MARCOS Officer Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar Honored with Shaurya Chakra for Gallantry in Counter-Terror Operation
Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar, part of the Indian Navy's prestigious Marine Commando Force known as MARCOS, has been awarded the Shaurya Chakra for his outstanding bravery, tactical skill, and selfless leadership during a perilous counter-terror operation.
The Shaurya Chakra, India's third-highest peacetime gallantry award, is given for acts of valor and duty. Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar received this honor from President Droupadi Murmu at the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2026, acknowledging his gallant actions during a joint cordon and search operation on November 6, 2024.
His efforts during the mission led to the successful elimination of two terrorists without any harm to his team, highlighting his courage under fire and adherence to the highest standards of the Indian Armed Forces.
On the night of November 5/6, 2024, a joint security operation was launched in a sensitive area to neutralize terrorist threats. As a MARCOS officer, Lieutenant Commander Prashar participated alongside other security forces.
During the mission, a terrorist cornered by the security cordon attempted an escape. Such scenarios in counter-terror operations pose significant danger, as escaping terrorists can lead to troop casualties or chaos in the area.
In a critical moment, Lieutenant Commander Prashar swiftly recognized the threat's seriousness. With notable courage and presence of mind, he drew the terrorist's fire to himself, revealing his position to shield his teammates and manage the threat effectively.
Lieutenant Commander Prashar's actions were further distinguished by his identification of a second concealed terrorist while under direct threat.
As the initial terrorist attempted to breach the cordon, Prashar detected another hidden adversary, posing a severe risk to the team. Under intense pressure, he engaged the second terrorist and alerted his teammate in time.
This blend of bravery, alertness, and tactical awareness was crucial. His swift warning enabled a coordinated response, preventing the team from being ambushed by the hidden threat.
Due to his decisive actions, both terrorists were eliminated without any casualties to Prashar's team.
During the Defence Investiture Ceremony, the citation for Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar emphasized his exceptional bravery and rapid response during the operation.
The citation explained how, when a terrorist attempted to breach the security cordon, Prashar quickly assessed the situation and, showing immense courage, drew fire and targeted a second hidden terrorist, alerting his teammate simultaneously.
It further highlighted that his tactical acumen led to the successful elimination of both terrorists without any casualties to his team.
For his outstanding gallantry and tactical insight, surpassing the call of duty, Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar received the Shaurya Chakra.
Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar is a member of the Indian Navy's Marine Commando Force, an elite special forces unit engaged in demanding missions including maritime operations, counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and reconnaissance.
Although primarily a naval special forces unit, MARCOS personnel undertake land-based counter-terror and counter-insurgency roles when specialized training and joint operations are necessary.
Lieutenant Commander Prashar's actions epitomize the MARCOS ethos — courage, stealth, precision, and dedication to mission. His conduct during the November 6, 2024 operation demonstrated physical bravery and calm decision-making under direct threat.
In counter-terror operations, swift and decisive leadership is crucial. Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar exemplified this by risking his own safety to protect his team and preventing a potential surprise attack by identifying and engaging a hidden terrorist.
His actions ensured the operation's success without any casualties.
The Shaurya Chakra awarded to Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar is a testament to his bravery and dedication. It also honors the professionalism of Indian special forces who operate in challenging environments.
His story is one of courage, selflessness, and clear thinking under extreme danger.
For those aspiring to serve in defense, young officers, and citizens, Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar’s story is inspirational. It highlights the readiness of the nation's defenders to face danger without hesitation.
Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar's courageous actions on November 6, 2024, embody the highest traditions of the Indian Navy and Armed Forces. His bravery ensured mission success and team safety.
In extreme danger, he prioritized action over hesitation, courage over fear, and duty over personal safety.
His Shaurya Chakra is a symbol of honor, sacrifice, and extraordinary service to the nation.
