The recent Defence Investiture Ceremony 2026 (Phase-I) showcased the extraordinary achievements of several warriors from the Indian Army’s Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), who were adorned with prestigious gallantry awards. Held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the ceremony underscored the bravery, tactical excellence, and unwavering commitment displayed by these soldiers in high-stakes environments, reflecting their dedication to safeguarding the nation.
President Droupadi Murmu presided over the ceremony, bestowing accolades on the brave men who took part in perilous counter-terror and counter-insurgency operations across regions such as Jammu & Kashmir and the Northeast. The iconic maroon beret worn by these soldiers symbolizes their elite status and their ability to operate in silence and secrecy, often under extreme duress.
Among the recipients were officers, Junior Commissioned Officers, and soldiers whose courageous actions ranged from close-quarter combat with terrorists to critical hostage rescues and strategic reconnaissance operations.
Notable Awardees:
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Naib Subedar Doleshwar Subba, 2 PARA (SF) – Awarded the Kirti Chakra for his remarkable bravery during a perilous search operation in Kishtwar, Jammu & Kashmir, on April 11, 2025. Faced with armed terrorists attempting to evade capture, Subba demonstrated exceptional leadership by repositioning his team under enemy fire and successfully engaging the terrorists, neutralizing one at close range.
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Captain Lalrinawma Sailo, 4 PARA (SF) – Also a Kirti Chakra recipient, Sailo showcased tactical brilliance amid a counter-terror operation in Srinagar. Utilizing advanced surveillance technology, he identified a high-profile terrorist and bravely engaged in combat despite sustaining heavy enemy fire, neutralizing the threat.
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Major Ashish Kumar, 7 PARA (SF) – Honored with the Shaurya Chakra for his decisive role during a November 2024 operation in Anantnag, Jammu & Kashmir, Kumar coordinated with sniper teams to eliminate two terrorists, showcasing his tactical acumen under pressure.
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Major Leishangthem Deepak Singh, 11 PARA (SF) – Awarded for leading a successful hostage rescue mission in Arunachal Pradesh. Singh’s courageous actions included shielding a civilian hostage during a firefight, exemplifying his commitment to protecting innocent lives.
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Major Shivkant Yadav, 5 PARA (SF) – Recognized for his exceptional planning during a complex operation in hostile jungle conditions, Yadav’s leadership led to the neutralization of a top insurgent commander while navigating through dangerous terrain.
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Lieutenant Colonel Ghatage Aditya Shrikumar, 21 PARA (SF) – Awarded the Shaurya Chakra for his strategic and meticulous planning of a long-term operation against insurgents, which successfully disrupted their activities through intensive intelligence gathering.
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Captain Yogendra Singh Thakur, PARA (SF) – Celebrated for his bravery during a blind encounter in Jammu & Kashmir, Thakur’s calm under fire allowed him to engage effectively with the enemy despite zero visibility conditions.
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Subedar Shamsher Singh, 4 PARA (SF) – Honored for his tactical discipline during a close-combat operation, Singh’s leadership allowed his team to maneuver effectively and eliminate terrorist threats.
- Lance Naik Rahul Singh, 4 PARA (SF) – Promoted to Naik, he displayed notable stealth and bravery during a search-and-destroy mission, successfully neutralizing an enemy combatant before they could initiate defensive measures.
The Parachute Regiment Special Forces stands as a testament to India’s elite warriors, trained for high-risk missions involving counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, special reconnaissance, and surgical strikes. The gallantry awards presented are not just personal accolades but reflect the collective valor and dedication of all soldiers who serve quietly on the frontlines.
From the dense forests of Kishtwar to the challenging terrains of the Northeast, these exemplary acts of courage affirm that true bravery lies not in the absence of fear, but in the resolve to confront it head-on. Their stories of heroism will resonate, inspiring future generations of soldiers and defense aspirants nationwide.
