Srinagar, July 6: Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, PVSM, AVSM, SM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Northern Command, has been conferred the Best War Service Medal by the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, during the Defence Investiture Ceremony-II held at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The prestigious honour recognises Lieutenant General Sharma's exceptional leadership, distinguished military service, and significant contribution to safeguarding the nation's security and sovereignty. The award reflects nearly four decades of exemplary service marked by operational excellence, strategic foresight, and unwavering dedication to duty.

A native of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Lieutenant General Sharma began his military journey at Uttar Pradesh Sainik School before undergoing training at the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the Indian Military Academy (IMA). He was commissioned into the Indian Army on December 19, 1987, as a Second Lieutenant in the 2nd Battalion of The Madras Regiment. Over the years, he has held a series of key command, operational, instructional and staff appointments, establishing himself as one of the Army's most accomplished military leaders.

Lieutenant General Sharma has maintained a long and distinguished association with Jammu and Kashmir. As a Brigadier, he commanded the 80 Infantry Brigade, overseeing frontline operations and counter-infiltration measures along the Line of Control. He later served as General Officer Commanding of the 25 Infantry Division, where he further strengthened operational preparedness and security coordination in one of the country's most challenging theatres.

Before assuming command of the Northern Command, he held several prestigious appointments at the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence (Army) in New Delhi. As Director General of Military Operations (DGMO), he was responsible for operational planning and military coordination at the national level. He subsequently served as Deputy Chief of Army Staff (Strategy), playing a key role in strategic planning concerning India's northern frontiers.

His leadership has also been associated with Operation Sindoor, during which the Indian Army carried out coordinated operations aimed at enhancing national security and responding to evolving operational challenges. His emphasis on meticulous planning, operational readiness and effective execution has earned him widespread respect within military circles.

Beyond his operational achievements, Lieutenant General Sharma is widely recognised for his people-centric leadership. During his tenure in Jammu and Kashmir, he consistently promoted meaningful engagement with local communities, emphasising that trust, cooperation and mutual respect between the Army and civilians are essential for lasting peace and stability.

He has also maintained a professional and constructive relationship with the media, recognising the importance of timely and responsible communication in a sensitive operational environment. His transparent approach and accessibility earned him appreciation from journalists across Jammu and Kashmir while ensuring operational security remained uncompromised.

Over the course of his illustrious career, Lieutenant General Sharma has been decorated with several of the nation's highest military honours, including the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), Sena Medal (SM) and now the Best War Service Medal. These decorations reflect his distinguished leadership, exceptional devotion to duty and invaluable contribution to the Indian Army.

The conferment of the Best War Service Medal marks yet another milestone in Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma's distinguished military career. From a young cadet in Lucknow to commanding the Indian Army's strategically vital Northern Command, his journey stands as a testament to professionalism, courage, strategic vision and selfless service to the nation.