Gandemu Mukunda Rao, SM

Biography

Naib Subedar Gandemu Mukunda Rao hailed from Amadalasa village in the Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh. Raised in a family that valued patriotism and public service, he grew up with a strong sense of duty, discipline and dedication. After completing his education, he chose to serve the nation by joining the Indian Army, where he was inducted into the 8 Engineer Regiment, part of the illustrious Madras Engineering Group (MEG), popularly known as the "Sappers." The Corps of Engineers is one of the Army's most vital combat support arms, responsible for tasks such as constructing bridges, laying and clearing minefields and building field defences. Through his technical skill and leadership, Naib Subedar Mukunda Rao upheld the proud traditions of his regiment and earned the respect of all who served alongside him. Following the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord of July 1987, his unit became one of the first to join the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) deployed under Operation Pawan. As civilians began returning to their homes in Jaffna, many premises were found heavily mined and rigged with booby traps, and the Army launched a massive operation to make them safe. On 12 August 1987, Naib Subedar Mukunda Rao's team, led by Major GHD Dulip Singh and including Lieutenant Pankaj Vikram and Naib Subedar Dhyalan, was tasked with clearing explosives from houses near Jaffna Fort. After successfully defusing charges in one house, they moved to a nearby compound where a booby trap was identified. Fully aware of the danger, Naib Subedar Mukunda Rao took charge of clearing the trap when the LTTE triggered another improvised explosive device, causing a massive explosion. Grievously wounded, he later succumbed to his injuries. For his exemplary courage, leadership and supreme sacrifice, he was awarded the Sena Medal.