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Neiphiu Rio paying homage at the resting place of the late Captain Neikezakhuo Kengruse, MVC, at Nerhema village in Kohima. (EM Images)[/caption]
Kohima, July 28 (EMN): Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio proclaimed that late Captain Neikezakhuo Kengruse, an icon particularly for youths due to the valour and sacrifice the soldier showed in defence of the nation.
Speaking during the 19th Vijay Diwas, the chief minister said that the name of Kengruse was already a household name in the state for his bravery and commitment when protecting the nation. Rio paid tributes to the 527 soldiers of the Indian army who sacrificed their lives during the Kargil War.
The chief minister said that the late Kengruse had left a mark on every person’s mind to be patriotic and to contribute to the interest of the nation. He hoped that the youngsters would emulate his life and dedicate their life to the service of the nation.
Rio acknowledged the Assam rifles for organizing a football tournament in the name of the war hero and also for providing assistance to the state government in maintaining law and order, besides being there to help during emergencies.
He asked the villagers of Nerhema and its neighbours to cooperate with the Assam Rifles and other dignitaries who come forward to contribute. That way, he said, youngsters would be motivated to join the armed forces and his sacrifice would not go in vain.
In a short address, Neiselie Kengruse, father of the late Kengruse, said that out of the 527 lives that were lost during the Kargil War, some lost their husbands, some their sons and fathers. His son, the senior Kengruse said, was among them.
He expressed gratitude to all who shared in their families’ grief especially the Assam rifles and Neiphiu Rio, who he said was there for his family right from the time he accompanied his son's mortal remains from Delhi 19 years ago, and to this day.
Further, Major General P C Nair, IGAR (N) said in his speech that Kargil Vijay Diwas was celebrated on July 26 every year in honour of the Kargil War heroes and that it was named after the success of Operation Vijay. He said that 527 soldiers of the Indian Army sacrificed their lives during the skirmish. The late captain was one among the brave hearts who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation then.
The officer said that some personnel of the 15th Rajputana Rifles will be visiting the state next month. They will include some comrades of Kengruse and who took part with him during the Kargil War.
Ex-gratia enhanced
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has announced that the Nagaland government has decided to enhance the ex-gratia funds from the current INR one lakh to INR six lakh to all military personnel including Nagaland police cadres. He said that the state’s government would give full cooperation to the personnel who have served the nation and to the ones currently in service.