North Sikkim/Itanagar: Lance Naik Ebet Paloh of the 2nd Arunachal Scout Regiment, serving with the Indian Army’s Gajraj Corps, was killed while on duty along the China border in North Sikkim on 19 October 2026, the Army and state leaders reported.
Service background and family
Paloh, who hailed from Geku Kumku village in Upper Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh, was born on 9 June 1994. He had served with the Indian Army for 13 years and was the son of Lom Paloh, according to official statements released by authorities in Itanagar.
Official reactions
Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein expressed deep sorrow at the soldier’s death, describing him as a brave son of Geku Kumku who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving with the Gajraj Corps. In a message posted on social media, the Deputy Chief Minister extended condolences to the bereaved family and said Paloh’s dedication would always be remembered.
“Deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Lance Naik Ebet Paloh… My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. May they find strength and courage during this difficult time. His bravery, dedication and supreme sacrifice for the nation will always be remembered. Om Shanti.” — Chowna Mein
The Indian Army’s Eastern Command also issued a condolence message, stating that Lieutenant General VMB Krishnan, Army Commander, Eastern Command, along with all ranks, expressed their deepest condolences over Paloh’s demise and reaffirmed support for his family. The Army described him as having “gallantly made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.”
Context and local impact
Paloh’s death comes at a time when the Indian Army maintains a heightened presence in border districts of Sikkim amid persistent strategic concerns along the India-China frontier. The loss will be keenly felt in his native Upper Siang district, where families and village communities maintain close ties with serving personnel.
Local administrations in Arunachal Pradesh typically coordinate with Army authorities in such cases to ensure timely assistance to the next of kin and to manage ceremonial and administrative requirements arising from a death in service. The Eastern Command’s statement that the Army stands with the bereaved family signals institutional support that generally includes financial entitlements and welfare measures, though specific details regarding benefits were not disclosed in the statements released so far.
What is known so far
- Name: Lance Naik Ebet Paloh
- Unit: 2nd Arunachal Scout Regiment, Gajraj Corps
- Date of death: 19 October 2026
- Place: Duty along the China border in North Sikkim
- Age and service: Born 9 June 1994; 13 years of service
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Hometown | Geku Kumku village, Upper Siang, Arunachal Pradesh |
| Command | Gajraj Corps; Eastern Command acknowledgement |
| Official responses | Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein; Army Eastern Command |
Next steps and enquiries
At the time of the Army’s release and the Deputy Chief Minister’s message, detailed circumstances surrounding the incident leading to Paloh’s death were not provided. The Army customarily completes internal inquiries into fatalities occurring on duty; any formal findings or additional information would be issued by the appropriate military authorities.
Officials in Upper Siang and the Army’s public relations branches usually coordinate to inform the family of entitlements and to arrange repatriation of the mortal remains. Further updates on ceremonial arrangements, official condolences from additional state or central leaders, and details of the posthumous support to the family were awaited.
The loss underscores the risks faced by troops posted in high-altitude border areas and the close bonds between hill communities and serving personnel. Both state and military statements affirmed solidarity with the family and paid tribute to Paloh’s service.
