Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar, an officer of the Indian Navy’s elite Marine Commando Force (MARCOS), has been awarded the Shaurya Chakra — India’s third-highest peacetime gallantry award — for his exceptional courage, quick thinking, and leadership during a high-risk joint counter-terrorism operation in Jammu and Kashmir.
President Droupadi Murmu presented the award to Lt Cdr Prashar at the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2026 (Phase-1) held in New Delhi on June 8, 2026. The honour recognises his heroic actions on the night of November 5-6, 2024, when he played a decisive role in neutralising two heavily armed terrorists without any casualties to the security forces.
The High-Stakes Operation
Security forces, including MARCOS commandos and the Indian Army, launched a joint cordon and search operation in a sensitive area of Bandipora, Kashmir (reported as part of Operation Chuntawadi). The mission aimed to eliminate terrorist threats in the region.
During the operation, one of the cornered terrorists made a desperate attempt to break through the security cordon. In such intense situations, an escaping militant can inflict sudden casualties or derail the entire mission.
Lt Cdr Suraj Prashar demonstrated outstanding presence of mind and fearlessness. He deliberately drew the terrorist’s fire towards himself, exposing his own position to protect his teammates and keep the operation under control.
While under direct enemy fire, he simultaneously spotted a second hidden terrorist preparing to launch an attack on the team. With remarkable tactical acumen and composure under extreme pressure, he engaged the threat and alerted his teammate in time. This coordinated response led to the successful neutralisation of both terrorists.
The operation ended as a complete success, with no losses to the Indian security forces — a testament to Lt Cdr Prashar’s professionalism and bravery.
Official Citation and Recognition
The citation for the Shaurya Chakra highlighted Lt Cdr Prashar’s “conspicuous gallantry, exceptional tactical acumen, and actions far beyond the call of duty.” It specifically praised his selfless act of drawing enemy fire to safeguard his team while eliminating the additional threat.
About MARCOS and Lt Cdr Suraj Prashar
MARCOS, also known as the Marine Commandos, is one of India’s most formidable special forces units. Trained rigorously for maritime special operations, counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, and direct action missions, MARCOS personnel often support land-based counter-insurgency operations in challenging terrains like Jammu and Kashmir.
Lt Cdr Prashar’s conduct reflects the core MARCOS values of stealth, precision, courage, and unwavering commitment to the mission. His leadership turned a dangerous encounter into a textbook example of special forces effectiveness.
Importance of the Shaurya Chakra
The Shaurya Chakra is awarded for acts of valour, courageous action, or self-sacrifice during peacetime. This award to Lt Cdr Prashar is part of a series of gallantry honours that recognise the sacrifices and dedication of India’s armed forces in protecting the nation from terrorism.
Stories like that of Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar serve as powerful inspiration for defence aspirants and remind citizens of the silent, courageous work carried out by India’s special forces in the most difficult conditions.
India salutes the bravery of Lt Cdr Suraj Prashar and all personnel of the armed forces who risk their lives daily in the line of duty.
Jai Hind!
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