In counter-terrorism operations, courage is often tested in a matter of seconds. For Lance Naik Meenatchi Sundaram A of the Indian Army, that moment came on 19 December 2024 in the rugged terrain of Kulgam district in South Kashmir. Serving with the 34th Battalion of the Rashtriya Rifles, he sustained severe gunshot wounds to his face and right shoulder during an intense firefight with terrorists. Despite the grievous injuries, he continued to fight, closed in on the threat, and neutralised a hardcore terrorist at close range.
For this extraordinary act of bravery, Lance Naik Meenatchi Sundaram A was awarded the Kirti Chakra, India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award.
Lance Naik Meenatchi Sundaram A belongs to the Regiment of Artillery and was serving with 34 Rashtriya Rifles, a counter-insurgency force deployed in Jammu and Kashmir. Rashtriya Rifles units operate in some of the most challenging security environments in the country, where soldiers frequently carry out intelligence-based operations, cordon-and-search missions, and direct engagements with terrorists.
On 19 December 2024, a counter-terrorist operation was launched in Kulgam district based on operational inputs. Lance Naik Meenatchi Sundaram A was part of the team involved in the action. As the operation progressed, contact was established with terrorists, leading to a close-quarter firefight.
During the exchange of fire, he was hit by bullets and suffered serious injuries to his face and right shoulder. Such wounds could have easily incapacitated a soldier in the middle of combat. However, Lance Naik Meenatchi Sundaram A displayed remarkable courage and presence of mind.
Despite pain, blood loss, and the danger around him, he refused to give up. He continued to engage the terrorist and neutralised one hardcore terrorist at close range. His action helped his team maintain the momentum of the operation and prevented the situation from turning more dangerous for the troops involved.
His bravery stood out not only because he fought under fire, but because he continued to fight after sustaining life-threatening injuries. In counter-terrorism operations, where engagements often happen in difficult terrain and at very short distances, such courage can decide the outcome of an operation.
The gallant action of Lance Naik Meenatchi Sundaram A was later recognised by the nation. On the eve of Independence Day 2025, his name was approved for the Kirti Chakra. The award recognised his indomitable spirit, exceptional bravery, and devotion to duty during the counter-terrorist operation.
On 8 June 2026, President Droupadi Murmu presented the Kirti Chakra to Lance Naik Meenatchi Sundaram A during the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2026 at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The ceremony honoured several brave personnel of the Armed Forces who had displayed exceptional courage in different operations.
The Kirti Chakra is awarded for conspicuous gallantry otherwise than in the face of the enemy. It is one of India’s highest gallantry honours and is often awarded to personnel who show extraordinary courage during counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency, and other high-risk operations.
Lance Naik Meenatchi Sundaram A’s story is a powerful reminder of the courage shown by Indian Army soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir. His actions reflect physical toughness, mental strength, and complete commitment to the mission.
For defence aspirants, his story also represents many qualities valued in the Armed Forces. He showed courage under fire, presence of mind in a critical situation, determination despite severe injuries, and selfless devotion to duty.
His example will continue to inspire young Indians who dream of joining the Armed Forces. He proved that true courage is not about the absence of fear or pain. It is about continuing the mission despite both.
Lance Naik Meenatchi Sundaram A took a bullet on his face, but he did not step back. He stood firm, fought back, and neutralised a terrorist. His story will remain a shining example of the Indian Army’s spirit of duty, sacrifice, and valour.
