted on X, the army stated that his life embodied courage, service, and unity. It added that his legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
Who Was Colonel Sonam Wangchuk?
Colonel Sonam Wangchuk (Retd) was celebrated for his exemplary courage in the 1999 Kargil war.
Born on January 27, 1964, in Leh Ladakh, he studied at Modern School, New Delhi, and later at Sri Venkateshwara College, University of Delhi.
He was commissioned in the Indian Army on September 4, 1987, in the Assam Regiment and was subsequently deputed to the Ladakh Scouts, also known as the “Snow Warriors.”
Role in the Kargil War
Then Major Sonam Wangchuk was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, India’s second-highest wartime gallantry honour.
During the Kargil war’s Operation Vijay, he showed remarkable courage in the Batalik sub-sector, leading operations to successfully secure the vital Chorbat La. He established strategic observation posts and repelled enemy attacks at extremely high-altitude conditions.
His citation reads, “Moving at night, he reached the base of the Observation Post just before first light. As the Post was under enemy’s artillery fire and the attack was imminent, he deployed his platoon (of 2 JCO’s and twenty-five jawans) to deter the enemy. After facing enemy’s fire for nearly six hours, finally the Observation Post was reinforced by Major Sonam, with 1 JCO and 11 Jawans. Major Sonam assaulted a feature next to the Observation Post held by enemy with about a platoon and captured it by killing six enemy soldiers.”
He was honoured with the prestigious award for his exceptional courage and exemplary leadership. Two posts in the sector-“Sonam I” and “Sonam II” were subsequently named in his honour.