Jawalamukhi, Himachal Pradesh.
Ritesh Sharma, a brave soldier from Upper Ghalour village in the Jawalamukhi region, will be honoured with the President’s Gallantry Award for displaying exceptional courage and bravery during counter-terrorism operations in Kashmir. The prestigious honour is being conferred in recognition of his significant role and courageous contribution to anti-terror operations in the Kashmir Valley.
Ritesh Sharma will be honoured on September 1 at an investiture ceremony to be held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is expected to present him with the President’s Gallantry Award. Following the announcement, an atmosphere of joy and pride has spread among his family, residents of his native village Upper Ghalour and the entire Jawalamukhi region.
Ritesh Sharma’s father, former Subedar Om Prakash Sharma, said that his son was continuously deployed in the Kashmir Valley for five years, from 2017 to 2022. During this period, he played an active and important role in operations conducted against terrorism.
According to his father, Ritesh Sharma participated in five major operations during his five-year tenure in Kashmir. He displayed exceptional courage and bravery while confronting terrorists during these missions. Despite difficult circumstances, he carried out his duties with complete dedication, discipline and a strong sense of responsibility.
Counter-terrorism operations in the Kashmir Valley have always been challenging for security forces. Personnel often have to operate in difficult mountainous terrain, adverse weather conditions and under constant security threats. Such situations require courage, composure, discipline and the ability to make quick decisions.
Ritesh Sharma also faced these challenges during his deployment. While serving in the Kashmir Valley for five years, he took part in several important operations against terrorists. The bravery he displayed during these missions is now being recognised through the President’s Gallantry Award.
Former Subedar Om Prakash Sharma expressed immense pride over his son’s achievement. He said that Ritesh had always placed his duty first and fulfilled his responsibilities with a strong sense of service to the nation. The honour is a deeply proud and memorable moment for the entire family.
The news of Ritesh Sharma’s achievement has also brought celebrations to Upper Ghalour village. Local residents and acquaintances have congratulated the family. People said that through his courage and dedication to duty, Ritesh Sharma has brought pride not only to his family but also to the Jawalamukhi region and the entire state of Himachal Pradesh.
His achievement is also being seen as an inspiration for young people who dream of serving the country by joining the armed forces and security services. His courage and commitment to duty serve as an example for aspiring youth.
The President’s Gallantry Award is an important recognition of the courage and contribution of personnel involved in safeguarding the country and combating terrorism. For Ritesh Sharma, the award is not only recognition of his courageous actions but also an honour for his dedication and service to the nation.
The investiture ceremony in New Delhi on September 1 will be a special occasion for Ritesh Sharma and his family. The honour will not only recognise his personal bravery but will also be a proud moment for the entire state of Himachal Pradesh.
