Major Wins India's 2nd-Highest Peace Award After 84-Hr Mission

Major Arshdeep Singh Gill stood at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi as President Droupadi Murmu pinned the Kirti Chakra to his chest, recognizing courage that kept every soldier under his command safe during one of the most demanding operations of his career.

The 2014 civil engineering graduate from Chandigarh University led his team through nearly 84 hours of intense counter-insurgency operations in Manipur in May 2025. Serving with the Armoured Corps while attached to 1 Assam Rifles, the Mohali native navigated difficult terrain and adverse conditions while facing armed militants.

His leadership during the prolonged operation resulted in a flawless mission completion. Zero casualties marked the end of those three and a half days, a testament to both his tactical expertise and unwavering commitment to his troops' safety.

Even during his university days, Gill showed a distinct passion for national service. That dedication led him from the engineering classroom to one of India's most sensitive border regions, where decisive action and calm under pressure saved lives.

The recognition extends beyond one soldier's bravery. Chandigarh University's NCC Wing has commissioned 55 students as officers across the Army, Navy, and Air Force, creating a pipeline of trained leaders ready to serve.

Why This Inspires

Major Gill's journey from civil engineering student to decorated military officer shows how education and service can merge into extraordinary purpose. His success validates the idea that universities can nurture both academic excellence and deep-rooted patriotism.

The university's commitment extends to military families too. Over 14 years, 5,723 students from defense families have received scholarships totaling over Rs 6 Crore through programs like the Armed Forces Educational Welfare Scheme and the Shaheed Captain Vikram Batra Scholarship.

These initiatives provide fee concessions for war widows, disabled defense personnel, and families of serving and retired military members. The support ensures that those who protect the nation never have to choose between service and their children's education.

Major Gill's story reminds us that heroism often starts with a choice made years before the critical moment. His university years planted seeds that bloomed into life-saving leadership when it mattered most, proving that investing in youth who value service creates the protectors our nation needs.