Major David Manlun, a posthumous recipient of the Kirti Chakra, is celebrated as a symbol of courage, leadership, and dedication to service within the Indian Army. An officer in the Naga Regiment, he made the ultimate sacrifice during a significant counter-insurgency operation in Nagaland’s Mon district following a fierce encounter with militants on the night of June 6-7, 2017. At the young age of 31, Major Manlun exemplified extraordinary bravery, leading his men from the front despite facing heavy enemy fire. His actions not only preserved the lives of his troops but also epitomized the highest traditions of the Indian Army, ultimately earning him India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award.
Born on July 27, 1985, in Imphal, Manipur, Major Manlun hailed from the Churachandpur district, emerging from a lineage steeped in military tradition, which instilled patriotism and discipline in him from a young age. His father, a retired Subedar of the Assam Regiment, and his brother, who served in the 8th Battalion of the same regiment, contributed to a family legacy of service. Even his sister is married to Colonel Ashutosh Kumar of the Assam Regiment.
During his formative years, David exhibited qualities that would later define his military career, such as determination, physical resilience, and a profound sense of duty. His educational journey took him through Army Public School, Shillong, and culminated with a degree from St. Anthony’s College, Shillong, in 2006. David was not only academically inclined but also showcased athletic prowess, actively participating in sports.
A remarkable aspect of Major Manlun’s profile was his linguistic proficiency, conversing fluently in several languages including English, Hindi, Zou, Mizo, Kuki, and Paite. This skill proved invaluable during his service in the Northeast, where understanding local dialects was critical for effective counter-insurgency operations.
His aspiration of serving in the Indian Army took shape when he cleared the UPSC Combined Defence Services Examination and joined the Officers Training Academy in Chennai in 2009. Commissioned as a Lieutenant in March 2010 into the prestigious 1st Battalion of the Naga Regiment, Major Manlun dedicated his early career to rigorous operational postings in regions like Naugam, Jammu and Kashmir, and Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh, before being stationed in Nagaland.
In 2014, he was assigned to the 164 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) of the Naga Regiment in Nagaland, a position that allowed him to leverage his understanding of local customs and languages to foster trust with the civilian population. He took initiatives such as organizing sports events to engage youth and deter them from militant influences, balancing firmness against insurgents with compassion for the local community.
Major Manlun’s commendable service earned him the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Card in August 2016, along with a selection for a role in the elite National Security Guard. Unfortunately, his NSG probation was set to begin on June 23, 2017, but fate intervened.
During the counter-insurgency operation on June 6, 2017, Major Manlun led a unit to infiltrate the Lappa area near Tizit, based on critical intelligence. The operation targeted a group of militants affiliated with ULFA(I) and NSCN(K), operating in a remote and challenging terrain near the Myanmar border. At approximately 10 PM, the team engaged with the militants, triggering a rapid and fierce firefight.
In the chaos, Major Manlun and several soldiers sustained injuries from initial militant fire and grenade explosions. Demonstrating remarkable valor, he refused to withdraw. Instead, he charged forward into the fray, engaging the militants directly and pinning them down to prevent further casualties among his men. His courageous actions led to the elimination of three militants involved in prior violent incidents.
Though he ultimately succumbed to his injuries shortly after, Major Manlun’s inspiring leadership during those critical moments saved lives and ensured the operational success of his team. For his exceptional bravery and commitment, he was awarded the Kirti Chakra. The official citation highlighted his selfless determination, stating that he moved forward despite being injured, displaying “conspicuous personal bravery and leadership of the highest order.”
The Kirti Chakra was awarded posthumously to his parents by the President of India at the Rashtrapati Bhavan during the Defence Investiture Ceremony on March 27, 2018.
The legacy of Major David Manlun continues to be honored by the Indian Army and community members. On May 23, 2018, an auditorium was inaugurated in his memory at Army Public School, Shillong. Annually, tributes are paid to commemorate his life and service.
Reflecting on his brother’s ethos, Siampu Manlun recalled David’s words on the importance of mental strength over physical capability, emphasizing resilience in adversity.
Major David Manlun’s life is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers in challenging environments, embodying bravery, understanding of local dynamics, and unwavering dedication to military duty. His sacrifice remains an esteemed chapter in the history of the Naga Regiment and the Indian Army, serving as a source of inspiration for future generations of defense aspirants and soldiers. Major David Manlun’s narrative exemplifies courage, commitment, and the ultimate sacrifice for the nation.
