As Bombs Fell, Their Courage Rose: Stories Of 6 Operation Sindoor Heroes Decorated With Vir Chakra

The Government of India has released an official gazette notification honouring six defence personnel who took part in the high-stakes Operation Sindoor. The citations that accompany the gallantry awards

conferred on the members of the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force, provide an insight into the remarkable courage displayed by these officers in face of untold challenges.Below are the six heroes whose fearlessness and leadership earned them the Vir Chakra for their pivotal roles in Operation Sindoor:Colonel Koshank Lamba, 302 Medium Regiment (Indian Army): Recognised for "flawless leadership" and "exceptional bravery", Col Lamba executed the "first ever air mobilisation of a specialised equipment battery" at short notice. His swift and covert mobilisation of crucial assets ensured the success of the operation, the citation notes.Lieutenant Colonel Sushil Bisht, 1988 (Independent) Medium Battery (Indian Army): As the Officer Commanding, Lt Col Bisht led his unit with "exceptional courage, leadership and operational brilliance". His team achieved "resounding success by causing complete destruction of terrorist camps".Group Captain Ranjeet Singh Sidhu, Flying (Pilot) (Indian Air Force): Commanding a squadron entrusted with high-risk strike missions, Gp Capt Sidhu demonstrated "exceptional gallantry and courage" by delivering precise attacks over predetermined targets. His operational excellence ensured that all mission objectives were achieved flawlessly under extreme pressure.Group Captain Animesh Patni, Flying (Pilot) (Indian Air Force): Leading a Surface to Air Missile (SAM) squadron from a forward airbase, Gp Capt Patni displayed "exceptional leadership". Under his command, the unit delivered a "decisive blow to the capabilities of adversaries", inflicting substantial losses without sustaining any damage. His strategic acumen proved vital to the mission's success.Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik, Flying (Pilot) (Indian Air Force): As Deputy Mission Leader, Sqn Ldr Malik spearheaded an unescorted midnight strike against targets "heavily fortified by latest and highly potent air defence weapon systems". Executing a low-level, dark-night approach with razor-sharp precision, he completed the mission within a "minuscule" launch window, evading advanced radar systems and long-range missiles - a feat of sheer audacity and skill.