New Delhi, June 9: Major Bhargav Kalita of the Kumaon Regiment has been awarded the Shaurya Chakra, one of India’s highest peacetime gallantry honours, for displaying exceptional courage and leadership during counter-terrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir.
The award was presented by Droupadi Murmu during the Defence Investiture Ceremony-2026 (Phase-I) held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday. The ceremony was attended by Narendra Modi, Rajnath Singh and C. P. Radhakrishnan.
The gallantry award recognises Major Kalita’s operational achievements while serving with the 50th Battalion of the Rashtriya Rifles, where he has been actively involved in anti-terror operations since October 2022.
According to defence officials, Major Kalita participated in several successful operations that led to the elimination of three terrorists and the apprehension of four overground workers linked to militant networks operating in Jammu and Kashmir. His actions, authorities said, significantly contributed to maintaining security and disrupting terrorist activities in the region.
The citation accompanying the award highlights a particularly daring operation conducted on December 2, 2024. Acting on intelligence received at short notice, Major Kalita planned and led a surgical ambush targeting a wanted terrorist.
Defence spokesman Lt Col Mahendra Rawat stated that the officer carefully positioned his team to ensure complete surprise and waited for the suspect to enter the designated engagement zone. When challenged by security personnel, the terrorist reportedly opened indiscriminate fire and attempted to flee.
Major Kalita responded by directing accurate fire and manoeuvring his team to seal all possible escape routes. Maintaining pressure on the militant, he ensured continuous surveillance and suppressive firing to prevent the suspect from breaking contact.
The operation then escalated into a close-range encounter.
According to the citation, Major Kalita crawled towards the terrorist’s concealed position despite the grave danger posed by enemy fire. Displaying what military officials described as exceptional courage and tactical composure, he closed in on the terrorist and neutralised him during an intense close-combat engagement.
The slain militant was later identified as an A++ category terrorist allegedly responsible for the deaths of seven civilians and multiple attacks on security personnel.
Military officials described the operation as an example of precise planning, battlefield leadership and personal bravery under extreme risk.
Defence authorities noted that Major Kalita’s actions reflected the highest traditions of the Indian Army and demonstrated unwavering commitment to duty. His leadership during the operation ensured the success of the mission while safeguarding the lives of his team members.
Originally from Assam, Major Kalita has earned recognition within military circles for his operational effectiveness in challenging counter-insurgency environments. The Shaurya Chakra adds to a distinguished record of service in one of the country’s most sensitive security theatres.
The Shaurya Chakra is awarded for acts of valour, courageous action or self-sacrifice while not engaged in direct combat with an enemy. It is among India’s most prestigious peacetime military decorations and is often conferred on personnel who display extraordinary bravery during internal security, counter-terrorism and rescue operations.
With the honour, Major Kalita joins a distinguished list of Indian military personnel whose actions have exemplified courage and dedication in the defence of the nation.
Defence officials said the award serves as recognition not only of an individual act of bravery but also of the continued efforts of security forces operating in challenging conditions to protect civilians and maintain peace in conflict-affected regions.
