Albert Ekka's initial life was set apart by humble starting point, he was born on 27th December 1942 in a small tribal village called Zari, situated in the Gumla region of present-day Jharkhand (then part of Bihar), India. His parents were Julius Ekka and Mariam Ekka. Ekka's belonged to the indigenous Oraon tribe, which has historically inhabited the region.


In pursuit of a better life and to serve the nation, Albert Ekka joined the Indian Army, a decision that would eventually lead him to become a symbol of bravery and sacrifice.


During the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, India intervened in support of the Bangladeshi independence movement, which sought liberation from West Pakistan. Albert Ekka's battalion, the 14th Battalion of the Brigade of the Guards, was deployed in the eastern theatre of the conflict.


The Battle of Gangasagar took place in the Sylhet region of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) on 3rd December 1971. The area was intensely defended by the Pakistani forces, and the Indian soldiers faced fierce resistance as they sought to advance.


During the battle, Ekka's unit encountered entrenched enemy positions armed with heavy machine guns. Despite the intense gunfire and the daunting odds, Lance Naik Albert Ekka fearlessly charged towards the enemy positions. With utter disregard for his personal safety, he engaged the enemy in close combat and took out two enemy machine gun positions, eliminating the threat they posed to his unit.


In the face of his fierce assault, four Pakistani soldiers were killed, which demonstrated the immense impact of his actions on the outcome of the battle. Ekka's extraordinary courage and determination inspired his fellow soldiers and provided them with the much-needed momentum to push forward in the face of adversity.


However, during the attack, Albert Ekka was severely wounded by an enemy machine gun burst. Despite his injuries, he continued to display indomitable spirit and refused to retreat, pressing forward to support his comrades.


Tragically, Lance Naik Albert Ekka's brave efforts came at a great cost. He succumbed to his injuries on the battlefield, making the ultimate sacrifice for his country. His gallant actions and selfless devotion to duty had a lasting impact on his fellow soldiers and became a shining example of bravery.


In recognition of his exceptional valor and supreme sacrifice, the Indian government posthumously honored Albert Ekka with the Param Vir Chakra, the highest military decoration awarded for acts of valor in the face of the enemy. The award ceremony took place on 21st February 1972, where his family received the medal on his behalf. He became the first soldier from the newly formed state of Jharkhand to receive this prestigious award.


Albert Ekka's legacy remains enshrined in the hearts of the Indian people, and he is celebrated as a national hero. His name adorns streets, schools, and other institutions across India, serving as a reminder of the extraordinary bravery displayed by the soldiers who defend the nation. His story continues to inspire generations, and his sacrifice serves as a constant source of motivation for the Indian armed forces and citizens alike.