Rayagada: A 30-year-old soldier from Odisha’s Rayagada district, V Teja, was martyred while on duty in Nagaland on Monday.

Teja was serving as a jawan with the Assam Rifles. He was reportedly hit by a bullet and rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him dead.

The news of his death left his family, friends and residents of Rayagada shocked, as preparations were underway for his marriage in December. His wedding was scheduled for December 10, and he had also been granted 50 days of leave. He was expected to return to Rayagada during Diwali.

Teja, who would have turned 31 on October 7, had joined the Indian Army in 2022. According to his family, he had signed an organ donation declaration two years ago.

Honouring his wish, his organs were retrieved and preserved at a local hospital in Nagaland, his younger brother said.

Teja's mortal remains will be brought to Visakhapatnam by a special helicopter via Hyderabad. From Visakhapatnam, the body will be transported to Rayagada by a special ambulance later on Tuesday.