Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu MVC was one of the bravest officers of the Indian Army who became a legend due to his exemplary conduct during the Galwan Valley Clash of 2020. While serving as the Commanding Officer of the 16 Bihar Regiment, Colonel Santosh Babu demonstrated extraordinary bravery while leading his men during one of the toughest battles ever fought on the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
Born in the city of Suryapet, Telangana, Colonel Santosh Babu always dreamt of serving his motherland through the Armed Forces. His journey from being a disciplined student at Sainik School Korukonda to becoming a Colonel in the Indian Army reflects dedication, hard work, and patriotism.
On 15 June 2020, during the Galwan Valley clash in eastern Ladakh, Colonel Santosh Babu sacrificed his life while leading his troops. For his outstanding courage and leadership, Colonel Santosh Babu was conferred with India’s second-highest wartime gallantry award, Maha Vir Chakra (Posthumous). Learn more about Colonel Santosh Babu, the brave Indian Army officer who led 16 Bihar Regiment during the Galwan Valley clash. Know about his age, family, Army career, education, awards, and heroic sacrifice.
Santosh Babu Biography Overview
| Details | Information |
| Full Name | Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu |
| Known As | Santosh Babu / Galwan Hero |
| Rank | Colonel (Commanding Officer) |
| Service | Indian Army |
| Regiment | 16 Bihar Regiment |
| Date of Birth | 13 February 1983 |
| Birthplace | Suryapet, Telangana |
| Date of Martyrdom | 15 June 2020 |
| Operation | Operation Snow Leopard |
| Battle | Galwan Valley Clash (Patrolling Point 14) |
| Award | Maha Vir Chakra (Posthumous) |
| Service Period | 2004–2020 |
Who Was Colonel Santosh Babu?
Colonel Santosh Babu was an honorable Indian Army officer who served as the Commanding Officer of the 16 Bihar Battalion. He was respected by his soldiers for his calm nature and commitment to duty.
His career in the Indian Army involved several crucial responsibilities, including tough postings and foreign missions. He was not only a leader but also a commander who motivated his men with his deeds.
Leadership, according to Colonel Santosh Babu, meant being there with his soldiers during tough times. This aspect of his character was reflected during the Galwan Valley episode, where he led from the front.
Early Life and Childhood
Colonel Santosh Babu was born on 13 February 1983 in the city of Suryapet, Telangana. His childhood was marked by discipline, good education, and strong family values.
Since his early age, he showed interest in studies and leadership roles. His passion was to join the Indian Army and serve the country.
Col. Santosh Babu went to school at the prestigious Sainik School Korukonda (Roll No. 2488) in Andhra Pradesh, which plays a key role in grooming students for a defence career. At Sainik School, he acquired the qualities of discipline, confidence, and leadership.
Santosh Babu Family Background
Colonel Santosh Babu belonged to a supportive family from Telangana. His family played an important role in motivating his dreams of joining the armed forces.
Family Details
| Family Member | Name |
| Father | Bikkumalla Upender Babu |
| Mother | Bikkumalla Manjula |
| Wife | Santoshi |
| Daughter | Abhigna |
| Son | Anirudh Teja |
His family was always behind him during his military career, and after his martyrdom, they became an example of courage and pride for the whole nation.
Santosh Babu Education
Col. Santosh Babu received his education from the Sainik School Korukonda, Andhra Pradesh. After completing his schooling, he got selected in the defence entrance test on the very first attempt and joined the National Defence Academy (NDA).
Col. Santosh Babu further joined Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun after completing his studies at NDA (105th Course).
Education Details
| Qualification | Institution |
| School Education | Sainik School Korukonda |
| Military Training | National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla |
| Officer Training | Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun |
Joining Indian Army
After completing his training, Santosh Babu got commissioned into the Indian Army on 10 December 2004 as a Lieutenant. Col. Santosh Babu joined the 16 Bihar Regiment of the Indian Army.
The Bihar Regiment has a long tradition of bravery and military success. Serving in this regiment helped Colonel Santosh Babu develop excellent battlefield experience and leadership skills.
Santosh Babu Army Career Timeline
| Year | Career Achievement |
| 1983 | Born in Suryapet, Telangana |
| 2000 | Joined National Defence Academy (NDA) |
| 2004 | Commissioned as Lieutenant in 16 Bihar Regiment |
| 2006 | Promoted to Captain |
| 2010 | Promoted to Major |
| 2014 | Served in UN Peacekeeping Mission in Congo |
| 2017 | Promoted to Lieutenant Colonel |
| 2019 | Took command as Colonel of 16 Bihar Regiment |
| 2020 | Martyred during Galwan Valley Clash |
Colonel Santosh Babu Military Career: 16 Bihar Regiment, Congo Mission & Leadership Journey
Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu had a brilliant military career that spanned for almost 16 years and involved service in challenging environments and carrying various vital responsibilities. Starting as a young Army officer to reaching the position of Commanding Officer of 16 Bihar Regiment, his career was marked by discipline, professionalism, and leadership qualities.
Colonel Santosh Babu was known among his fellow soldiers for his calm nature and ability to lead from the front. His military career included operational deployments, international missions, command responsibilities before finally going on his last mission in Galwan Valley.
Colonel Santosh Babu Joining Indian Army
After completing his training at the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, Santosh Babu got commissioned into the Indian Army on 10 December 2004 as a Lieutenant. He joined the respected 16 Bihar Regiment of the Indian Army.
Bihar Regiment is one of the oldest infantry regiments of the Indian Army and has a glorious tradition of courage and battlefield excellence. Serving in this regiment helped Colonel Santosh Babu gain excellent operational experience and leadership abilities.
Army Joining Details
| Category | Information |
| Commission Date | 10 December 2004 |
| Rank at Joining | Lieutenant |
| Regiment | 16 Bihar Regiment |
| Service | Indian Army |
| Service Period | 2004–2020 |
Colonel Santosh Babu Army Career Timeline
Col. Santosh Babu’s military career was full of constant growth, dedication, and increasing responsibilities.
| Year | Career Achievement |
| 2004 | Commissioned into Indian Army as Lieutenant |
| 2004 onwards | Served with 16 Bihar Regiment in counter-insurgency areas |
| 2006 | Promoted to Captain |
| 2010 | Promoted to Major |
| 2014-2015 | Deployed on United Nations Mission in Congo |
| 2017 | Promoted to Lieutenant Colonel |
| 2019 | Took command of 16 Bihar Regiment |
| 2020 | Led troops during Galwan Valley Clash |
Colonel Santosh Babu and 16 Bihar Regiment
One of the greatest achievements of Colonel Santosh Babu’s career was becoming the Commanding Officer of 16 Bihar Regiment. Becoming a CO of a battalion is considered a very important responsibility in the Indian Army because the Commanding Officer is responsible for the training, discipline, and readiness of his men.
Col. Santosh Babu took command of the battalion in 2019 and then became responsible for leading his troops in the challenging high-altitude environment of eastern Ladakh.
Responsibilities as Commanding Officer
| Responsibility | Details |
| Battalion Command | 16 Bihar Regiment |
| Leadership Role | Commanding Officer (CO) |
| Location | Eastern Ladakh Sector |
| Main Duty | Border Security & Troop Leadership |
| Operation | Operation Snow Leopard |
Colonel Santosh Babu United Nations Mission in Congo
Prior to taking command of 16 Bihar Regiment, Colonel Santosh Babu also served in a United Nations mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO).
This posting gave him valuable experience in international military operations and dealing with difficult situations. During his Congo mission, he served in challenging conditions where leadership, communication, and decision-making skills were extremely important.
Congo Mission Experience
| Category | Details |
| Mission | United Nations Peacekeeping Mission (MONUSCO) |
| Country | Democratic Republic of Congo |
| Role | Indian Army Officer / Peacekeeper |
| Skills Developed | Leadership & International Operations |
Colonel Santosh Babu Leadership Qualities
Colonel Santosh Babu was respected by his fellow soldiers for his leadership qualities and personality. He believed in leading from the front and maintaining close ties with his men.
- Calm Decision Making: Even in difficult situations, Colonel Babu was known for remaining composed and making practical decisions.
- Leading By Example: He did not expect his soldiers to face challenges that he would avoid himself. His actions during the Galwan Valley incident reflected this quality.
- Respect For Soldiers: A successful commander understands the importance of morale. Colonel Babu always focused on motivating and supporting his men.
- Professional Excellence: His career reflected discipline, dedication, and continuous improvement.
Operation Snow Leopard and Eastern Ladakh Deployment
In 2020, tensions increased along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China. Col. Santosh Babu and his battalion were posted in the eastern Ladakh region as part of Operation Snow Leopard.
The operation demanded soldiers to operate in one of the toughest terrains of the world, where extreme weather conditions, high altitude, and operational challenges tested their stamina.
The region presented challenges such as:
- Extremely cold temperatures (sub-zero weather)
- High-altitude conditions with low oxygen levels
- Difficult and rocky mountainous terrain
- Continuous operational alertness along the border
Galwan Valley Clash 2020: The Beginning of a Historic Battle
The most important episode of Colonel Santosh Babu’s life was the clash that happened in the Galwan Valley on 15 June 2020. The clash occurred in the region of eastern Ladakh along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) at Patrolling Point 14 (PP-14).
Colonel Santosh Babu was leading 16 Bihar Regiment during the clash. The incident became one of the toughest India-China border clashes in decades and resulted in the death of Colonel Santosh Babu and 19 other brave Indian soldiers.
Colonel Santosh Babu’s Role in Galwan Valley
During the Galwan Valley clash, Colonel Santosh Babu displayed extraordinary courage and leadership. According to his gallantry citation, he showed bravery while performing his duties and leading his troops during a highly challenging situation.
He was devoted to his duties as a Commanding Officer of 16 Bihar Regiment to verify the disengagement process on the ground.
His actions during the clash became an example of:
- Courage under extreme pressure
- Leadership in difficult circumstances
- Commitment towards national duty
- Supreme sacrifice for the nation
Galwan Valley Clash 2020: Colonel Santosh Babu’s Final Battle
The Galwan Valley Clash of 2020 became one of the most important events in recent Indian military history. It was during this clash that Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu, the Commanding Officer of the 16 Bihar Regiment, displayed exceptional courage and leadership while performing his duties.
The clash took place on the night of 15 June 2020 in the Galwan Valley region of eastern Ladakh, near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China. Col. Santosh Babu was leading his troops during a sensitive situation where maintaining peace and compliance with the agreement between both sides was the primary objective. His courage and devotion during the clash made him a national hero.
Background of Galwan Valley Clash
The Galwan Valley is situated in the high-altitude region of eastern Ladakh and has great strategic significance due to its location near the India-China border and the Shyok River road network.
In 2020, tensions increased between Indian and Chinese troops due to disagreements over the military posts and activities along the LAC. The Indian Army had posted troops in the region as part of Operation Snow Leopard to maintain security and protect India’s territorial interests.
Galwan Valley Overview
| Category | Details |
| Location | Eastern Ladakh |
| Region | Galwan Valley (Patrolling Point 14) |
| Border Area | Line of Actual Control (LAC) |
| Date of Clash | 15 June 2020 |
| Indian Unit Involved | 16 Bihar Regiment |
| Commanding Officer | Colonel Santosh Babu |
| Operation | Operation Snow Leopard |
Colonel Santosh Babu’s Leadership During Galwan Clash
As the Commanding Officer of the 16 Bihar Regiment, Col. Santosh Babu had the responsibility of leading his troops during this sensitive situation.
His role required:
- Maintaining discipline among soldiers
- Handling a challenging operational environment
- Protecting national interests without stepping back
- Showing leadership during uncertainty
According to his gallantry citation, Col. Santosh Babu displayed exceptional courage and leadership while performing his duties during the clash.
The Night of 15 June 2020
On the night of 15 June 2020, Indian and Chinese troops faced a physical clash in the Galwan Valley near PP-14.
The situation became extremely challenging due to:
- High-altitude battlefield conditions
- Complete darkness and steep rocky terrain
- Freezing weather and icy river waters
- Close physical confrontation without firearms
Col. Santosh Babu led his troops during this critical situation. Being targeted and outnumbered, he remained devoted to his responsibility as a commanding officer. His actions showed the highest standards of military leadership.
Colonel Santosh Babu’s Courage and Sacrifice
Col. Santosh Babu was in the forefront during the clash. His leadership inspired his troops and demonstrated his devotion towards the nation.
During the clash, he sacrificed his life while performing his duties.
His sacrifice represented:
- Courage in the face of danger
- Loyalty towards the country
- Leadership under extreme pressure
- Dedication towards fellow soldiers
Maha Vir Chakra Award: India’s Tribute to Colonel Santosh Babu
For his outstanding courage and supreme sacrifice during the Galwan Valley clash, Colonel Santosh Babu was honored with Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) posthumously on Republic Day 2021.
The Maha Vir Chakra is India’s second-highest wartime gallantry award, awarded for acts of exceptional courage in the presence of the enemy.
The award recognised Colonel Santosh Babu’s:
- Exceptional leadership under fire
- Personal bravery
- Unmatched devotion to duty
- Sacrifice during combat
Maha Vir Chakra Details
| Category | Information |
| Award | Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) |
| Award Status | Posthumous |
| Recipient | Colonel B. Santosh Babu |
| Reason | Exceptional courage during Galwan Valley Clash |
| Award Category | Wartime Gallantry Award |
Colonel Santosh Babu Maha Vir Chakra Citation
The gallantry citation highlighted the exceptional courage of Col. Santosh Babu while leading his troops during the Galwan Valley incident.
His citation described how he displayed:
- Outstanding leadership qualities in the presence of hostility
- Courage under extremely difficult high-altitude circumstances
- Complete commitment towards his mission
- Leadership from the front until his last breath
Awards and Honours Received by Colonel Santosh Babu
Throughout his military career, Col. Santosh Babu received awards and honors for his distinguished service.
Awards and Recognition
| Award / Honour | Details |
| Maha Vir Chakra | Awarded posthumously for Galwan Valley bravery |
| UN MONUSCO Medal | For service in UN Peacekeeping Mission in Congo |
| Military Service Recognition | Special Service Medal & High Altitude Medals |
Colonel Santosh Babu’s Family After Martyrdom
Col. Santosh Babu’s martyrdom deeply affected his family and the whole nation. His family became an example of courage and pride after his martyrdom.
In tribute to his bravery, the Telangana State Government gave financial assistance and appointed his wife, Mrs. Santoshi Babu, as a Deputy Collector (Group-1 Officer) in Telangana.
Family Details
| Family Member | Name |
| Father | Bikkumalla Upender Babu |
| Mother | Manjula |
| Wife | Santoshi (Deputy Collector, Telangana) |
| Daughter | Abhigna |
| Son | Anirudh Teja |
Colonel Santosh Babu’s Legacy
The legacy of Colonel Santosh Babu goes far beyond his military achievements. He is remembered as a leader who epitomized courage, discipline, and responsibility.
His life inspires:
- Young defence aspirants preparing for NDA and CDS
- Indian Army personnel serving on borders
- Students interested in serving the nation
- Citizens who respect the sacrifices of soldiers
Memorials and Tributes for Colonel Santosh Babu
Following his martyrdom, a few tributes have been paid to acknowledge his contributions and sacrifices.
His native place, Suryapet, Telangana, has paid him tribute by erecting a bronze statue of him at the centre of the town square.
Major Tributes
| Tribute | Details |
| Suryapet Memorial Statue | Bronze statue installed in Suryapet, Telangana |
| Galwan Memorial | Name inscribed at Post 120 Memorial in Ladakh |
| Public Recognition | Honoured nationwide as the Galwan Hero |
| Military Tributes | Special honors paid by 16 Bihar and Indian Army |
Lesser Known Facts About Santosh Babu
- Colonel Santosh Babu was born on 13 February 1983 in Suryapet, Telangana.
- He studied at Sainik School Korukonda under Roll No. 2488.
- He cleared NDA entrance on his very first attempt after school.
- He was commissioned into the Indian Army on 10 December 2004.
- He served with the 16 Bihar Regiment throughout his career.
- He served in a United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo.
- He became Commanding Officer of 16 Bihar Regiment in December 2019.
- He led his troops during Operation Snow Leopard in Ladakh.
- He was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra posthumously.
- His wife Santoshi was appointed as a Deputy Collector by the Telangana Government.
Colonel Santosh Babu Wife and Personal Life
Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu was not only a brave Army officer but also a devoted family man. He kept his family close to him even when he spent much time in serving his nation.
He hailed from a disciplined and patriotic family from Suryapet, Telangana, who always supported his dreams and aspirations.
After his sacrifice during the Galwan Valley Clash in 2020, he left his family as a national hero for all India.
Colonel Santosh Babu Wife
The wife of Colonel Santosh Babu is Santoshi. She was his pillar of support since the beginning till the end of his Army career.
As a wife of an Army officer, she experienced all the difficulties of being a part of a defence family like frequent postings, uncertainty of duties and operational situations etc.
After the martyrdom of Colonel Santosh Babu, Santoshi was appointed as Group-1 Deputy Collector by Telangana Government.
Wife Details
| Category | Information |
| Wife Name | Santoshi Babu |
| Husband | Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu |
| Profession | Deputy Collector (Group-1 Officer, Telangana) |
| Known For | Strength, Resilience & Supporting Army Legacy |
Colonel Santosh Babu Children
The wife of Colonel Santosh Babu gave birth to two children. They also inherit the legacy of their great father, who sacrificed himself in the nation’s interest during the Galwan Valley clash to become a national hero.
Children Details
| Child | Name |
| Daughter | Abhigna |
| Son | Anirudh Teja |
Colonel Santosh Babu Family Overview
| Family Member | Name |
| Father | Bikkumalla Upender Babu |
| Mother | Manjula |
| Wife | Santoshi |
| Daughter | Abhigna |
| Son | Anirudh Teja |
Colonel Santosh Babu Salary
Colonel Santosh Babu has rendered his services in the Indian Army for nearly 16 years. As a Colonel (Level 13 in 7th Pay Commission), his salary was calculated on the basis of official government pay structure for senior Army officers.
His income included:
- Basic military pay (Scale ₹1,30,600 – ₹2,15,900)
- Military Service Pay (MSP of ₹15,500/month)
- Rank-based allowances and Dearness Allowance (DA)
- Field area / High-altitude allowances (applicable in Ladakh)
Salary Details
| Category | Information |
| Rank | Colonel (Commanding Officer) |
| Organisation | Indian Army |
| Regiment | 16 Bihar Regiment |
| Income Source | Defence Service Pay Matrix (Level 13) |
| Allowances | High Altitude, MSP & Military Allowances |
| Pay Scale Status | As per 7th Pay Commission Rules |
Colonel Santosh Babu Net Worth
There is no commercial net worth applicable to Colonel Santosh Babu. Army officers live dedicated lives based on military service rules.
The real net worth of Colonel Santosh Babu was his respect, medals and honor.
Net Worth Overview
| Category | Details |
| Estimated Net Worth | Not Applicable / Military Officer |
| Profession | Indian Army Officer |
| Main Income Source | Army Pay & Allowances |
| Legacy | Maha Vir Chakra & National Respect |
Colonel Santosh Babu Social Media Presence
Colonel Santosh Babu belonged to a service cadre of Army officers who do not create any kind of personal social media account for security reasons. Thus, he did not have any social media presence.
Nowadays, millions of Indians share his story on social media platform to honor his sacrifice.
Social Media Details
| Platform | Status |
| No Official Account (Tribute Pages Available) | |
| Tribute Pages & Military Posts Available | |
| X (Twitter) | Official Defense & National Tributes Available |
| YouTube | Documentaries & Tribute Videos Available |
| No Official Profile |
Colonel Santosh Babu Complete Career Highlights
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu |
| Regiment | 16 Bihar Regiment |
| Commission Year | 10 December 2004 |
| Military Training | NDA Khadakwasla & IMA Dehradun |
| International Service | UN Peacekeeping Mission in Congo (MONUSCO) |
| Battalion Command | 16 Bihar Regiment (CO) |
| Major Operation | Operation Snow Leopard |
| Major Battle | Galwan Valley Clash (PP-14) |
| Date of Martyrdom | 15 June 2020 |
| Gallantry Award | Maha Vir Chakra (Posthumous) |
Why Colonel Santosh Babu Is Remembered as Galwan Hero?
Colonel Santosh Babu is remembered as Galwan Hero because of his extraordinary courage and leadership displayed during the 2020 Galwan Valley Clash.
His story represents:
- Leadership From The Front: As a Commanding Officer, he personally led his soldiers during the confrontation at PP-14.
- Courage Under Extreme Conditions: The Galwan region presented one of the toughest battlefield environments due to altitude, cold, and terrain.
- Commitment Towards Duty: He remained focused on protecting national territorial integrity without backing down.
- Inspiration For Future Generations: His life continues to inspire young Indians who dream of serving the country in uniform.
Leadership Lessons From Colonel Santosh Babu
Colonel Santosh Babu’s life can teach many lessons about leadership and dedication.
1. A True Leader Stands With His Team
The first lesson that his life taught us is that a true leader stands by his team members even in adverse conditions.
2. Discipline Creates Excellence
His journey from Sainik School Korukonda to become a Colonel is a clear example of the significance of discipline and dedication to success.
3. Courage Defines Character
His extraordinary courage displayed during the Galwan Valley clash is also one of the key lessons to be learned from his life.
4. Service Above Self
His ultimate sacrifice shows the highest military value – the willingness to put the interests of the nation and troop safety above his own.
FAQs
Who was Santosh Babu?
Santosh Babu was an Indian Army Colonel and the Commanding Officer of the 16 Bihar Regiment who was martyred during the Galwan Valley Clash in 2020.
What was Colonel Santosh Babu famous for?
Colonel Santosh Babu became famous for his extraordinary bravery, leadership, and sacrifice during the Galwan Valley Clash against foreign forces in Eastern Ladakh.
Which award did Santosh Babu receive?
He was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra (Posthumous), India’s second-highest wartime gallantry award, on Republic Day 2021.
When did Colonel Santosh Babu die?
Colonel Santosh Babu was martyred on the night of 15 June 2020 during the Galwan Valley Clash.
Which regiment did Santosh Babu command?
He commanded the 16 Bihar Regiment of the Indian Army.
Conclusion
Colonel Santosh Babu is one of the most respected heroes of Indian Army. His journey from being a disciplined student at Sainik School Korukonda to becoming a Commanding Officer of 16 Bihar Regiment shows dedication, courage and commitment to his country.
His leadership during the 2020 Galwan Valley clash made him a symbol of courage and sacrifice. In recognition of his extraordinary courage, he was honored with the Maha Vir Chakra award ensuring that his name will forever be written in golden letters in the pages of Indian military history.
In addition to all this, Colonel Santosh Babu’s life teaches many other values such as discipline, leadership and putting nation above oneself.
Also, Read About: Major Vivek Jacob Biography: 9 Para SF Veteran, Army Career, Accident, Team CLAW & Life Story
