Brave Indian Army Soldier Awarded Kirti Chakra After Neutralising Terrorist Despite Severe Injuries
In the realm of counter-terrorism operations, moments of bravery often unfold within seconds. Such was the case for Lance Naik Meenatchi Sundaram A of the Indian Army. On December 19, 2024, in the challenging landscape of the Kulgam district in South Kashmir, he faced a perilous encounter. Assigned to the 34th Battalion of the Rashtriya Rifles, Lance Naik Sundaram sustained critical gunshot injuries to his face and right shoulder during a fierce exchange with terrorists. Despite these grave wounds, he pressed on, engaging the threat directly and successfully neutralising a heavily armed terrorist at close quarters.
This act of remarkable courage earned him the Kirti Chakra, India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award.
Belonging to the Regiment of Artillery and serving with the 34 Rashtriya Rifles, a unit known for its counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir, Lance Naik Sundaram was accustomed to confronting danger. Rashtriya Rifles units frequently operate in highly volatile environments, conducting intelligence-driven operations, search missions, and direct confrontations with terrorists.
On that day in December 2024, the operation in Kulgam was initiated based on specific intelligence inputs. Lance Naik Sundaram was part of the team executing the mission. As they moved forward, they engaged in a close-quarter battle with terrorists.
In the course of this violent exchange, he was struck by bullets, suffering serious injuries to his face and shoulder. Such wounds could have incapacitated most soldiers, but Lance Naik Sundaram demonstrated extraordinary physical and mental resilience.
Despite the severe pain, significant blood loss, and the surrounding danger, he refused to retreat. He continued engaging the terrorist and managed to eliminate one of the hardcore threats at close range. His actions ensured the operation maintained its momentum, averting further risk to the lives of his fellow soldiers.
His bravery was notable not only for fighting under fire but for continuing the fight after sustaining potentially fatal injuries. In counter-terrorism operations, particularly in difficult terrains and at close distances, such courage can be decisive.
His valiant efforts did not go unnoticed. On the eve of Independence Day 2025, he was announced as a recipient of the Kirti Chakra. This award acknowledged his undeterred spirit, exemplary bravery, and steadfast devotion during the counter-terrorist operation.
On June 8, 2026, during the Defence Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Droupadi Murmu presented the Kirti Chakra to Lance Naik Sundaram. The event celebrated numerous Armed Forces personnel who demonstrated exceptional courage in various operations.
The Kirti Chakra is a prestigious gallantry award granted for conspicuous bravery, often in situations other than direct combat with the enemy. It recognizes those who display outstanding courage during high-risk operations.
The story of Lance Naik Meenatchi Sundaram A serves as a testament to the valor exhibited by Indian Army soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir. His actions exemplify physical endurance, mental fortitude, and unwavering commitment to the mission.
For those aspiring to join the Armed Forces, his narrative underscores the qualities cherished by the military: courage amidst adversity, presence of mind during critical moments, resolve despite severe injuries, and selfless dedication to duty.
His example will continue to motivate young Indians aspiring to serve in the Armed Forces. Lance Naik Sundaram proved that true bravery is not the absence of fear or pain, but the perseverance to pursue the mission despite both.
Taking a bullet to the face did not deter him; he stood resolute, fought back, and eliminated a terrorist threat. His story remains a lasting symbol of the Indian Army’s ethos of duty, sacrifice, and valor.
