Mahavir Chakra (MVC)

Lieutenant Colonel Chittoor Venugopal was commanding a battalion of Gorkha Rifles during the operations on the Eastern Front. On 4 December 1971, the battalion came up against well fortified enemy defences at Uthali and Darsana. The position had a series of concrete pillboxes interconnected with elaborate communication trenches. Lieutenant Colonel Venugopal planned the attack with great professional skill. Showing complete disregard for his personal safety, he led the attack and by this presence inspired his men to achieve the objective. After the capture of these two positions, the battalion relentlessly pursued the withdrawing enemy giving him no rest or time to regroup till Jhenida was captured three days later. 

Throughout, Lieutenant Colonel Venugopal displayed conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty in the best traditions of the Army.