On a day that marked a new chapter in the story of India’s armed forces, Assistant Commandant Neha Bhandari — a third-generation security personnel — was awarded the Commendation Disc by Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi for her extraordinary bravery and sharp operational skills during Operation Sindoor.
What makes this moment truly special is not just the honor, but the person behind it. Neha Bhandari didn’t just wear the uniform — she owned it. As a Border Security Force (BSF) officer, she led a unit stationed at one of the most tense locations in Jammu and Kashmir — the Pargwal area in Akhnoor sector, barely 150 metres from the International Border. There, during the course of Operation Sindoor — India’s hard-hitting response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam — she stood her ground and led from the front.
This wasn’t just about guarding the border. This was a combat mission, and Neha, with just under three years of service in the BSF, showed the grit and command that most veterans take a career to build. She wasn’t alone, either — part of a rare team that included only six women constables, Neha helped take out three enemy posts during the recent border clashes. Her unit held the line under pressure and pushed back with force.
“I’m proud to be here with my troops, holding the line at the International Border,” Neha said on Saturday. “My grandfather served in the Army, my father is with the CRPF, and my mother is also in the CRPF. I’ve grown up surrounded by service, sacrifice, and pride. To carry that forward and command a post so close to the border is a true honor.”
Right now, she’s posted in the Akhnoor sector, a region that demands constant vigilance and unshakable courage — and she’s showing both, every single day.
The BSF Jammu unit celebrated her recognition in a post on X (formerly Twitter):
“On 30 May 2025, COAS General Upendra Dwivedi, PVSM, AVSM, felicitated Assistant Commandant Neha Bhandari of BSF Jammu with the Commendation Disc for her exceptional courage and operational proficiency during Operation SINDOOR. She gallantly commanded a forward-deployed BSF company under challenging conditions.”
Meanwhile, General Dwivedi, who was in Jammu for a two-day visit, took part in a high-level security review led by Home Minister Amit Shah. As part of the visit, he inspected troop readiness and visited the Tiger Division, where he commended the forces for their role in Operation Sindoor.
A statement from Defence PRO read:
“General Dwivedi reviewed operational preparedness in the Pargwal sector and visited the Tiger Division where he commended troops for their outstanding performance in Operation Sindoor. He stressed the importance of staying agile and vigilant in response to evolving security dynamics.”
The Army Chief also praised the BSF’s close coordination with the Indian Army, highlighting the smooth teamwork and mutual trust that led to successful operations. Special mention was made of Assistant Commandant Neha Bhandari, whose courage and leadership on the front lines stood out as an example to others.
He also acknowledged the behind-the-scenes support of ex-servicemen, whose quiet but crucial efforts added strength to Operation Sindoor.
For Neha Bhandari, this isn’t just an award — it’s a moment that speaks to decades of family tradition, national service, and the rising power of women in uniform. She didn’t just follow a path — she carved her own. And with every step she takes along the International Border, she proves that courage, leadership, and honor aren’t defined by gender — they’re defined by action.
Description:
"Discover the inspiring story of Assistant Commandant Neha Bhandari, a third-generation security officer in the BSF, who received a Commendation Disc from Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi for her bravery and leadership during Operation Sindoor in Jammu and Kashmir's Akhnoor sector. Learn how this trailblazing woman officer led her unit on the International Border, destroyed enemy posts, and made history in India's fight against terrorism."