Lt Commander Suraj Prashar Gets Shaurya Chakra

Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar of the Indian Navy received the Shaurya Chakra from President Droupadi Murmu at the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2026 (Phase-I) held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on 8 June 2026. He was honoured for bravery during Operation Chuntawadi in Bandipora district, Jammu and Kashmir, on the night of 5/6 November 2024.

Shaurya Chakra

The Shaurya Chakra is India’s third-highest peacetime gallantry award. It is awarded for acts of bravery, courageous action, or devotion to duty, and it can be conferred on military personnel, civilians, and members of the armed forces in peacetime situations.

Operation Chuntawadi

Operation Chuntawadi was a joint cordon and search operation conducted in Bandipora district, Jammu and Kashmir, on 5/6 November 2024. The operation aimed to neutralise terrorist threats and involved engagement with two terrorists during the encounter.

Marine Commando Force

Lt Commander Suraj Prashar served in the Indian Navy’s Marine Commando Force, commonly known as MARCOS. MARCOS is the special forces unit of the Indian Navy and is trained for maritime special operations, reconnaissance, and counter-terrorism tasks.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Shaurya Chakra ranks below the Kirti Chakra and above the Sena, Nao Sena, and Vayu Sena Medals in India’s peacetime gallantry awards system.
• Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi hosts national award ceremonies such as the Defence Investiture Ceremony.
• Bandipora district is located in Jammu and Kashmir, a Union Territory of India.
• MARCOS was raised in 1987 as the Indian Navy’s special operations force.

Defence Investiture Ceremony

The Defence Investiture Ceremony is held to present gallantry awards and distinguished service decorations to personnel of the Indian Armed Forces. The 2026 Phase-I ceremony was attended by President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.