Major Ashish Kumar Honored with Shaurya Chakra for Gallant Leadership in Kashmir Operation
In the challenging milieu of counter-terrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in areas marked by tough terrains and persistent danger, Major Ashish Kumar of the Indian Army’s 7th Battalion, Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), showcased extraordinary bravery and leadership. Leading a high-risk mission in November 2024 in the Larnoo area of the Anantnag district, he was instrumental in neutralizing two militants, including a Category ‘A’ commander trained in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
For his courage during this operation, Major Ashish Kumar was awarded the Shaurya Chakra, the third-highest peacetime gallantry award in India. President Droupadi Murmu presented this honor at the Defence Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan in June 2026.
Major Ashish Kumar, identified by Service Number IC-83864A, is part of the 7 Para Special Forces, a prestigious unit in the Indian Army. The Parachute Regiment’s Special Forces battalions are adept at executing complex missions, including counter-terrorism, direct action, reconnaissance, airborne operations, and precision strikes in hostile environments. These soldiers are meticulously selected and trained to operate in small teams amidst challenging terrains and high-stress situations.
The 7 Para SF is known for its professionalism and combat readiness, with officers and soldiers expected to exhibit not just physical endurance and tactical prowess, but also decisive action in perilous situations. Major Ashish Kumar exemplified these attributes as he led the charge during the risky encounter against armed insurgents in Anantnag.
The operation unfolded in early November 2024 in Anantnag’s Larnoo area, also known in reports as the Halkan Gali or Shangus-Larnoo sector. Acting on precise intelligence regarding the presence of militants, security forces initiated a cordon-and-search operation. The terrain posed significant challenges, and the militants were believed to be heavily armed, prepared for a standoff.
Major Ashish Kumar led the Special Forces team during this operation. When contact was made with the militants, a fierce close-quarter confrontation ensued, with the militants opening fire on security forces. Despite the life-threatening situation, Major Ashish Kumar advanced with resolve, skillfully leading the assault.
Throughout the engagement, Major Ashish Kumar demonstrated remarkable bravery and tactical acumen. He advanced personally towards the militants’ position, ensuring that the threat was neutralized without incurring casualties among his team. His leadership enabled the team to dominate the encounter and successfully conclude the mission.
The operation resulted in the elimination of two militants. One, identified as Arbaz Ahmad Mir, also referred to as Arbaz Ahmed Mir in some accounts, was a Pakistan-occupied Kashmir-trained terrorist commander associated with terror networks linked to LeT and PAFF. He had been listed as a terrorist under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act by the Ministry of Home Affairs in January 2023.
Arbaz Ahmad Mir was deemed a high-value target, reportedly involved in orchestrating terrorist activities and targeted killings in the Kashmir Valley. He had been evading capture for several years and was among the most wanted militants opposing security forces and civilians in the region. His elimination marked a significant achievement for the security forces.
The second militant killed was Zahid Ahmed Reshi, an associate of Arbaz Ahmad Mir. The successful elimination of both militants, without any casualties among security forces, underscored the meticulous planning, discipline, and execution of the operation. Weapons and incriminating materials were also seized from the encounter site.
Major Ashish Kumar’s bravery was particularly noted due to his leadership during the operation. In counter-terrorism efforts, especially in regions like South Kashmir, soldiers face challenges such as limited visibility, hostile terrain, and the risk of sudden attacks from concealed positions. Tactical-level leadership is crucial in such scenarios.
Major Ashish Kumar displayed personal valor by advancing towards the insurgents despite significant risk. His actions showcased composure under fire, extensive combat experience, and a clear grasp of the mission’s objectives. By leading from the front, he not only motivated his team but also ensured the operation’s success.
The Shaurya Chakra awarded to Major Ashish Kumar recognizes his conspicuous bravery. This award is one of India’s highest distinctions for peacetime gallantry, bestowed for acts of courage, valor, or self-sacrifice, particularly in counter-insurgency or counter-terrorism contexts. It follows the Ashoka Chakra and Kirti Chakra in precedence among peacetime awards.
Major Ashish Kumar's name featured in the official list of gallantry awards approved by the President of India on 14 August 2025, ahead of the 79th Independence Day. He was among the 16 individuals honored with the Shaurya Chakra that year, with the award formally presented during the Defence Investiture Ceremony in June 2026.
The operation in Larnoo highlighted the ongoing importance of intelligence-driven counter-terrorism efforts in Jammu and Kashmir. Security forces aim to eliminate foreign-trained militants, local operatives, and terror networks threatening regional peace and stability. The elimination of a POK-trained commander like Arbaz Ahmad Mir was a key success in this broader mission.
Special Forces units such as 7 Para SF are frequently tasked with missions necessitating speed, surprise, and precision. These operations occur in challenging conditions with high risks involved. Success relies on accurate intelligence, detailed planning, ground-level bravery, and robust leadership during combat.
Major Ashish Kumar’s actions in Anantnag embody the highest traditions of the Indian Army’s Special Forces. His leadership ensured the militants were neutralized, his team remained unharmed, and the mission concluded without casualties. While such deeds often go unnoticed, they are crucial in India’s ongoing battle against terrorism.
His story also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and risks undertaken by soldiers in counter-terrorism roles. Every operation demands discipline, patience, and a commitment to prioritize the mission and the safety of others over personal well-being. Major Ashish Kumar exemplified these principles through his actions.
By successfully neutralizing two militants, including a long-wanted POK-trained commander, Major Ashish Kumar made a significant contribution to security operations in South Kashmir. His bravery, tactical skills, and leadership under fire earned him national acclaim.
The awarding of the Shaurya Chakra to Major Ashish Kumar is a proud moment for the Indian Army and the Special Forces community. It honors not just his bravery but also the silent professionalism of soldiers operating in some of the country’s most challenging security environments.
Major Ashish Kumar’s story will continue to inspire young Indians aspiring to join the armed forces. His example embodies the spirit of the Indian soldier: courageous in action, composed in danger, and wholly committed to the nation.
