Major Anuj Sood, Shaurya Chakra (posthumous), stands as a shining example of courage, leadership, and selfless service in the Indian Army. As a Company Commander with the 21st Battalion of the Rashtriya Rifles (on deputation from the 19th Battalion, Brigade of the Guards), he made the supreme sacrifice on 2 May 2020 during a counter-insurgency operation in Handwara, Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir. Leading from the front, he entered a terrorist-occupied house to rescue civilians held hostage, ultimately giving his life in the line of duty. For his conspicuous bravery, he was posthumously awarded the Shaurya Chakra, India’s third-highest peacetime gallantry award.
Early Life and Family Background
Major Anuj Sood was born on 17 December 1989 at the Air Force Command Hospital in Bengaluru, Karnataka. He hailed from Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh, though his family later settled in Chandigarh. He was the son of Brigadier Chandrakant Sood (Retired), an officer of the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME), and the late Smt. Ragini Sood, who passed away in 2011 after battling cancer.
Growing up in a military environment, Major Sood was exposed to the values of discipline, integrity, and patriotism from an early age. His father’s distinguished service in the Indian Army played a significant role in shaping his aspiration to join the armed forces. Those who knew him recall a determined young man who was clear about his goal of serving the nation as an infantry officer.
He is survived by his father, his wife Aakriti Singh Sood, his elder sister Shruti, and his niece Meera.
Education and Entry into the Armed Forces
Major Sood completed his schooling at Army Public School, Udhampur, and Punjab Public School, Nabha. In 2008, he joined the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla, where he quickly distinguished himself as a disciplined and capable cadet. Despite qualifying for engineering programmes at reputed institutions, he chose to pursue a career in the armed forces.
During his time at the NDA, he excelled in academics as well as extracurricular activities. He held important appointments, including Company Quarter Master Sergeant, and actively participated in activities such as paragliding and equestrian training. His consistent performance earned him recognition as a “torch holder,” a mark of excellence among cadets.
He later proceeded to the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, where he continued to demonstrate outstanding leadership qualities. On 9 June 2012, he was commissioned into the Brigade of the Guards. Graduating as the Senior Under Officer, he set a benchmark for professionalism and discipline early in his career.
Further reflecting his commitment to intellectual growth, Major Sood pursued and completed an M.Tech degree from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, with distinction.
Military Career and Professional Excellence
Major Sood began his service with the 19th Battalion, Brigade of the Guards, where he held key appointments including Platoon Commander, Adjutant, and Aide-de-Camp to a General Officer Commanding of the 14 RAPID Division. His performance in these roles showcased his organisational skills, attention to detail, and ability to lead under pressure.
He also successfully completed the prestigious Junior Command Course at the Army War College, Mhow, further honing his tactical and leadership capabilities.
In March 2018, he was deputed to the 21st Battalion of the Rashtriya Rifles, a unit actively engaged in counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir. As a Company Commander, he operated in one of the most challenging and volatile environments, leading his troops with courage and precision.
Colleagues often described him as a “scholar-soldier” — someone who combined intellectual depth with battlefield effectiveness. His leadership style was defined by leading from the front, meticulous planning, and an unwavering commitment to mission success.
Operation Chanjimula: The Final Mission
On 1 May 2020, intelligence inputs indicated the presence of terrorists in the forests of Kupwara district. A joint operation involving the Indian Army, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Jammu and Kashmir Police was launched to neutralise the threat.
By 2 May, fresh intelligence confirmed that heavily armed terrorists had taken shelter in a civilian house in Chanjimulla village and were holding residents hostage. The situation demanded swift and decisive action.
As Company Commander, Major Sood established a tight cordon around the target area with his Combat Action Team. Understanding that civilian lives were at immediate risk, he made the critical decision to personally lead the entry team into the house along with his Commanding Officer and fellow soldiers.
Inside, they encountered fierce resistance in a close-quarter battle. Despite being under heavy fire and sustaining injuries, Major Sood displayed exceptional courage and composure. He engaged the terrorists directly, injured them, and ensured that the trapped civilians were safely evacuated.
In the intense firefight, Major Sood and four other brave personnel — including his Commanding Officer Colonel Ashutosh Sharma, Naik Rajesh Kumar, Lance Naik Dinesh Singh, and Jammu and Kashmir Police Sub-Inspector Shakeel Qazi — made the supreme sacrifice. Their actions led to the neutralisation of terrorists and the successful rescue of civilians.
Shaurya Chakra and National Recognition
For his extraordinary bravery and selfless devotion to duty, Major Anuj Sood was posthumously awarded the Shaurya Chakra on 26 January 2021.
The official citation highlights his fearless leadership and disregard for personal safety while rescuing civilians and engaging terrorists. The award was presented to his wife, Aakriti Singh Sood, in recognition of his gallant actions and supreme sacrifice.
Personal Life and Legacy
Major Sood married Aakriti Singh Sood in 2017. She is a software engineer and the daughter of a Navy Marine Commando, reflecting a shared legacy of service to the nation. Their bond was marked by mutual respect and deep understanding, shaped by the demands of military life.
Beyond his professional achievements, Major Sood was known for his humility, warmth, and passion for life. He enjoyed biking and was known among friends for his meticulous planning and forward-looking approach.
His legacy continues to inspire not only his fellow soldiers but also countless young Indians aspiring to serve the nation. At the National Defence Academy, his coursemates honoured him by instituting the Major Anuj Sood Trophy and dedicating a flank in his memory.
A Lasting Inspiration
Major Anuj Sood’s life is a testament to the highest ideals of the Indian Army — courage, honour, and selfless service. At just 30 years of age, he demonstrated that true leadership lies in placing the safety of others above one’s own life.
