2026

Lance Naik A Meenatchi Sundaram

Bio

• Native of Theni district
• Artillery Regiment, serving with 34 Rashtriya Rifles

Reason

• sustained gun shot wounds to his face and right shoulder during counter terrorist operation in Kulgam, South Kashmir, on December 19, 2024.
• Despite his injuries and severe pain, Sundaram displayed rare courage and exceptional bravery and neutralised a terrorist in an intense close quarters encounter.

Kirti Chakra in 2026

• President Droupadi Murmu presented him with the Kirti Chakra in recognition of his indomitable spirit, courage and exceptional bravery at a ceremony held in New Delhi on June 8.

Recognition by Tamil Nadu government

• Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Monday, honoured Kirti Chakra awardee Lance Naik A Meenatchi Sundaram with a cheque for Rs 48 lakh on behalf of the state government in recognition of his bravery during an anti-terror operation.

• The cheque was presented by the Tamil Nadu Ex-Servicemen Benevolent Fund at the Secretariat here. MSN