Shimla, February 2
Residents of Lahaul-Spiti have celebrated the selection of BSF Deputy Commandant Balbir Singh, who hails from Lahaul, for the Gallantry Award.
Last year, the Naxals attacked a BSF patrol team in the Kanker forest of Chhattisgarh. Balbir showed rare courage and launched a counter-attack leading to the killing of five Naxals.
Balbir has also been selected for the UN peace-keeping force and he will serve the UN for a year. “It is an honour for Lahaul. Balbir has brought laurels to the state,” said Suresh Vidyarthi, a resident of Lahaul. — OC