Captain Yogender Singh Thakur of Himachal Pradesh Honored with Shaurya Chakra for Bravery in J&K Counter-Terrorism Mission
Captain Yogender Singh Thakur of 6 PARA (Special Forces) has been honored with the Shaurya Chakra, India's third-highest peacetime gallantry award, for his remarkable bravery and leadership during a counter-terrorism mission in Jammu and Kashmir. This prestigious recognition highlights his courage and dedication to duty.
The award was presented by President Droupadi Murmu at the Defence Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. The event was attended by key figures including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and senior military officials.
Captain Thakur comes from Dart Bagla Panchayat in the Jogindernagar subdivision of Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh. He is the son of Anil Thakur, a retired school principal, and Beena Devi, a homemaker.
Educated at Saraswati Vidya Mandir, Balkarupi, Jogindernagar, Captain Thakur was renowned for his academic achievements and active involvement in school activities. Teachers recall him as a disciplined student who excelled in both academics and co-curricular events.
His recognition has brought pride not only to his family but also to his school, community, and the entire state of Himachal Pradesh.
The operation that resulted in Captain Thakur receiving the Shaurya Chakra occurred in the Basantgarh area of Udhampur district, Jammu and Kashmir, where terrorists associated with Jaish-e-Mohammed were reported to be present.
On July 21, 2025, Captain Thakur led a mission to neutralize the terrorists in the challenging terrain. His team observed suspicious activity about a kilometer away, prompting him to reposition his ambush party strategically.
On July 26, 2025, around 0900 hours, the surveillance team noticed suspicious figures approximately 300 meters away. Despite unfavorable weather with dense fog and limited visibility, Captain Thakur maintained his position to prevent the terrorists' escape and avoid collateral damage.
When the terrorists launched heavy fire, Captain Thakur exhibited remarkable bravery and composure. Risking his life, he advanced under enemy fire to engage the terrorists.
Displaying exceptional combat proficiency and tactical awareness, he engaged in a close-quarter battle, ultimately neutralizing a hardcore terrorist, contributing significantly to the mission's success and safeguarding his team.
His actions thwarted the terrorists' escape, neutralizing a significant threat to security forces and civilians in the area. The Shaurya Chakra citation honors Captain Thakur's courage, combat skills, and commitment to mission success despite personal risk.
The announcement of the award sparked celebrations in Jogindernagar and Mandi district, with community members congratulating Captain Thakur and his family.
For his extraordinary gallantry, leadership, and dedication, Captain Yogender Singh Thakur has been awarded the Shaurya Chakra, bringing honor to Himachal Pradesh, the Indian Army, and the nation.
