Nirmaljit Singh Sekhon is the only recipient of the Param Vir Chakra (PVC), India's highest military honour for bravery in battle, from the Indian Air Force.
Sekhon was born on 17 July 1943, in Ludhiana, Punjab. He was a Flight Lieutenant in the Indian Air Force, serving with the No. 18 Squadron ("Flying Bullets").
Sekhon's bravery was demonstrated during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, particularly on 14 December 1971. On that day, Sekhon engaged six enemy PAF (Pakistan Air Force) Sabre jets that attacked the Srinagar Air Base.
Despite being heavily outnumbered and flying an outdated Gnat fighter aircraft, Sekhon managed to shoot down two enemy jets and disrupt the attack, but his aircraft was eventually hit, resulting in his death.
For his extraordinary courage and ultimate sacrifice, he was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra. His PVC citation describes his heroic spirit, exceptional flying skills and willingness to fight against overwhelming odds.
He remains a symbol of valour and dedication within the Indian Air Force, inspiring future generations of fighter pilots. Several tributes honour him, including a statue in his hometown, and a MiG-21 aircraft is displayed in his memory at the Indian Air Force Museum.