Bhubaneswar, Aug 14: At least five Odisha Police personnel have been selected for the Medal for Gallantry (GM) on the occasion of Independence Day 2026, recognising their acts of courage and bravery while performing their duties.

According to the official list of medal recipients, the five Odisha Police personnel selected for the Gallantry Medal are Sub-Inspector Manmath Kumar Mohapatra, Havildar Nirakar Bhue, and Commandos Santosh Gurung, Suman Pun and Suresh Chandra Puta.

Odisha has also received recognition for distinguished service in the Police Service. Sanjeeb Panda, Additional Director General of Police, and Smita Rani Mohanty, Deputy Superintendent of Police, have been selected for the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service (PSM).

The honours also include personnel from the Odisha Fire Service. Malaya Kumar Mohanty, Assistant Station Officer, has been selected for the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service.

Odisha Receives Multiple Police and Service Medals

As per the state-wise medal list, Odisha Police has received five Gallantry Medals, two President’s Medals for Distinguished Service and 10 Medals for Meritorious Service this year.

The Odisha Fire Service has received one President’s Medal for Distinguished Service and two Medals for Meritorious Service, while the Home Guard and Civil Defence category has received one Medal for Meritorious Service.

At the national level, a total of 301 Gallantry Medals, 92 President’s Medals for Distinguished Service and 664 Medals for Meritorious Service have been awarded across the Police, Fire Service, Home Guard and Civil Defence, and Correctional Services.

The Independence Day honours recognise personnel for acts of exceptional courage as well as distinguished and meritorious service. The awards acknowledge their contribution to public safety, security, law enforcement and national service.