In a significant milestone for the Indian Army and the Agnipath recruitment scheme, Agniveer Kulbir Singh of the 7th Sikh Light Infantry received the prestigious Sena Medal (Gallantry) for his remarkable bravery in thwarting a terrorist infiltration attempt along the Line of Control (LoC). This recognition marks Kulbir Singh as the first Agniveer to be awarded a gallantry medal, underscoring the operational effectiveness of the Agnipath initiative.
The honour was presented during the Army Day Investiture Ceremony held in Jaipur, coinciding with the eve of the 78th Army Day celebrations. General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of the Army Staff, conferred the medal, acknowledging Kulbir Singh’s exceptional courage, quick thinking, and decisive action in a high-risk environment.
The incident leading to this recognition occurred in January 2025 when Kulbir Singh was stationed at a forward Indian Army post along the LoC. During his deployment, a group of terrorists attempted to infiltrate Indian territory under challenging terrain and low visibility conditions. Exhibiting remarkable vigilance and bravery, Kulbir Singh swiftly engaged the infiltrators with his Light Machine Gun (LMG). His precise and sustained fire compelled the terrorists to abandon their infiltration attempt and retreat across the border, effectively averting a potential security breach.
Kulbir Singh’s timely intervention not only safeguarded his post but also exemplified the Indian Army’s combat readiness and professional excellence, particularly under extreme pressure.
The Army Day Investiture Ceremony took place on January 15, 2026, in Jaipur, where a total of ten soldiers were awarded the Sena Medal (Gallantry) for their acts of courage. Additionally, numerous Army units received accolades, including 26 units recognized for their distinguished performance during Operation Sindoor.
Agniveer Kulbir Singh’s achievement is especially significant as 2026 marks the four-year anniversary of the Agnipath scheme, which was launched in 2022. Under this initiative, 25% of Agniveers will be selected for permanent roles as regular soldiers based on their merit, discipline, and performance. The remaining 75% will transition to civilian life, benefiting from reservations and employment opportunities in police forces, paramilitary organizations, and defense-related industries.
This gallantry award significantly boosts confidence in the Agnipath model, demonstrating that Agniveers are fully equipped to undertake frontline combat duties with professionalism and valor. The awarding of a gallantry medal to an Agniveer is perceived as a historic and symbolic moment, reinforcing the Indian Army’s commitment to merit, courage, and operational excellence, regardless of the recruitment process.
Agniveer Kulbir Singh’s act of bravery serves as an inspiration for young aspirants throughout the nation, illustrating the enduring spirit of valor that defines the Indian Army in defending the country’s borders.
