Captain Yogender Singh Thakur, serving in the Indian Army’s prestigious 6th Battalion of the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), has been honored with the Shaurya Chakra, the nation’s third-highest peacetime gallantry award. This recognition, announced by President Droupadi Murmu during the 77th Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2026, highlights his extraordinary courage during a crucial counter-terrorism operation in Jammu and Kashmir, reinforcing the importance of his role in national security amidst challenging circumstances.
Born in the humble surroundings of Gram Panchayat Dart Bagla in Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh, Captain Thakur’s journey is a testament to the values ingrained in individuals from India’s rural communities. His father, Anil Thakur, was a school principal, and his mother, Beena Devi, is a homemaker. He completed his education at Saraswati Vidya Mandir in Balkarupi, Jogindernagar, where his teachers, including manager Ashwani Sood and principal Naveen Sharma, have expressed pride in his achievements, underscoring how he has elevated the school’s profile and brought honor to his community and state.
Captain Thakur’s military career has been marked by his dedication to elite special operations. Assigned to 6 PARA (SF), renowned for airborne assaults and specialized warfare, he has consistently exhibited outstanding tactical abilities in demanding circumstances. His role includes extensive training and participation in counter-insurgency operations, particularly in sensitive regions like Jammu and Kashmir.
The operation for which he earned the Shaurya Chakra took place in July 2025 in the Basantgarh sector of Udhampur district, Jammu and Kashmir. On July 21, intelligence reports indicated that terrorists from Jaish-e-Mohammed were planning a large-scale attack. Tasked with leading a mission, Captain Thakur strategically positioned his unit in a challenging and concealed location.
On July 26, surveillance units detected unusual activity about one kilometer away. Captain Thakur adeptly modified the ambush setup to maintain observation of the suspects. At 0900 hours, as the enemy fighters were spotted at a distance of approximately 300 meters, he skillfully led his unit through thick fog. When the adversaries opened fire, he exhibited calm and tactical precision, maneuvering to encircle the threats. By advancing under direct fire and engaging in close combat from a mere 30 meters, he successfully eliminated a pivotal Jaish-e-Mohammed operative, significantly mitigating a threat to the region’s stability.
This operation not only demonstrated his personal courage but also showcased his ability to lead under severe pressure, ensuring mission success while prioritizing the safety of non-combatants. The Shaurya Chakra recognizes acts of bravery against enemies in peacetime, affirming Captain Thakur’s relentless determination and adept operational capabilities. He is one of 13 recipients of this honor in 2026, representing various special forces units. The award ceremony integrated into Republic Day events serves to highlight the essential roles military personnel play in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.
The announcement of Captain Thakur’s award has garnered widespread admiration across his hometown, Jogindernagar, the surrounding areas, and the entire nation. Community members have gathered at his family’s residence to celebrate, creating a festive atmosphere filled with pride. His ascent from modest beginnings to notable distinction through his dedication to national service stands as an inspiring example for many, encouraging youth to pursue careers in defense and embody the values of bravery and patriotism.
In a landscape marked by ongoing security challenges, Captain Yogender Singh Thakur’s narrative exemplifies the unwavering commitment of India’s armed forces. His achievements underscore the vital contributions of specialized military units in maintaining peace and order.
