Remembering Sergeant Surendra Kumar’s Sacrifice in Operation Sindoor
RAJASTHAN, 13, August, 2025: In a heartfelt gesture, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Sarita Singh, visited Mehradasi village in Rajasthan’s Jhunjhunu district to pay respects to Sergeant Surendra Kumar, an Indian Air Force (IAF) hero who died in service. The visit highlighted the IAF’s commitment to honoring its brave personnel who make the ultimate sacrifice for the nation.
Sergeant Kumar, a medical wing member with 14 years of service at 39 Wing in Udhampur, lost his life on May 10, 2025, during Operation Sindoor. The mission targeted terrorist hideouts along the India-Pakistan border. Kumar was killed while supporting troops in the RS Pura sector under heavy cross-border fire, as confirmed by Army Headquarters to his family. His sacrifice reflects the IAF’s vital role in challenging operations, as noted in recent Press Information Bureau reports.
During the visit, the Air Chief Marshal and Mrs. Singh met Kumar’s family, including his mother, Mrs. Nanu Devi, his wife, Mrs. Seema, and their children, Vritika and Daksh. The family, dressed in traditional Rajasthani clothing, welcomed the IAF chief with a blend of pride and sorrow. Images from the event captured the Air Chief Marshal saluting a garlanded portrait of Kumar, surrounded by IAF personnel and local villagers.
Jhunjhunu, a district with a strong military heritage, is home to 3,552 active air warriors and 21,700 retired service members, showcasing its significant contribution to India’s defense. The region’s cultural charm, particularly the Mandawa area, has also made it a favored backdrop for Bollywood films like Ae Dil Hai Mushkil and Bajrangi Bhaijaan, depicting diverse settings.
Sergeant Kumar’s dedication to service was inspired by his late father, a former CRPF member, who instilled values of duty and bravery in him. His legacy endures through his family and the IAF’s ongoing commitment to its personnel.
This visit serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by India’s armed forces and the deep-rooted warrior spirit of Jhunjhunu.