Naik Anil Kumar served in 16 Punjab of The Punjab Regiment and was deployed in the Kupwara sector of Jammu & Kashmir along the Line of Control.
On 04 September 2012, he was stationed at Abdul Hut Post when the position came under heavy automatic fire from the Ratwaji Nar area. The attack created an immediate threat to the soldiers manning the post. Naik Anil Kumar was operating a Medium Machine Gun when one of his comrades was wounded in the initial exchange.
Recognising the approaching threat, he moved the Medium Machine Gun out from its protected bunker and brought it into effective firing position. Exposing himself to enemy fire, he engaged the attackers and caused a casualty, helping to stop their advance.
During the firefight, Naik Anil Kumar was himself seriously wounded. Rather than withdrawing from the engagement, he continued firing and provided covering fire for his fellow soldiers, enabling them to return fire and engage the attackers. His determination and presence of mind contributed to the successful repulsion of the assault.
Although he survived the immediate engagement, the injuries he sustained proved fatal. He subsequently succumbed to his wounds on 25 September 2012 at Army Hospital (Research & Referral), New Delhi.
In recognition of his exceptional courage, initiative and bravery in the face of the enemy, Naik Anil Kumar was awarded the Shaurya Chakra posthumously.