New Delhi: Kirti Chakra awardee Major Arshdeep Singh Gill has said that receiving one of India’s highest peacetime gallantry honours has strengthened his resolve to serve the nation with greater dedication and responsibility. The decorated Army officer described the recognition as both an honour and a reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces in protecting the country’s security.
Major Gill, who serves with the Indian Army’s Armoured Corps and is attached to the 1 Assam Rifles, was recently conferred the prestigious Kirti Chakra by President Droupadi Murmu during the Defence Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The award recognizes acts of exceptional courage, leadership, and devotion to duty under challenging circumstances.
Speaking after receiving the honour, Major Gill said the recognition would inspire him to continue serving the nation with unwavering commitment. He emphasized that the award belongs not only to him but also to the soldiers and colleagues who stood beside him during difficult operational assignments.
The gallantry award was conferred for Major Gill’s extraordinary bravery during a high-risk counter-insurgency operation in Manipur. During the nearly 84-hour-long mission, he led his team in hostile conditions and successfully carried out operations against insurgent elements while ensuring the safety of his personnel and the successful completion of the mission.
Defence officials have praised Major Gill’s leadership, courage, and tactical skills during the operation. His actions have been cited as an example of the professionalism and determination displayed by Indian armed forces personnel while operating in some of the country’s most challenging security environments.
A native of Mohali in Punjab, Major Gill has become a source of pride for his hometown and the wider defence community. Family members, friends, and well-wishers have celebrated the achievement, describing it as recognition of years of hard work, discipline, and selfless service to the nation.
Major Gill’s military journey reflects a strong commitment to national service. A first-generation Army officer, he was commissioned into the Indian Army in 2016 after graduating from the Indian Military Academy. Before joining the armed forces, he also represented Punjab in hockey at the national level, demonstrating excellence both on and off the field.
The Kirti Chakra is India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award and is presented to military personnel and civilians for displaying extraordinary courage away from the battlefield. Major Gill’s recognition highlights the bravery and sacrifice of security personnel who continue to safeguard the nation’s interests in difficult operational environments.
As he takes forward his military career, Major Gill has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening operational readiness and contributing to national security. His story continues to inspire young Indians who aspire to serve the country through the armed forces and other public service roles.
