Jammu, January 31, 2026 – The Government of Jammu and Kashmir has officially renamed the Kathua Railway Station as “Martyr Captain Sunil Kumar Choudhary Kathua Railway Station” to commemorate the valor and sacrifice of Captain Sunil Kumar Choudhary, a decorated officer of the Indian Army who laid down his life in the line of duty. This decision, formalized through Government Order No. 129-JK(GAD) dated January 29, 2026, reflects the administration’s commitment to honoring military heroes and has been met with widespread appreciation from local leaders and the martyr’s family.
The renaming pays tribute to Captain Choudhary, who served with the 7/11 Gorkha Rifles and demonstrated exceptional bravery during counter-insurgency operations in Assam’s Tinsukia district. Born on June 22, 1980, and commissioned into the Indian Army on December 10, 2004, he was awarded the Sena Medal for gallantry on January 26, 2008, for his role in neutralizing United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) commanders in Naopather village. Tragically, just one day later, on January 27, 2008, Captain Choudhary led an assault in Rangagarh village, where he sustained a severe gunshot wound to the chest. Despite his injury, he continued to engage the enemy, eliminating two militants before succumbing to his wounds at the age of 27. For his indomitable courage, he was posthumously conferred the Kirti Chakra, India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh expressed profound gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for approving the renaming, highlighting it as a prompt response to longstanding demands from the local community. In a statement shared on social media, Dr. Singh noted, “Kathua Railway Station renamed as ‘Martyr Captain Sunil Kumar Choudhary Kathua Railway Station’. Thanks, PM Narendra Modi, for acceding to the demand within days of my raising it on behalf of the martyr’s family and the people of Kathua.” The new designation will be displayed in both English and Hindi, ensuring it serves as a enduring memorial in the martyr’s home district.
The family of Captain Choudhary has welcomed the gesture, viewing it as a fitting recognition of his legacy. His father, Colonel (Retd.) P.L. Choudhary, stated, “The government has issued a notification to rename the Kathua railway station after my son to honor his sacrifice. This initiative… is very commendable. Renaming schools and playgrounds after them motivates children from a young age, inspiring them to serve the nation.” The martyr’s parents emphasized that such tributes ensure his memory endures, fostering national pride and inspiring future generations.
This renaming aligns with broader efforts by the Indian government to immortalize the contributions of armed forces personnel through public infrastructure dedications. Local representatives and residents of Kathua have hailed the move as a symbol of respect for the sacrifices made in safeguarding the nation’s security. As the station continues to serve as a vital transportation hub, it now stands as a poignant reminder of Captain Choudhary’s unwavering dedication to duty.
