- By Sarah Khan
A solemn award ceremony was held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi where President Droupadi Murmu, the supreme commander of the armed forces, posthumously awarded the Kirti Chakra to Havildar Abdul Majeed.
The Kirti Chakra, which means “wheel of glory”, is India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award given for valour, self-sacrifice, or courageous action in Indian military decoration. It may be awarded to military personnel as well as civilians, including posthumous awards.
In November 2023, during a fierce encounter in Rajouri, Jammu & Kashmir, Havildar Abdul Majeed was honored for his courage. He displayed exceptional bravery and leadership in the line of duty while protecting his team members during the intense firefight. Though he ensured the survival and safety of his comrades in this process, he tragically sacrificed his life.
Havildar Abdul Majid belonged to Ajote village of the Poonch district in J&K. He had four sisters and a brother as his siblings. Growing up in a family where many members from his family served in the Armed Forces, Abdul Majid too developed an inclination to serve in the army.
Family members of Havildar Majeed, senior military officials, and other dignitaries appeared in the ceremony. President Murmu expressed her condolences deeply to the family, paying tribute to the lost hero’s dedication and valor.
