Yogendra Singh Yadav is one of India’s most celebrated and youngest living recipients of the Param Vir Chakra—the highest wartime gallantry award of the Indian Armed Forces. Known for his unmatched bravery during the Kargil War in 1999, Yadav’s heroic actions at the young age of 19 made him a symbol of fearless patriotism and resilience. Born into a humble family with a military background, he carried forward his family’s legacy with incredible courage, cementing his name in Indian military history.
During the Kargil War, Yogendra was part of the assault team tasked with capturing Tiger Hill, a mission fraught with near-impossible odds. Despite being hit by multiple bullets, including in the chest and shoulder, he climbed the vertical snow-covered cliff face under enemy fire and neutralized several enemy bunkers. His actions not only enabled his platoon’s success but also turned the tide in one of the most critical battles of the war.
After recovering from life-threatening injuries, Yogendra continued to serve the Indian Army with pride. His story was widely shared through news channels, books, and even in the Bollywood war drama LOC Kargil, where actor Manoj Bajpayee portrayed his role. Beyond the battlefield, he has remained active in motivating youth through public speaking and has been honored with various civilian accolades for his service.
Even today, he represents the undying spirit of the Indian Army—a hero not just by deed, but by heart.
Personal Life
| Original/Real Name | Yogendra Singh Yadav |
|---|---|
| Other/Nickname | N/A |
| Profession/Occupation | Soldier (Honorary Captain, Indian Army) |
| Birthplace | Aurangabad Ahir, Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Age | 45 years (as of 2025) |
| Date of Birth | 10 May 1980 |
| Hometown | Aurangabad Ahir, Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh |
| Caste/Religion | Yadav / Hinduism |
| Zodiac sign/Sun sign | Taurus |
| Current career status | Retired (Honorary Captain in Indian Army) |
Physical Appearance
| Height (Centimeters) | 173 cm (5’8″) |
|---|---|
| Weight (Kilograms) | 70 kg |
| Body Measurements | Athletic build |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye’s Color | Dark Brown |
Family Relatives & Siblings
| Parents | Father: Karan Singh Yadav (ex-army) |
|---|---|
| Father’s name | Karan Singh Yadav |
| Mother’s name | Not Publicly Known |
| Brother’s name | Multiple siblings; not publicly known |
| Sister’s name | Not Publicly Known |
Marital Status Affairs Boyfriends Kids & Relationship
| Boyfriend | N/A |
|---|---|
| Dating | N/A |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse/Wife | Suman Yadav |
| Son | Yes (Name not publicly known) |
| Daughter | Yes (Name not publicly known) |
Education Qualification and Schooling/College
| School | Government School in Bulandshahr |
|---|---|
| College/University | N/A (Joined Army directly after school) |
| Educational Qualification | High School |
Controversies
Yogendra Singh Yadav has maintained a clean and respected public image. No major controversies have been associated with him.
Favorite Things and Likes & Dislikes
| Favorite Food | Simple Indian cuisine (Dal, Roti, Sabzi) |
|---|---|
| Favorite Movie | LOC Kargil |
| Favorite Actor | Manoj Bajpayee |
| Favorite Actress | N/A |
| Favorite Color | Olive Green |
| Favorite Designer | N/A |
| Favorite Destination | Ladakh |
| Favorite Cafe | N/A |
| Favorite daily wear brand | Indian Army Uniform (Symbolically) |
| Favorite Book | Patriotic and military biographies |
| Favorite Athlete | Milkha Singh |
Money/Net Worth
| Salary | Pension and honorary benefits from Indian Army |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | Estimated ₹50-60 Lakhs INR (from pension, events, honors) |
Contact Information
| Official Website | N/A |
|---|---|
| E-Mail Address | Not publicly disclosed |
| Phone Number | Not publicly disclosed |
| House Address | Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh |
Social Media
| Wikipedia | [Yogendra Singh Yadav – Wikipedia] (active page exists) |
|---|---|
| Not officially verified | |
| Not active publicly | |
| Not active publicly |
Personal quote:
“My duty is to serve the nation, no matter the cost. I did what every soldier would do for his motherland.”
Early Life and Career:
Yogendra Singh Yadav was born on May 10, 1980, in a small village in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, into a humble family with military roots. Inspired by his father’s service in the Kumaon Regiment, Yogendra joined the Indian Army at the age of 16 years and 5 months—too young by standard norms but accepted due to misrepresentation of age, which was later corrected. He was inducted into the 18 Grenadiers, a regiment known for producing fearless warriors.
During the Kargil War in 1999, at the young age of 19, Yadav was part of the Ghatak Platoon assigned with the task of scaling the vertical cliff face of Tiger Hill, which was fortified by Pakistani troops. Despite being shot multiple times, he climbed the cliff and continued his assault, single-handedly destroying enemy bunkers and inspiring his unit to victory. For this unparalleled bravery, he was awarded the Param Vir Chakra—India’s highest wartime gallantry award.
Yogendra Singh Yadav became the youngest living recipient of the honor, and his story was immortalized in books and films. After recovering from his injuries, he chose to continue serving in the Army and rose to the honorary rank of Captain before retiring. His tale became a staple in military training and motivational talks across India.
Current life/Events:
Even after retirement, Yogendra Singh Yadav remains a national icon. He often speaks at youth summits, school events, and patriotic functions, inspiring millions with his story of valor. He has been featured in TV shows and interviews discussing national pride, bravery, and the spirit of selfless service.
He currently resides in his hometown with his family and remains actively involved in veterans’ affairs. Yadav was awarded the honorary rank of Captain by the President of India in 2021, further solidifying his legendary status.
Facts:
- Yogendra Singh Yadav is the youngest living recipient of the Param Vir Chakra.
- He climbed a vertical cliff while being hit by three bullets during the Kargil War.
- Initially declared dead in combat, he survived and continued fighting.
- The Bollywood movie LOC Kargil features his character portrayed by Manoj Bajpayee.
- He joined the Indian Army at only 16 years and 5 months old.
- He was awarded the honorary rank of Captain in 2021.
- His story is part of school textbooks and military training programs.
- Despite near-fatal injuries, he neutralized multiple enemy bunkers during combat.
- He was later felicitated by multiple Presidents and Prime Ministers of India.
- Yadav continues to deliver motivational speeches across the country.
