Aizawl, Mizoram: In a heartfelt tribute blending military tradition with recognition of lifelong national service, the Indian Army’s Eastern Command and Spear Corps, in collaboration with the Territorial Army and Assam Rifles, celebrated the 99th birthday of Padma Shri Havildar Lalbiakthanga Pachuau (Retd) in Aizawl on March 25, 2026. The veteran, who has now entered his centennial year, was felicitated for his extraordinary journey from the battlefields of World War II to becoming one of India’s most respected voices in journalism and social service.
Havildar Lalbiakthanga Pachuau, a distinguished veteran of the 3rd Battalion, The Assam Regiment, joined the British Indian Army on August 28, 1945, at the age of 18. He served during the final stages of the Second World War, participating in operations against Japanese forces in the Indo-Burma theatre and earning several medals for his service. His military career exemplified the valour and discipline that defined an entire generation of Indian soldiers.
Following his retirement from the Army, Havildar Pachuau dedicated himself to nation-building through a different yet equally impactful medium. He pursued journalism and literature with remarkable zeal, earning widespread acclaim as India’s oldest working journalist, a title conferred by the Mizoram Journalists’ Association. His contributions to truthful reporting, literature, and social service have left an indelible mark on Mizo society and the broader Northeast region.
In recognition of his outstanding achievements in the field of literature and education (journalism), the Government of India conferred the **Padma Shri**, the country’s fourth-highest civilian award, on him in 2021. Even at an advanced age, he continues to inspire younger generations through his unwavering commitment to ethical journalism and community welfare.
The birthday celebration, organised under the aegis of Eastern Command and Spear Corps, saw enthusiastic participation from personnel of the Territorial Army and Assam Rifles. The event featured traditional military honours, including performances by the Assam Rifles pipe band, reflecting the deep respect the armed forces hold for veterans who continue to contribute to society long after hanging up their uniforms.
Lt Col Mahendra Rawat, Defence Spokesman, highlighted the significance of the occasion, noting that such events strengthen the bond between serving soldiers and veterans while reinforcing the ethos of selfless service to the nation.
Havildar Pachuau’s life story stands as a powerful narrative of transition “From Valour to Voice.” From facing enemy fire in World War II to championing truthful discourse in post-independence India, his journey embodies the spirit of dedication that transcends military service and civilian life. As he steps into his 100th year, his legacy continues to motivate both the armed forces and civil society in their shared pursuit of nation-building.
The Indian Army has consistently emphasised the welfare and honouring of its veterans, and events like this underscore the respect accorded to those who have served with distinction in uniform and beyond. Havildar Lalbiakthanga Pachuau remains a living testament to the timeless values of courage, integrity, and service that define the Indian Armed Forces and the nation they protect.
contact: drrajeshjauhri@gmail.com
Dr Rajesh Jauhri is a Journalist with an experience of over 25 years in Indian and foreign media, a Social Scientist, an Ac-complished Author, a Political & Strategic Analyst, a Marksman (Rifle & Pistol), an Orator, a Thinker and an Educationist. He holds a Ph.D. degree on “Impact of colonial heritage on Indian police”. He runs an NGO dedicated to the social and eco-nomic uplift of tribal communities in MP and two decades back, he established a school in a village of Indore district, providing education and moral values to children belonging to underprivileged and minority families. Has received multiple awards in various fields.
