Naval Sub Lt Kapoor — Sullah’s double gallantry award winner
Driven by a deep sense of patriotism, Kapoor joined the Indian Navy as a sailor in 1971 at the tender age of 16
The life of Naval Sub Lieutenant Ravinder Kumar Kapoor, a proud son of Sullah village in the Sullah Assembly constituency, is an extraordinary saga of courage, leadership and unwavering devotion to the nation. A rare recipient of two Nausena Medals (gallantry), Kapoor’s distinguished service to the Indian Navy stands as a source of immense pride for the state and an enduring inspiration for generations to come.
Driven by a deep sense of patriotism, Kapoor joined the Indian Navy as a sailor in 1971 at the tender age of 16. Following rigorous basic and advanced professional training at Visakhapatnam, Jamnagar and Kochi, he was posted to a front line Naval Air Squadron in Goa. Over the next nine years, he developed exceptional expertise in communication, navigation, tactical systems, and anti-submarine warfare equipment installed in various naval aircraft, earning a reputation for professional excellence and reliability.
In 1982, despite his relatively junior rank, Kapoor’s competence and dedication secured him a place in India’s second scientific expedition to Antarctica as part of the logistics contingent. During the mission, three scientists were stranded in a violent ice blizzard at a temporary camp, cut off from logistical support and facing grave danger. Kapoor volunteered for the hazardous rescue mission, braving extreme weather and navigating treacherous, ice-laden terrain for hours. The daring operation successfully brought the scientists back to safety. For his exemplary bravery and steadfast composure under the most unforgiving conditions, he was awarded the Nausena Medal (Gallantry) by the President.
His heroism was called upon again the following year. During the third Antarctic expedition in 1983, Kapoor was once more specially selected for duty. In a dramatic incident, an Indian Air Force helicopter collided with a ship’s crane while unloading cargo and plunged into the freezing waters, sinking within eleven minutes. Without hesitation and with complete disregard for his own safety, Kapoor joined the rescue effort, displaying exceptional presence of mind and courage beyond the call of duty. His swift and decisive actions helped save five crew members from certain death. For this rare and extraordinary act of valour, he was conferred a second Nausena Medal.
