Shimla, August 15 – On the 79th Independence Day, the quiet hills of Jubbal roared with pride as Flying Lieutenant Arshveer Singh Thakur of the Indian Air Force bagged the gallantry award,Vir Chakra for his heroics in Operation Sindoor.
Thakur was part of the daring IAF team that struck deep into enemy territory, destroying terror hubs in Bahawalpur and Muridke, dealing a decisive blow to militants behind the Pahalgam massacre.
President Droupadi Murmu honoured Indian Air Force personnel for their courage and service.
The awards included 4 Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medals, 5 Uttam Yudh Seva Medals, 9 Vir Chakras, 1 Shaurya Chakra, 13 Yudh Seva Medals, 26 Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry), and 167 Mentions-in-Despatches—most for Operation Sindoor.
The IAF said it was proud of its air warriors, who always serve with sincerity and commitment, and vowed to “always touch the sky with glory.”
Alongside him, four Army soldiers and two BSF men also earned the Vir Chakra. The day’s roll of honor included six Kirti Chakras—four posthumous—and 33 Shaurya Chakras for acts of grit in counter-terror and Naxal operations.
Among them were Major Manjit (Punjab Regt/RR), Naik Dilwar Khan (posthumous), Major Bhargav Kalita (Kumaon Regt), Deputy Commandant Vikrant Kumar (CRPF), Inspector Jeffrey Hmingchullo (CRPF), and IAF’s Wing Commander Vernon Desmond Keane and Squadron Leader Deepak Kumar.
From the valleys of Himachal to the frontlines in J&K and the heart of Naxal belts, these warriors proved freedom isn’t just celebrated—it’s defended with blood, sweat, and fearless hearts.
#IndiaAt79 #GallantryAwards #VirChakra #OperationSindoor #JaiHind
