Field Marshal Manekshaw in critical condition

Field Marshal Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji ‘Bahadur’ Manekshaw, 94, a decorated officer who is credited for India’s victory over Pakistan in the war of 1971, is battling for life at the military hospital in Wellington in Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, after his lung infection worsened over the past four days.

He was admitted to the hospital recently after he complained of “bronchopneumonia with associated complications,” said a statement released by the hospital.

According to doctors at the hospital, Manekshaw was being provided the best medical support in the intensive care unit, with a pulmonologist from New Delhi’s Army hospital rendering expert assistance.

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Manekshaw, who settled down in Wellington after his retirement from the armed forces in 1973, was the only officer to be raised to the rank of Field Marshal while in service.

The only other Field Marshal was K M Cariappa, who was conferred the title at the age of 83.