Mahavir Chakra (MVC)

Brigadier K.P. Pande's mountain brigade was assigned the task of clearing a well fortified position in the Eastern Sector in December 1971. The task was successfully completed mainly due to Brigadier Pande's inspiring leadership. He was always well forward, unmindful of his safety, encouraging troops and directing the battle. The brigade group advanced forty miles in 72 hours, effectively bottling up the enemy and capturing key posts. When lodgment was attained in the fortress of Mynamati defences, the brigade was subjected to determined enemy attacks supported by tanks. Against all the relentless pressure of the enemy, the brigade held on to the defence until surrender by the enemy commander. 

Throughout the operations, Brigadier K.P Pande displayed gallantry, leadership and devotion to duty of a very high order.