20 February 2016: "Remembering Shaurya Chakra Awardee Martyr Captain Pawan Kumar, who laid down his life while fighting terrorists in Kashmir"

 

Captain Pawan Kumar was a courageous and dedicated Indian Army officer who laid down his life in the service of nation while fighting with terrorists in Pulwama district (Pampore) of Jammu and Kashmir on this day. He was only 23 when martyred.

 

Born on January 15, 1993 ( which is also observed as Army day) in Jind district of Haryana, he graduated from the 123 course of the National Defence Academy and was commissioned into the Army on December 14, 2013.

 

During 2016, Capt Pawan Kumar was serving with 10 Par (SF) deployed in J&K for counter insurgency operations. On 20 February 2016, 4 Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists armed with AK-47 Assault rifles and explosives attacked a CRPF convoy on the main road linking Srinagar to Jammu, killing two policemen and a civilian. The terroristss then took refuge in the government-run multi-storey “Entrepreneurship Development Institute” in Pampore. The security forces cordoned off the building in a joint operation to evacuate civilians from the building.

 

A fierce gun battle ensued thereafter with heavy exchange of fire from both sides. Leading from the front, Capt Pawan reached the top floor, firing on the door and the window of the room in which the terrorists were holed up. As he kicked the door to lob a hand grenade inside, a hidden terrorist shot him from close range. Undeterred by his grievous injuries and refusing evacuation, Capt Pawan kept firing at the terrorist and killed him. He also killed another terrorist who was aiming to fire at his men. This gallant action by Capt Pawan Kumar saved the lives of his comrades and set the stage for the elimination of remaining terrorists. He later succumbed to his injuries and was martyred, but his gallant action paved the way for the security forces to complete the operation successful.

 

Capt. Pawan Kumar was given the gallantry award, “Shaurya Chakra” on 15th Aug 2016 for his exceptional courage, fighting spirit and supreme sacrifice.

 

Captain Pawan Kumar's selfless service and unwavering commitment to his duty inspired all those around him. His actions on the battlefield were a true reflection of his courage and dedication to protecting his country. Captain Pawan Kumar's legacy will always be remembered with respect and gratitude by the nation.