Government Reveals Names of Six Personnel Killed During Operation Sindoor, Honours Their Sacrifice at National War Memorial

The Government of India has, for the first time, publicly disclosed the identities of six military personnel who lost their lives during Operation Sindoor, paying tribute to their sacrifice by adding their names to the National War Memorial in New Delhi. The move formally recognises the soldiers and airman who died while participating in the military operation launched in response to the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam in May 2025.

The six personnel honoured include Rifleman Sunil Kumar of the Indian Army, Sergeant Surendra Kumar of the Indian Air Force, and four other members of the armed forces who were killed while carrying out operational duties during the mission. Their names have now been engraved on granite plaques at the National War Memorial, ensuring that their contribution to the nation is permanently commemorated.

According to official records, the names have also been inscribed on granite bricks at the memorial’s Tyag Chakra, a section dedicated to honouring members of the armed forces who have laid down their lives in the line of duty since India’s Independence. The memorial serves as a lasting tribute to military personnel who made the supreme sacrifice while protecting the country’s sovereignty.

Operation Sindoor was launched following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in which 26 civilians were killed. In response, the Indian armed forces carried out precision strikes on terrorist infrastructure located across the border in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The operation involved coordinated action by the Indian Army, the Indian Air Force and other military units, making it one of the country’s most significant recent counter-terror operations.

Among those honoured, Rifleman Sunil Kumar was posthumously awarded the Vir Chakra for displaying exceptional courage during the operation, while Sergeant Surendra Kumar received the Vayu Medal in recognition of his distinguished service.

Although details of Operation Sindoor had been released earlier, the identities of the personnel who died during the mission had remained undisclosed until now. Officials said the decision to make the names public reflects the government’s commitment to acknowledging the bravery and sacrifice of the armed forces.