PVC Awardee Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar visits Paragon School – 71

Mohali, September 30, 2024: A Kargil war hero, and Param Veer Chakra (PVC) awardee, Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar of The 13 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles Regiment, JAK RIF inaugurated a new library at Paragon Sr. Secondary School in Sector 71, Mohali.  

Kulwant Kaur Shergill, President, Paragon School; Iqbal Shergill, Director, Paragon Senior Secondary School; Jitender Shergill; Principal Jasmeet Kaur and Vice Principal Amarpal Kaur received the Indian Army's brave-heart. Members of the staff and students were also present.

The event commenced with a well-orchestrated Guard of Honor given by the school’s NCC Army and Air Wing students. In a heartfelt gesture, he was welcomed with a traditional ‘pahari’ greeting, celebrating Kumar’s rich heritage as a Himachali and recognizing his prestigious Param Veer Chakra (PVC) award.

In an engaging session in which the war hero addressed students, Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar recounted his gripping experiences from the Kargil War, captivating the students with stories of valour of the Indian armed forces. He spoke of the critical capture of Flat Top, a strategic height fiercely defended by enemy forces. “Our victory was incomplete without it,” he emphasized, recalling the intense moments when he volunteered to scout enemy positions, facing formidable challenges head-on.

With excitement in the room, he narrated how, under heavy fire, he crawled towards enemy bunkers, undeterred by injuries. “Despite being shot in the chest and forearm, I pushed forward. I had a job to do,” he stated, embodying the spirit of resilience. His gripping account included moments of fierce combat where he neutralized enemy positions with unyielding determination, even after sustaining serious injuries.

“I cleared the first bunker, and even while bleeding, I pressed on, taking out the next stronghold,” Kumar shared, his voice in a mix of pride and humility. “Only after securing that critical ground did I allow myself to be evacuated.”

Director of Paragon Senior Secondary School, Iqbal Shergill said "We are honoured to have Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar on this occasion. His inspiring story of exemplary bravery, certainly will imbibe qualities of patriotism and learning within the hearts of young minds, paving the way for their brighter future.”

Expressing her gratitude, Principal Jasmeet Kaur said, "We are grateful to Subedar Major Kumar for further strengthening the feeling of national pride and a passion for learning in the students."

Jitender Shergill said that the school made all efforts to invite Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar to the school. All due permissions and approvals were taken from the highest levels in the Ministry of Defence, which paved the way for the visit.  

Kulwant Kaur Shergill, President of Paragon School added "This library inaugurated by Kumar will be a beacon of knowledge for our students. The books here will help students develop the habit of reading for future growth."

During the event, the students electrified the atmosphere with patriotic songs and performances. Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar also toured the school, where he was warmly felicitated by the members of management, staff, and students, recognizing his extraordinary contributions to the nation. Over 50 students of Paragon Sr. Sec School 71, Mohali who are training at Mohali Defence Academy were also in attendance.