Two Indian Army personnel lost their lives after a military vehicle plunged into a ditch in Arunachal Pradesh’s Upper Subansiri district near the India–China border. The tragic accident occurred on March 7 while the soldiers were on operational movement in the remote border region.
Defence officials confirmed the incident on Tuesday and said the personnel were travelling as part of their assigned duties under Operation Snow Leopard, a key military deployment along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
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Accident Near Reddi Village
The accident took place near Reddi village in Upper Subansiri district. According to officials, the Army team was travelling from Gelemo to Taksing, a remote border area close to the India–China frontier.
During the journey through the mountainous terrain, the vehicle reportedly lost control and plunged into a ditch. The region is known for its narrow and difficult roads, which often pose challenges for vehicles, especially during operational movements.
Rescue teams rushed to the spot after the accident. However, two soldiers succumbed to their injuries.
Soldiers Identified
The Army identified the deceased soldiers as Naib Subedar Kulwant Singh and Naik Pradeep Kumar Sharma.
Naib Subedar Kulwant Singh served in the 908 Field Regiment under the 56 Artillery Brigade. He was a senior non-commissioned officer with years of service in the Indian Army.
Naik Pradeep Kumar Sharma belonged to the 18 Sikh Regiment and hailed from Rae Bareli district in Uttar Pradesh. Fellow soldiers remembered him as a dedicated and disciplined member of the unit.
The Indian Army expressed condolences to the families of the deceased personnel and acknowledged their service and sacrifice.
Driver Escapes With Minor Injuries
The driver of the vehicle, Amarjeet Gujjar, also from the 908 Field Regiment, survived the crash with minor injuries. Medical teams immediately shifted him to the Field Hospital Borarupak for treatment.
Officials said he is currently recovering and remains out of danger.
Operation Snow Leopard and Border Deployment
The soldiers were part of operational duties under Operation Snow Leopard, which focuses on maintaining vigilance and operational readiness along India’s northern borders.
The operation plays an important role in strengthening troop presence and ensuring preparedness in sensitive areas along the Line of Actual Control with China.
Upper Subansiri district is one of the strategically important areas in Arunachal Pradesh. The region features rugged mountains, remote villages, and challenging terrain that often complicates both civilian and military travel.
Difficult Terrain in Border Areas
Many roads in the region pass through steep slopes and narrow stretches. Army personnel frequently travel through these difficult routes to reach forward posts and maintain supply lines.
Officials noted that such movements are essential for maintaining security and operational readiness along the border.
Authorities are reviewing the circumstances surrounding the accident. The Army is also providing necessary support to the families of the fallen soldiers.
The tragic loss highlights the risks faced by security personnel while carrying out routine operational duties in remote and high-altitude border areas.
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