In a poignant and respectful gesture honouring extraordinary courage, the Honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru. S. Joseph Vijay, on Monday met Lance Naik A. Meenatchi Sundaram, recipient of the Kirti Chakra — India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award — and his family members at the Secretariat here. The Chief Minister presented the decorated soldier with a cheque of ₹48 lakh on behalf of the Government of Tamil Nadu in recognition of his exemplary bravery and service to the nation.
Lance Naik A. Meenatchi Sundaram, a native of Kamayagoundanpatti village in Theni district, serves with the 34 Rashtriya Rifles (attached to the Regiment of Artillery). He was conferred the Kirti Chakra for his conspicuous gallantry during a counter-terrorism operation in Kulgam district, Jammu and Kashmir, in December 2024.
During the intense firefight, Lance Naik Meenatchi Sundaram sustained grievous gunshot wounds to his face and shoulder. Despite the severe injuries, excruciating pain and life-threatening circumstances, the soldier displayed exceptional presence of mind, raw courage and outstanding marksmanship. Engaging the terrorist in close-quarter combat, he successfully neutralised a hardcore terrorist, protected his comrades and contributed decisively to the success of the operation.
In recognition of this act of valour, the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, presented him the Kirti Chakra on June 8, 2026, during the Defence Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. His return to his hometown had earlier been celebrated with immense pride by the local community.
The meeting at the Secretariat was marked by warmth and dignity. The Chief Minister felicitated Lance Naik Meenatchi Sundaram in the presence of his family members. He interacted affectionately with the awardee’s young child, adding a deeply human and heartwarming dimension to the formal ceremony. The presentation of the ₹48 lakh cheque symbolises the Tamil Nadu government’s profound appreciation for the sacrifices and bravery of armed forces personnel hailing from the state.
The gesture reaffirms the state’s unwavering commitment to honouring its defence heroes and supporting their families. It reflects the deep respect and gratitude that Tamil Nadu extends to all personnel serving in the Indian Armed Forces who uphold the nation’s security with distinction and selflessness.
This felicitation has been widely welcomed as a fitting tribute to Lance Naik A. Meenatchi Sundaram’s indomitable spirit and a reaffirmation of the enduring bond between the people of Tamil Nadu and their brave soldiers.
