From October 2015 to February 2016, Captain Pawan Kumar led his troop in four successful operations that resulted in the elemination of six terrorists. On 20 February 2016, still recovering from his past injury and contrary to the medical advice, Captain Pawan Kumar led his troop during Pampore operation at Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir.
Despite grave personal risk the officer conducted close reconnaissance of the target building and decided to conduct building intervention operation – a high risk option to obviate collateral damage. Leading from the front, he reached the top floor, firing into the door and window of the room in which the terrorists were holed up.
As he kicked the door to lob the grenade inside, the hidden terrorist shot him from a close range. Undeterred by his grievous injuries and refusing evacuation, the officer kept firing at the terrorist killing him. His gallant action saved the lives of his comrades and set the stage for elimination of remaining terrorists.
Captain Pawan Kumar displayed unparalleled courage and indomitable spirit in four consecutive operations and made supreme sacrifice for the nation.
