Lance Naik Naresh Kumar SC

Lance Naik Naresh Kumar was born in the village of Pasikandi in Hoshiarpur district of Punjab, to Shri Bishamber Singh and Smt. Kamla Devi. Raised in a humble and disciplined family, he imbibed values of sincerity, courage, and service to the nation from an early age. After completing his school education, he was inspired by the legacy of the Indian Armed Forces and decided to pursue a life dedicated to the defence of the country. With strong determination, he joined the Army at a young age. He was recruited into the 2 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles Battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles Regiment—an infantry regiment renowned for its valour, rich traditions, and numerous battle honours. During his military service, L/Nk Naresh Kumar proved himself to be a dedicated and dependable soldier, admired by his comrades for his discipline, loyalty, and sense of duty. After serving in the Army for a few years, he entered a new chapter of life by marrying Ms. Kavita, who became his source of strength and support. 

Baramulla Operation (J&K): 15 Jul 1993

In 1993, Lance Naik Naresh Kumar’s unit, the 2nd Battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles (2 JAK Rif), was deployed in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir. At that time, the region was gripped by heightened insurgency, with a large number of militants operating in the area. The unit was tasked with maintaining security and containing militant activity, which demanded a constant state of alertness. The soldiers were often called upon to undertake operations at short notice, facing both the harsh terrain and a determined enemy. On 15 July 1993, during an operation in Baramulla district, Lance Naik Naresh Kumar was part of a team that had laid a cordon to intercept a group of heavily armed militants. As the troops closed in, a group of seven to eight militants attempted to break the cordon and escape towards the surrounding hills. Lance Naik Naresh Kumar immediately spotted the movement and, with presence of mind, engaged them. Despite being challenged, the militants continued their attempt to flee.

Reacting swiftly, Lance Naik Naresh Kumar fired at the leading militant, inflicting fatal injuries. Together with Havildar Lekh Raj, he moved decisively to block the escape route, displaying remarkable coordination and courage under fire. Showing exceptional bravery, he closed in on another militant and neutralized him at close range, thereby thwarting the enemy’s breakout attempt. In the midst of the encounter, while attempting to assist an injured militant and prevent further danger, Lance Naik Naresh Kumar was suddenly hit by hostile fire from another militant concealed nearby. Gravely wounded, he collapsed on the spot. Despite the best efforts of his comrades, he succumbed to his injuries a few minutes later, laying down his life in the line of duty. For his cold courage, unfaltering leadership, and supreme sacrifice, Lance Naik Naresh Kumar was awarded the Shaurya Chakra (Posthumous), one of India’s highest peacetime gallantry awards. His actions not only prevented the militants from breaking through but also inspired his comrades to continue the fight with greater resolve. 

Lance Naik Naresh Kumar is survived by his wife, Smt. Kavita Devi.

The citation for "Shaurya  Chakra" awarded to him reads:

On 15 July 1993, while on duty in the Kiatsan area of Baramulla district in Jammu and Kashmir, Lance Naik Naresh Kumar observed a group of seven to eight militants attempting to break the cordon and escape towards the hills. Despite being challenged, the militants did not stop. Lance Naik Naresh Kumar fired at the first militant, who later succumbed to his injuries. He along with Havildar Lekh Raj successfully blocked the escape route of the militants and quickly charged at a militant and shot another dead. While trying to assist an injured militant, Lance Naik Naresh was hit by another militant. He collapsed and succumbed to his injuries a few minutes later.