Sun May 11 10:05:03 UTC 2025: ## Andhra Pradesh Honours Slain Soldier with State Funeral and Generous Compensation

**PUTTAPARTHI, Andhra Pradesh, May 11, 2025** – Thousands gathered in Kalli Thanda hamlet, Sri Sathya Sai district, Andhra Pradesh, today to pay their respects to Army jawan Murali Naik (24), who was killed in the line of duty. Naik’s funeral, held with full military and state honours, was marked by an outpouring of grief and pride. The ceremony included floral tributes, displays of the national flag, and chants of “Bharat Mata ki Jai” and “Murali Naik Amar Rahe.”

High-ranking officials, including Deputy Chief Minister Konidala Pawan Kalyan and IT and HRD Minister Nara Lokesh, attended the funeral and offered condolences to Naik’s family. The government announced significant compensation, including a ₹50 lakh ex gratia payment, five acres of agricultural land, a 300-square-yard housing plot, and a government job for Naik’s father. Mr. Kalyan also added ₹25 lakhs from his personal funds.

Minister Lokesh further announced that a memorial would be erected in Naik’s honour and considered renaming Kalli Thanda to “Murali Naik Thanda” at the request of villagers. Both ministers emphasized the nation’s gratitude for Naik’s supreme sacrifice. Senior Indian Army officials, the District Collector, and Superintendent of Police were also present at the ceremony. Naik’s body arrived from Bengaluru late Saturday, with the journey significantly delayed by the large number of people paying tribute along the route.

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