Major Bhargav Kalita of the Kumaon Regiment (50th Battalion), the Rashtriya Rifles, has been honored with the Shaurya Chakra, one of India’s prestigious peacetime gallantry awards, for his remarkable courage and exceptional leadership in successful counter-terrorism operations. President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Gallantry Awards during the Defence Investiture Ceremony-2026 (Phase-I) at Rashtrapati Bhavan, with Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in attendance.
Since October 2022, Major Kalita has actively engaged in numerous effective operations in Jammu and Kashmir, leading to the elimination of three notorious terrorists and the capture of four hardcore overground workers. Hailing from Assam, Major Kalita’s unwavering dedication to duty and operational prowess has played a crucial role in upholding peace and security in the region, as stated by Defence spokesman Lt Col Mahendra Rawat.
In a meticulously planned ambush operation on December 2, 2024, Major Kalita, acting on short-notice intelligence, demonstrated exceptional fieldcraft and tactical skills by ambushing a hardcore terrorist with precision. Despite facing indiscriminate fire and escape attempts by the terrorist, Major Kalita maintained composure, directing his team effectively to ensure the terrorist’s capture. With remarkable bravery and disregard for personal safety, he engaged in close combat, ultimately neutralizing the terrorist.
