In a moment of profound national significance, the Jammu & Kashmir Rifles Regiment has bid a heartfelt farewell to Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Sanjay Kumar, recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, upon his retirement after more than three decades of exemplary service to the nation. This retirement marks the end of an era, as Kumar stands as the last serving awardee of India’s highest wartime gallantry honor in the Indian Army.
The regiment’s tribute encapsulates the essence of Kumar’s legacy: “With immense pride and deep gratitude, The Jammu & Kashmir Rifles Regiment bids a heartfelt farewell to Sub Maj (Hony Capt) Sanjay Kumar, #ParamVirChakra, on his retirement after decades of distinguished service to the Nation. A hero of unparalleled courage whose gallantry in battle brought immortal honour to the Regiment and the #IndianArmy. Throughout his service, his humility, discipline and quiet strength inspired generations of soldiers. More than a decorated warrior, he remains the true reflection of the fearless yet humble Indian soldier. As he embarks on a new chapter, the Regiment salutes his legacy of valour and service and wishes him continued strength, happiness and success in the years ahead.”
Born on March 3, 1976, in the village of Kalol Bakain in Himachal Pradesh, Sanjay Kumar enlisted in the Indian Army at the age of 19, joining the 13th Battalion of the Jammu & Kashmir Rifles (13 JAK RIF) in 1996. His early career was marked by dedication and resilience, but it was during the Kargil War in 1999—under Operation Vijay—that he etched his name into the annals of military history.
At just 23 years old, Rifleman Kumar volunteered to lead a scouting party to capture the strategically vital Point 4875 in the Mushkoh Valley sector. Facing intense enemy fire from Pakistani intruders entrenched in bunkers, Kumar’s unit was pinned down. Undeterred, he charged forward alone, sustaining multiple bullet wounds to his chest and forearm. Despite severe injuries, he engaged in hand-to-hand combat, neutralizing several enemy soldiers and capturing the bunker. His actions not only turned the tide of the battle but also inspired his comrades to press on, securing the position at great personal risk. For this extraordinary bravery, he was awarded the Param Vir Chakra on January 26, 2000, becoming one of only 21 recipients since the award’s inception in 1950.
Kumar’s post-Kargil career was characterized by steady progression through the ranks, reflecting the Indian Army’s emphasis on merit and seniority. He was promoted to Naib Subedar in 2014, Subedar Major in February 2022, Honorary Lieutenant on August 15, 2025, and finally to Honorary Captain on January 26, 2026—just weeks before his retirement on February 28, 2026. This trajectory was not without challenges; in 2010, Kumar faced a temporary demotion due to a disciplinary issue, but his rank was restored following intervention by higher authorities, underscoring the Army’s commitment to fairness.
Throughout his service, Kumar exemplified the qualities of a true soldier: humility, discipline, and unwavering commitment. He often shared his experiences to motivate young recruits, emphasizing that gallantry stems from duty rather than personal glory. “Duty was my creed,” he remarked modestly in a recent interaction, highlighting his philosophy of selfless service. His presence in the ranks inspired countless soldiers, serving as a living testament to the valor displayed during the Kargil conflict, which claimed over 500 Indian lives but ultimately reclaimed territorial integrity.
As the sole active Param Vir Chakra awardee from the Kargil War retires, his departure leaves a notable void in the Indian Army. Only three PVC recipients from that conflict were honored—Yogendra Singh Yadav, Manoj Kumar Pandey (posthumous), and Grenadier Vikram Batra (posthumous)—making Kumar’s longevity in service particularly remarkable. The Himachal Pradesh government has extended a job offer to him, which he may consider after fulfilling his service tenure to secure post-retirement benefits.
Kumar’s retirement has elicited widespread admiration across social media and defense circles. The Central Command of the Indian Army echoed the regiment’s sentiments, noting his role as a “Pride of the Nation.” Institutions like the Doon Defence Academy have hailed him as a symbol of “courage, grit, and selfless devotion,” with tributes pouring in from veterans and aspiring officers alike.
In an era where military heroes often fade into obscurity, Sanjay Kumar’s story endures as a beacon of inspiration. As he transitions to civilian life, the nation salutes not just his battlefield exploits but his enduring embodiment of the Indian soldier’s spirit. The uniform may rest, but the legend of Honorary Captain Sanjay Kumar, PVC, will indeed live forever.
