Army pays tribute to jawan martyred in Kulgam encounter

Army paid tributes to the soldier who was killed in a gunbattle with militants in Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir today.

"Army paid befitting tributes to Sapper Sada Gunakara Rao, who attained martyrdom during counter terrorist operations in Kulgam district," an army spokesman said in a statement.

Rao sustained bullet injuries during the fierce operation at Khudwani early today. He was provided immediate first aid and evacuated to 92 Base Hospital but he succumbed to injuries, the spokesman said.

General Officer Commanding of Chinar Corps, Lt Gen A K Bhatt, led all ranks in paying homage to the soldier on behalf of the nation.

"In a show of solidarity, representatives from other security agencies also joined in paying their last respects to the martyr," he said.

Rao (24) had joined the Army in 2012 and belonged to Atisurikaviti village of Srikakulam district in Andhra Pradesh. He is survived by his parents.

" The mortal remains of the martyr were flown for last rites to his native place, where he would be laid to rest with full military honours," the spokesman added.