Tamil Nadu CM Honors Gallantry Awardee Lance Naik Meenatchi Sundaram with ₹48 Lakh Cheque
In a solemn ceremony on Monday, the Honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru. S. Joseph Vijay, met with Lance Naik A. Meenatchi Sundaram, who was awarded the Kirti Chakra, India's second-highest peacetime gallantry honour. The meeting took place at the Secretariat, where the Chief Minister presented the soldier with a cheque for ₹48 lakh on behalf of the Tamil Nadu government, acknowledging his courageous service to the nation.
Lance Naik A. Meenatchi Sundaram hails from Kamayagoundanpatti village in Theni district and serves with the 34 Rashtriya Rifles, affiliated with the Regiment of Artillery. He was awarded the Kirti Chakra for his bravery during a counter-terrorism operation in Kulgam district, Jammu and Kashmir, in December 2024.
In the midst of intense combat, Lance Naik Sundaram sustained serious gunshot wounds to his face and shoulder. Despite these critical injuries, he demonstrated remarkable courage and skill, engaging in close-quarters battle to neutralise a hardcore terrorist, thereby safeguarding his fellow soldiers and playing a crucial role in the operation's success.
His valiant efforts were formally recognised by the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, who awarded him the Kirti Chakra on June 8, 2026, during the Defence Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. His return to his hometown was marked by great pride and celebration from the local community.
At the Secretariat meeting, the atmosphere was filled with warmth and respect. Chief Minister Joseph Vijay honoured Lance Naik Meenatchi Sundaram in front of his family, engaging warmly with the soldier's young child, adding a personal touch to the official proceedings. The government’s financial gesture underscores Tamil Nadu’s deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by its armed forces personnel.
The gesture reaffirms the state's unwavering commitment to honouring its defence heroes and supporting their families. It reflects the deep respect and gratitude that Tamil Nadu extends to all personnel serving in the Indian Armed Forces who uphold the nation’s security with distinction and selflessness.
This felicitation has been widely welcomed as a fitting tribute to Lance Naik A. Meenatchi Sundaram’s indomitable spirit and a reaffirmation of the enduring bond between the people of Tamil Nadu and their brave soldiers.
