The man with extraordinary bravery and heroism , The man who stood between terrorists and safety in the icy heights of Kupwara— Havaldar Hangpan Dada, a soldier from Indian Army whose bravery continues to inspire a nation
Early Life and Background
Hangpan Dada was from the “Orchid State” of India — Arunachal Pradesh. He was born in Borduria, in the Tirap district of the state. His bravery was evident from a young age — as a child, he once saved a friend from drowning in a river. Determined to join the Indian Army. From a young age, Hangpan Dada showed discipline, physical fitness, and a strong desire to serve the nation. According to his family, he maintained a daily routine of running and workouts — preparing himself to join the armed forces. Havaldar Hangpan Dada was the youngest of three brothers. He married Chase Lowang Dada in 2005, and the couple had two children.
Military Career
He formally joined the Indian Army in 1997, at the age of 21, getting selected into the 4th Battalion of the Assam Regiment one of the infantry regiments of the Indian Army that recruits heavily from the northeastern states, especially Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and other hill regions. His fitness, mental toughness, and dedication helped him excel in training.
Over the years, he rose through the ranks and was later posted with the Rashtriya Rifles (RR) consider as one of deadly regiment of of Indian army specialized counter-insurgency force operating in Jammu and Kashmir, where he ultimately laid down his life during a 2016 anti-terror operation.Over the years, he rose through the ranks and was later posted with the Rashtriya Rifles (RR) consider as one of deadly regiment of Indian Army. A specialized counter-insurgency force operating in Jammu and Kashmir where Hangapan Dada bravely shot down three terrorist and ultimately laid down his life in 2016 anti-terror operation.
The Final Operation – Kupwara, May 2016
In May 2016 , the dense forests and rigged mountains of Kupwara district, J&K , became the setting for one of the most valiant act of bravery and valor in Indian Army history . As the information came that terrorist with heavy arms and ammunation are infiltrated the Line Of Control (LOC) and were hiding in the range of Shamsabari .
This was happinng in the region where the terrain was treacherous thick with pine trees, narrow ridgelines, and steep slopes. The weather was harsh and unpredictable, with cold winds and poor visibility adding to the danger. Then also without looking forward our soldiers from RR went to take them down .
Havaldar Hangpan Dada, serving with the 35th Rashtriya Rifles, was part of the quick reaction team deployed to track and neutralize them. As the search intensified Dada move ahead to block the route from where they will try to escape . In a fierce close-quarters encounter, he engaged with four terrorists alone and eliminate three of them with incredible speed, accuracy, and courage. Despite being severely wounded in the gunfight, he continued the operation, pushing through pain to protect his fellow soldiers and country.
His presence of mind, even while injured, ensured the success of the mission. Tragically, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after the encounter, having given his life for the nation.
Ashoka Chakra Award – Honoring Supreme Sacrifice
On August 15, 2016, during the Independence Day celebration at Red fort ( lal killa ) Delhi , the nation paused to remember its bravest. Havaldar Hangpan Dada was posthumously awarded the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, for his extraordinary courage and ultimate sacrifice during a counter-terrorism operation in Kupwara, Jammu & Kashmir.
At that time the President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee, presented the award to his wife, Chasen Lowang Dada, in a solemn and emotional ceremony. The nation stood in tribute to a hero whose bravery had become legend.
Hangapan Dada was the Bravest soldiers who fought for nation and shows his bravery , he will remembers forever. His actions not only ensured the safety of his comrades but also prevented a major infiltration attempt — a testament to his fearless spirit and commitment to duty.
Citation Highlights
The Ashoka Chakra citation stated that Havaldar Dada:
“Exhibited exceptional bravery and presence of mind by eliminating three heavily armed terrorists at close quarters, while putting himself in grave danger. Despite being grievously injured, he continued to engage the enemy, ultimately laying down his life for the nation.”
While the official citation was formal, many officers and media outlets praised him as:
“A one-man army who showed what it means to put the nation before self.”
“A true embodiment of courage — fearless, selfless, and relentless.”
Legacy and Public Recognition of Havaldar Hangpan Dada
As the Bravery and Valorous success of Hangapan Dada spread across the country , The name Hangpan Dada has become a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and inspiration especially in his home state of Arunachal Pradesh and across the entire Northeast region of India. His story is not only remembered but actively celebrated as an example of true patriotism and heroism.
Its impact also sees on the Arunachal Pradesh and Northen India
Havaldar Dada’s brave actions sparked a wave of pride across Arunachal Pradesh, where he is hailed as a local hero and a son of the soil. His sacrifice brought the northeastern states into the national spotlight, reinforcing the immense contribution of Northeast India to the Indian Armed Forces.
Now it’s become a Motivation and it will give more strength to do somthing like him , young people from the region now look up to him as a role model a humble soldier from a small village who became a national icon of valor.
Memorials and Honors
To honor his memory, several initiatives and landmarks have been named after him:
“Hangpan Dada Road”: A key road in Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh, has been named after him.
Schools and Programs: Educational institutions have held memorial events and competitions in his name to inspire students.
“Hangpan Dada Memorial Trophy”: An annual football and volleyball tournament in Arunachal Pradesh encourages youth participation in sports, fostering discipline and patriotism.
Conclusion
Havaldar Hangpan Dada was more than a soldier — he was a symbol of selfless service, love for the motherland, and the indomitable spirit of India’s armed forces. He is one of the great war heroes whose exceptational Bravery and loved towards motherland is unforgettable .
Let us remember him not just as a hero, but as a reminder of the price of peace and the heart of patriotism. Jay Hind
