
Brave Soldiers Honored for Valor
76th Republic Day: Gallantry Awards for 11 Heroes
India celebrated the 76th Republic Day by honoring the extraordinary bravery of its soldiers who have shown remarkable courage in the face of danger. Eleven Indian Army personnel were recognized for their fearless acts, including counter-terrorism operations and challenging missions. Their sacrifices and leadership stand as a testament to their dedication to the nation.
Gallantry Awards and Their Significance
The awards conferred on Republic Day celebrate acts of exceptional bravery and service. The Kirti Chakra, Shaurya Chakra, and other gallantry honors represent the highest respect for courage displayed in the line of duty. These awards not only highlight the bravery of the recipients but also inspire future generations to serve the nation with honor and valor.
Major Manjit – Kirti Chakra
Major Manjit of the Punjab Regiment/22nd Battalion, Rashtriya Rifles, received the Kirti Chakra, the second-highest peacetime gallantry award. On April 25, 2024, he led an operation in Sopore, Jammu and Kashmir, to neutralize two foreign terrorists. Braving heavy fire, he rescued civilians and eliminated one terrorist, exemplifying exceptional leadership and bravery.
Naik Dilwar Khan – Kirti Chakra (Posthumous)
Naik Dilwar Khan, part of the 28th Battalion, Rashtriya Rifles, was posthumously awarded the Kirti Chakra for his courageous actions during an ambush in Kupwara on July 23, 2024. Despite heavy fire, Naik Khan engaged a terrorist in hand-to-hand combat, sacrificing his life to ensure the mission’s success. His legacy of fearlessness remains an inspiration.
Shaurya Chakra Recipients
Major Ashish Dahiya – Outstanding Leadership
Major Ashish Dahiya, Corps of Engineers/50th Battalion, Rashtriya Rifles, earned the Shaurya Chakra for his actions during an operation in Pulwama on June 2, 2024. Under intense fire, he neutralized a high-value target and saved an injured comrade, showcasing his bravery and commitment.
Major Kunal – Tactical Expertise
Major Kunal of the Army Service Corps/1st Battalion, Rashtriya Rifles, received the Shaurya Chakra for leading his team during a close-combat operation in Kulgam on May 6, 2024. His ability to neutralize a top-ranking terrorist while protecting his team demonstrates his exceptional tactical skill.
Major Satender Dhankar – Unwavering Dedication
Major Satender Dhankar of the Armoured Corps/4th Battalion, Rashtriya Rifles, was recognized for his bravery during a counter-terrorist operation in Doda on June 26, 2024. Despite facing heavy fire, he eliminated multiple terrorists, including one armed with a rocket launcher.
Captain Deepak Singh – Courage Beyond Limits
The Shaurya Chakra was posthumously awarded to Captain Deepak Singh, Corps of Signals/48th Battalion, Rashtriya Rifles, for his bravery on August 13, 2024. Despite sustaining severe injuries, he neutralized a terrorist before succumbing to his wounds, embodying the spirit of ultimate sacrifice.
Assistant Commandant Eshenthung Kikon – Leadership in Crisis
Assistant Commandant Eshenthung Kikon of the 4th Assam Rifles demonstrated exceptional leadership in Manipur on August 5, 2024. Leading his unit under pressure, he neutralized a significant threat, earning the Shaurya Chakra for his quick thinking and valor.
Subedar Vikas Tomar – Excellence in Action
Subedar Vikas Tomar of the 1st Battalion, Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), displayed unmatched courage on September 11, 2024, during a mission in Dhagri Forest. Despite heavy fire, he neutralized a terrorist and ensured his team’s safety, earning the Shaurya Chakra.
Subedar Mohan Ram – Rescue Hero
Subedar Mohan Ram of the 20th Battalion, The Jat Regiment, displayed extraordinary bravery during a rescue mission in Manipur on February 13, 2024. Leading his team under fire, he saved 38 villagers despite being injured, exemplifying heroism.
Havildar Rohit Kumar – Mountaineering Bravery
Havildar Rohit Kumar, of the High-Altitude Warfare School, posthumously received the Shaurya Chakra for his courage during a mountaineering mission on Mount Kun in October 2023. Despite dangerous conditions, he ensured his team’s safety before succumbing to an avalanche.
Havildar Prakash Tamang – Close Combat Courage
Havildar Prakash Tamang of the 9th Gorkha Rifles/32nd Battalion, Rashtriya Rifles, earned the Shaurya Chakra for leading his team during a firefight in June 2024. Despite injuries, he neutralized a terrorist in close combat, demonstrating exemplary bravery.
National Gratitude
The gallantry awards presented this Republic Day underline the commitment of the Indian Army to national security and the soldiers’ dedication to duty. These stories inspire civilians and serve as reminders of the sacrifices made to protect the nation’s sovereignty.