In a courageous hostage rescue operation in Arunachal Pradesh’s Longding district, Major Leishangthem Deepak Singh of the elite 11th Battalion, The Parachute Regiment Special Forces, displayed exceptional bravery, leadership and tactical skill. His actions on 25 April 2025 led to the safe rescue of innocent civilians who had been abducted by NSCN (KYA) cadres.
For his outstanding courage and devotion to duty, Major Leishangthem Deepak Singh was awarded the Shaurya Chakra, India’s third-highest peacetime gallantry award. President Droupadi Murmu conferred the honour on him during the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2026 Phase-I at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, on 8 June 2026.
A Brave Officer from Manipur
Major Leishangthem Deepak Singh hails from Manipur, a state known for producing many brave soldiers and officers for the Indian Armed Forces. His gallantry has brought immense pride to his home state, his unit and the Indian Army.
While detailed information about his early life and family background is limited in the public domain, his achievement has been widely celebrated. For the people of Manipur, his Shaurya Chakra is a proud moment and a reminder of the state’s strong contribution to national security.
As an officer of the Parachute Regiment Special Forces, Major Deepak Singh is part of one of the most elite formations of the Indian Army. Special Forces officers and soldiers undergo extremely tough training and selection before earning the right to wear the maroon beret and serve in such high-risk operational roles.
The Elite 11 PARA Special Forces
The 11th Battalion, The Parachute Regiment Special Forces, also known as 11 PARA SF, is among the Indian Army’s most respected Special Forces units. The unit is trained for difficult missions such as counter-insurgency, counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, reconnaissance and other high-risk operations.
Special Forces soldiers often operate in remote, hostile and challenging terrain. Their missions demand courage, patience, physical toughness and quick decision-making under pressure. Major Deepak Singh’s actions during the hostage rescue operation reflected these qualities in the highest measure.
Hostage Situation in Longding District
On 25 April 2025, two construction workers were abducted from the general area of Pangchao in Longding district of Arunachal Pradesh. The abduction was carried out by cadres of the NSCN (KYA) faction.
The region is located in a sensitive and difficult area, with thick forests and remote border terrain. Any rescue operation in such conditions carries great risk, especially when innocent civilians are being held hostage by armed insurgents.
The situation required quick action but also extreme caution. A direct attack without careful planning could have placed the hostages in greater danger. Major Leishangthem Deepak Singh took charge of the operation and led his team with calmness and courage.
The Daring Rescue Operation
Acting on important intelligence, Major Deepak Singh moved towards the location of the terrorists. Even after identifying the terrorists at an early stage, he made the bold decision to close in carefully because the safety of the hostages was the top priority.
As he advanced towards the target, the terrorists opened heavy fire. Despite the danger, Major Deepak Singh continued to move forward. His objective was clear — to rescue the innocent civilians and neutralise the threat without causing harm to the hostages.
In the close-quarter engagement that followed, Major Deepak Singh neutralised one terrorist at extremely close range. At the same time, he used his own body as a shield to protect a kidnapped civilian and safely extricated the hostage from danger.
During the operation, another terrorist attempted to flee from the area. Major Deepak Singh acted quickly and inflicted grievous injuries on the fleeing terrorist. His action prevented further danger and contributed to the success of the operation.
The operation resulted in the safe rescue of the hostages and the neutralisation of hardcore NSCN (KYA) cadres. A large quantity of weapons and war-like stores was also recovered from the area.
A Display of Courage and Tactical Skill
Major Leishangthem Deepak Singh’s role in the operation showed not only personal bravery but also sharp tactical judgement. In a hostage rescue situation, one wrong decision can put innocent lives at risk. His decision to advance under fire and physically shield a hostage showed extraordinary courage and responsibility.
His leadership ensured that the operation was carried out with precision. He remained focused under heavy fire, protected the civilians and engaged the terrorists at close range. These actions reflected the highest traditions of the Indian Army and the Parachute Regiment Special Forces.
The operation also highlighted the importance of coordination between security forces in sensitive areas of the Northeast. Joint efforts by the Indian Army and Assam Rifles played a key role in maintaining security and countering insurgent threats in the region.
Awarded the Shaurya Chakra
For his act of gallantry, Major Leishangthem Deepak Singh was awarded the Shaurya Chakra. The award recognised his undaunted courage, skilled leadership and outstanding tactical acumen during the hostage rescue operation.
The official citation stated that while serving in the Northeast, he received information about the abduction of innocent civilians by terrorists and, without caring for his own life, took the courageous decision to rescue the hostages himself.
The citation further mentioned that while moving towards the target under heavy terrorist firing, he killed one terrorist from extremely close range and used himself as a shield to safely rescue the hostage civilians. He also wounded another terrorist who was trying to escape.
The citation praised his skilled guidance, through which innocent civilians were safely freed and a large quantity of weapons and war material was recovered.
Honoured at Rashtrapati Bhavan
On 8 June 2026, President Droupadi Murmu presented the Shaurya Chakra to Major Leishangthem Deepak Singh during the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2026 Phase-I at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi.
The ceremony honoured several brave personnel of the Armed Forces and security forces for their acts of courage and sacrifice. Major Deepak Singh’s name stood out as a shining example of calm leadership and fearless action in a dangerous hostage rescue mission.
His award was also a proud moment for Manipur. State leaders and citizens congratulated him and expressed pride in his achievement. His bravery has inspired many young people, especially defence aspirants from the Northeast and across India.
Inspiration for Defence Aspirants
Major Leishangthem Deepak Singh’s story is a powerful example for young defence aspirants preparing for NDA, CDS, AFCAT, SSB Interview and other military entry routes.
His actions reflect several important Officer Like Qualities, including courage, initiative, leadership, decision-making under pressure, responsibility and concern for the safety of others. These are the qualities expected from officers of the Indian Armed Forces.
In the operation, he did not think about his own safety first. He focused on saving innocent lives and completing the mission. This spirit of service before self is at the heart of military leadership.
A True Special Forces Warrior
Major Leishangthem Deepak Singh’s bravery in Arunachal Pradesh is a reminder of the quiet and difficult work carried out by India’s Special Forces in remote and sensitive areas. These operations often take place far away from public attention, but they play a crucial role in protecting citizens and maintaining peace.
By rescuing hostages, neutralising terrorists and recovering weapons, Major Deepak Singh upheld the finest traditions of the Indian Army. His courage brought honour to 11 PARA SF, the Parachute Regiment, Manipur and the entire nation.
Major Leishangthem Deepak Singh stands as a true example of bravery, professionalism and dedication to duty. His Shaurya Chakra is not just an award, but a recognition of his courage in the face of danger and his commitment to protecting innocent lives.
His story will continue to inspire soldiers, officers and defence aspirants across the country.
