From the quiet village of Gonth in Shimla’s Kupvi area, Rifleman Kulbushan Manta carried a childhood dream — to join the Army and serve the nation. Born in 1996 to Shri Pratap and Smt. Durma Devi and raised alongside his three sisters, Rekha, Kiran, and Rajni, he grew up in a home rooted in values of courage and service. At just 18, his dream took shape when he joined the Indian Army in 2014, becoming part of the 18th Battalion, Jammu & Kashmir Rifles, a regiment known for its valor and history.

Over the years, he grew into a tough, disciplined soldier. He married Smt. Neetu, and the couple welcomed a son, yet his devotion to the uniform remained unwavering. By 2022, he was serving with the 52 Rashtriya Rifles in Jammu & Kashmir, posted in the volatile Baramulla district—a region where danger was constant and insurgent threats were real.

The Baramulla Operation – 26/27 October 2022

Acting on intelligence of terrorists hiding in Washran village, a joint operation by the Army and J&K Police was launched. Rifleman Manta, leading from the front, spotted two terrorists attempting to flee. In a daring hand-to-hand combat, he overpowered one terrorist and captured him alive. The second terrorist, panicked, opened indiscriminate fire, injuring Rifleman Manta in the leg.

Despite the grievous wound, he continued his pursuit, engaging the terrorist with heavy fire and protecting his team from harm. His bravery ensured the success of the mission and saved lives. Evacuated to Srinagar after initial treatment in Baramulla, he succumbed to his injuries on 27 October 2022, at the age of just 26.

A Nation’s Salute

For his exceptional courage and selfless devotion to duty, Rifleman Kulbushan Manta was awarded the Shaurya Chakra posthumously on 15 August 2023. He leaves behind his parents, wife, young son, and three sisters—and an enduring legacy of heroism.

In every tricolor that flutters against the Himalayan winds, his sacrifice is remembered—a son of the soil who gave his today for our tomorrow.