Mahavir Chakra (MVC)

On 17 October when reports of a heavy Chinese concentration opposite post Chandni started coming in, Major Sardul Singh Randhawa, 14J &K Militia (Ladakhis), was in command of Sub-sector HQ in the area of Karakoram Pass and Chip Chap River in Northern Ladakh. He moved from one post to another in the face of enemy fire, inspiring confidence in his men and conducting operations creditably against overwhelming enemy superiority.

When the Chandni and nearby posts were overrun by numerically superior enemy and the communications were cut off, he moved with reinforcement in biting cold. He personally endangered his own safety, went round and picked up several survivors and selected new positions. He again proved invaluable on 22 October 1962 in the conduct of withdrawal from Daulat Beg Goldi, passing over 5 glaciers and the semi frozen Chip Chap River. The courage and sincere devotion to duty shown by Major Randhawa against a superior enemy in spite of endangering his own life were in the best traditions of the Indian Army.