Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar of the Indian Navy’s elite Marine Commando Force, popularly known as MARCOS, has been decorated with the Shaurya Chakra for displaying exceptional courage, tactical brilliance and selfless leadership during a high-risk counter-terror operation.
The Shaurya Chakra is India’s third-highest peacetime gallantry award and is conferred for acts of bravery, courageous action and devotion to duty. Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar received the honour from President Smt. Droupadi Murmu during the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2026, recognising his conspicuous gallantry during a joint cordon and search operation conducted on 6 November 2024.
His actions during the operation led to the successful elimination of two terrorists without any casualties to his own team, making his story one of courage under fire and professional excellence in the finest traditions of the Indian Armed Forces.
The Operation on 6 November 2024
On the night of 5/6 November 2024, security forces launched a joint cordon and search operation in a sensitive area to neutralise terrorist threats. Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar, serving as a MARCOS officer, was part of the operation alongside other security forces.
During the operation, one terrorist who had been cornered by the security cordon attempted to break out. Such moments in counter-terror operations are extremely dangerous, as a desperate terrorist trying to escape can inflict sudden casualties on the troops, break the cordon, or create confusion in the area.
In that critical moment, Lieutenant Commander Prashar immediately assessed the seriousness of the situation. Without hesitation, he acted with remarkable courage and presence of mind. Displaying immense fearlessness, he deliberately drew the terrorist’s fire towards himself, exposing his own position in order to protect his teammates and control the evolving threat.
Swift Action Under Fire
What made Lieutenant Commander Prashar’s action even more extraordinary was his ability to identify a second hidden terrorist while already facing direct danger.
As the first terrorist attempted to break through the cordon, Lieutenant Commander Prashar spotted another terrorist who was concealed and posed a serious threat to the team. Under intense pressure, he engaged the second terrorist while simultaneously alerting his teammate in time.
This combination of bravery, alertness and tactical awareness proved decisive. His quick thinking ensured that the team was not caught off guard by the hidden terrorist. His timely warning enabled a coordinated response by the troops.
As a result of his decisive action, both terrorists were successfully eliminated by the security forces. Most importantly, the operation was completed without any casualties to Lieutenant Commander Prashar’s team.
Citation Highlights His Gallantry
During the Defence Investiture Ceremony, the citation for Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar highlighted his exceptional bravery and swift action during the operation.
It described how, when a cornered terrorist attempted to break through the security cordon, he immediately assessed the gravity of the situation. Displaying immense fearlessness, he deliberately drew fire and targeted a second hidden terrorist while simultaneously alerting his teammate in time.
The citation further noted that due to his decisive tactical action, both terrorists were successfully eliminated by the troops without any casualties to his team.
For his conspicuous gallantry, exceptional tactical acumen and actions far beyond the call of duty, in keeping with the highest traditions of the service, Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar was awarded the Shaurya Chakra.
A Braveheart from the Indian Navy’s Elite MARCOS
Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar belongs to the Indian Navy’s Marine Commando Force, one of India’s most elite special forces units. MARCOS personnel are trained for some of the toughest missions, including maritime special operations, counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, reconnaissance and special warfare.
Although MARCOS is a naval special forces unit, its personnel are also deployed in land-based counter-terror and counter-insurgency roles, especially in areas where highly specialised training and joint operations are required.
The actions of Lieutenant Commander Prashar reflect the core spirit of MARCOS — courage, stealth, precision and mission-first commitment. His conduct during the 6 November 2024 operation showed not only physical bravery but also calm decision-making under direct threat.
Leadership in the Face of Extreme Danger
Counter-terror operations often unfold in seconds. A single decision can determine whether a team suffers casualties or successfully completes the mission. In such situations, leadership is not defined by rank alone, but by the ability to act decisively when lives are at stake.
Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar displayed exactly that kind of leadership. By drawing fire towards himself, he placed his own life in danger to protect his teammates. By identifying and engaging the second hidden terrorist, he prevented a potentially deadly surprise attack. By alerting his teammate in time, he ensured coordination and control in a rapidly changing combat situation.
His actions turned a dangerous encounter into a successful operation.
Shaurya Chakra: Recognition of Courage Beyond Duty
The Shaurya Chakra awarded to Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar is a proud recognition of his gallantry and devotion to duty. It also stands as a tribute to the professionalism of Indian special forces personnel who operate in some of the most challenging environments.
His story is not just about the elimination of two terrorists. It is about courage under fire, selfless action, and the ability to think clearly in the face of mortal danger.
For defence aspirants, young officers and citizens across the country, Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar’s story is an inspiration. It reminds us that the security of the nation is protected by men and women who are ready to face danger without hesitation.
A Symbol of the Finest Military Traditions
Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar’s gallant action on 6 November 2024 reflects the highest traditions of the Indian Navy and the Indian Armed Forces. His bravery ensured the success of the operation and safeguarded the lives of his team members.
In moments of extreme danger, he chose action over hesitation, courage over fear, and duty over personal safety.
His Shaurya Chakra is not just a medal; it is a symbol of honour, sacrifice and extraordinary service to the nation.
