Captain Neikezhakuo Kenguruse Chair of Excellence
For Peace and Security Studies in Nagaland
An institutional tribute by the Centre for Internal Security Analysis to the life, courage and supreme sacrifice of Captain Neikezhakuo Kenguruse, Maha Vir Chakra, whose valour during the Kargil War continues to inspire generations across India.
The Chair is envisioned as a research, dialogue and leadership platform dedicated to advancing serious study on internal security, borderland communities, national integration, youth leadership, and the strategic importance of Nagaland in India’s North Eastern region.
The Centre for Internal Security Analysis is honoured to announce the establishment of the Captain Neikezhakuo Kenguruse Chair of Excellence, a dedicated academic and policy initiative named after one of India’s most inspiring young military heroes.
Captain Kenguruse’s life represents courage under impossible conditions, leadership in the face of adversity, and the deep contribution of the North East to India’s national security. His story is not only a story of battlefield bravery; it is also a reminder that the defence of India is carried by citizens, communities and soldiers from every part of the country.
Through this Chair, CISA seeks to convert remembrance into research, inspiration into public service, and sacrifice into a continuing platform for national learning.
Captain Neikezhakuo Kenguruse, Maha Vir Chakra, was born in Nagaland and became one of the most revered heroes of the 1999 Kargil War. He served with distinction during Operation Vijay and was remembered for his extraordinary courage, physical endurance and command presence in high-altitude combat.
On the night of 28 June 1999, while leading a daring mission in the Drass Sector, Captain Kenguruse volunteered for a dangerous assault against a heavily defended enemy position that was obstructing the advance of his battalion. Despite sustaining injuries, he continued to lead from the front and inspired his men through personal courage and determination.
For his conspicuous gallantry, indomitable resolve and supreme sacrifice, Captain Kenguruse was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, India’s second-highest wartime gallantry award.
His legacy continues to live in the hearts of the people of Nagaland, the Indian Army, the North Eastern region, and the nation at large.
The Chair of Excellence has been created to honour a national hero while addressing contemporary questions of security, leadership and social cohesion.
Captain Kenguruse’s legacy is especially relevant for four reasons:
1. Honour and National Memory
His life reminds us that national security is sustained by courage, sacrifice and duty.
2. North Eastern Contribution to India’s Security
His journey from Nagaland to the Kargil battlefield reflects the deep and continuing contribution of the North East to India’s unity and defence.
3. Leadership Under Adversity
His conduct offers a powerful model of young leadership, resilience and service before self.
4. Security With Social Purpose
His legacy encourages deeper study of how security institutions, communities and young citizens can work together for national resilience.