Churachandpur, July 31 -- A wave of pride and celebration swept through Churachandpur as CRPF Inspector Jeffrey Hmingchullo returned home to a hero's welcome following his receipt of the Shaurya Chakra, one of India's highest peacetime gallantry awards.

The honour was conferred by President Droupadi Murmu on May 22 at Rashtrapati Bhavan, recognising Hmingchullo's exceptional bravery during a critical anti-Maoist operation in Jharkhand's Chatra district. In a fierce firefight, he eliminated two Maoists and ensured the safety of his team, an act of gallantry that earned him national distinction.

Upon his return to his native Kuki-dominated village in Manipur's Churachandpur district, the celebrations were heartfelt and overwhelming. Hundr...