On Saturday, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu of Himachal Pradesh extended his condolences to the family of Subedar Major Pawan Kumar, who was martyred due to cross-border firing by the Pakistani army in Jammu and Kashmir.

Kumar, a resident of Ward Number Four in Shahpur, Kangra district, lost his life in the Poonch sector as a result of the gunfire from the Pakistani forces.

According to military officials, the incident occurred around 7:30 AM on Saturday, after which the family was informed of Kumar's death.

The officials further stated that Kumar's body would be transported from Poonch to Rajouri for post-mortem and necessary formalities, before being brought back to Shahpur for the final rites.

Serving in the 25 Punjab Regiment, Kumar was scheduled to retire on August 31, 2025, from his last posting in Ambala, although he had voluntarily chosen to be deployed at the border.

His family includes his parents, wife, son, and daughter. Kumar's father, Garaj Singh, is a retired Havildar from the Indian Army.

In his message of condolence, the Chief Minister remarked that Subedar Major Pawan Kumar made the ultimate sacrifice for the unity and sovereignty of the nation, and he will always be remembered.

He assured that the state government stands with the grieving family during this difficult time and will provide all possible assistance. The Chief Minister also prayed for the peace of the departed soul and strength for the bereaved family to endure this irreparable loss.

Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, along with Kangra MP Rajiv Bhardwaj and other leaders, also expressed their sorrow.