Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay paid tribute to the bravery of Kirti Chakra awardee Lance Naik A. Meenakshi Sundaram by presenting him with a ₹48 lakh cheque during a heartfelt ceremony.
The event was held in Chennai and was to recognize Sundaram’s extraordinary courage during a counter‑terrorism operation in Kulgam, Jammu & Kashmir, in December 2024.
Sundaram, a native of Theni district, performed heroically in defeating a terrorist even when shot in the heart. Not only did he save lives, he was an example of the spirit of India’s armed forces. On June 8, President Droupadi Murmu awarded him the Kirti Chakra, the second highest peacetime gallantry award in the country, and he is among the country’s most decorated soldiers.
At the ceremony, CM Vijay draped a shawl over Sundaram’s shoulders as a mark of respect. He also spent time with the soldier’s family, as well as his children, talking to them. The Chief Minister’s gesture showed that he is dedicated to honouring not only the soldier but also the family that is with him right now.
The Tamil Nadu government has said this recognition reflects a broader commitment to supporting and honouring the armed forces of the state to defend the state and to support and recognize the armed forces personnel from our state. The administration, through providing financial assistance and public recognition, is hoping to inspire other generations to serve the nation with courage and dedication in the future.
The ₹48 lakh cheque is more than an acknowledgment of Sundaram’s work as a state; it’s an acknowledgment of what he did in protecting our nation from terrorism.
At last, the ceremony brought home to us the sacrifice made by India’s armed forces and why governments need to pay tribute to them. CM Vijay’s tribute to Lance Naik Sundaram not only showed individual bravery but also reinforced Tamil Nadu’s pride in its soldiers’ achievements; their stories would be the inspiration to millions of people across the country.
