Paltan 2018

Rajput Battalion Stationed

In October 1962, a Rajput Battalion is stationed at the border near the Namka Chu river in Arunachal Pradesh. This battalion is preparing for any potential threats to national security as tensions with neighboring China grow increasingly precarious.

Unexpected Attack

During the early morning hours, the Rajput Battalion suffers a devastating surprise attack that leads to their complete annihilation. This tragic incident escalates fears of vulnerability along the Indian border.

Assignment to Nathu La Pass

Fast forward to 1966, Maj. General Sagat Singh assigns Lt. Col. Rai Singh Yadav to secure the strategic Nathu La pass. Understanding the critical importance of this location to Sikkim, he emphasizes the need to hold the position at all costs.

Introduction of Key Officers

As preparations proceed, we meet Rai's second-in-command, Maj. Bishen Singh, and Capt. Prithvi Singh Dagar. The interaction highlights the dynamics among the officers as they brace themselves for the challenges ahead.

Harbhajan's Quest for Vengeance

Amidst mounting tensions, Maj. Harbhajan Singh seeks revenge for the brutal treatment of Rajput soldiers back in 1962. His desire for retribution becomes a driving force for him as he prepares to protect his fellow soldiers.

Chinese Provocations Begin

Chinese military actions escalate as they construct new bunkers along the border, which indicates preparations for a potential conflict. This provocation heightens anxieties among Indian troops stationed at Nathu La.

Personal Strains of Military Life

Back home, Harbhajan’s girlfriend, Harjyot Kaur, expresses her frustration over his unwillingness to reject multiple marriage proposals. Similarly, Prithvi's fiancé struggles to express her feelings amidst societal pressures.

Tactic Exchanges

In response to the aggressive tactics employed by the Chinese, Rai implements psychological strategies as a defense. This leads to a series of tense exchanges as the situation between the two nations becomes increasingly volatile.

Intelligence Gathering Mission

In a strategic move, Rai orders 2Lt. Attar Singh to infiltrate Chinese territory to gather critical intelligence. Attar discovers major military mobilization which poses a significant threat to the Indian forces at Nathu La.

Establishment of Border Fencing

In response to escalating tensions, General Sagat mandates the establishment of a demarcated fencing along the border. This fence quickly becomes a flashpoint as the Chinese attempt to dismantle it, leading to further confrontations.

Direct Confrontation Erupts

The tension boils over when the Chinese initiate a direct confrontation by firing upon Indian troops working on the border fencing. In retaliation, the Indian army engages, resulting in significant casualties for both forces.

Surprise Invasion by Chinese Troops

Despite Rai's calls for artillery support, orders come down to maintain positions. This leads to an unexpected invasion by Chinese troops who have secretly dug a tunnel to facilitate troop movement close to the border.

Dagar’s Heroic Sacrifice

In a moment of immense bravery, Captain Prithvi Singh Dagar sacrifices himself to destroy the tunnel, cutting off Chinese reinforcements. This act of heroism exemplifies the valor exhibited by the Indian soldiers during the conflict.

Casualties Mount for Indian Forces

During a final surge of enemy troops, Maj. Harbhajan is killed while bravely defending against overwhelming odds. His loss is felt deeply among the ranks as the battle intensifies.