Tamil Nadu Government Awards ₹48 Lakh to Kirti Chakra Winner Meenatchi Sundaram

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Monday honoured Kirti Chakra awardee Lance Naik A Meenatchi Sundaram with a ₹48 lakh cheque in recognition of his exceptional bravery during a counter-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir.

The cheque was presented on behalf of the state government through the Tamil Nadu Ex-Servicemen Benevolent Fund at the Secretariat in Chennai. The event was attended by family members of the awardee and senior government officials.

Meenatchi Sundaram, a native of Theni district , serves in the Regiment of Artillery and is attached to the 34 Rashtriya Rifles . He sustained gunshot wounds to his face and right shoulder during a counter-terror operation in Kulgam, South Kashmir, on December 19, 2024 .

Despite being critically injured and in severe pain, he continued engaging terrorists in close combat and successfully neutralised a terrorist , demonstrating extraordinary courage, presence of mind and duty commitment .

Lance Naik Meenatchi Sundaram is an Indian Army soldier known for his role in high-risk counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir . During the Kulgam encounter, he was part of an inner cordon security team and played a decisive role in preventing terrorist escape despite sustaining life-threatening injuries. His actions have been widely recognised within defence circles for resilience under fire and operational effectiveness .

For his bravery, he was conferred the Kirti Chakra , India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award , by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on June 8, 2026. The citation highlighted his indomitable spirit, fearless conduct and exceptional battlefield performance .

Officials said the Tamil Nadu government’s gesture reflects its continued commitment to honouring armed forces personnel who display outstanding valour and sacrifice in service of the nation .

The recognition also underlines the state’s support for wounded soldiers and their families , acknowledging their contribution to national security.