New Delhi, Aug 14: On the eve of India’s 79th Independence Day, President Droupadi Murmu has approved a total of 127 Gallantry Awards, 40 Distinguished Service Awards, and 290 Mention-in-Despatches, honouring the valour and dedication of personnel from the Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces.
The Gallantry Awards include:
- 4 Kirti Chakras
- 15 Vir Chakras
- 16 Shaurya Chakras
- 2 Bar to Sena Medal (Gallantry)
- 58 Sena Medal (Gallantry)
- 6 Nao Sena Medals
- 26 Vayu Sena Medals
- 7 Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medals
- 9 Uttam Yudh Seva Medals
- 24 Yudh Seva Medals
Among the awardees are officers and soldiers who played a pivotal role in Operation Sindoor, operating the S-400 and other air defence systems to successfully foil all planned attacks by Pakistan on Indian soil.
The 290 Mention-in-Despatches include:
- 115 from the Indian Army
- 5 from the Indian Navy
- 167 from the Indian Air Force
- 3 from the Border Roads Development Board (BRDB)
The Indian Air Force has been particularly recognised for its role in Operation Sindoor, with Vice Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Narnadeshwar Tiwari, DG Air Operations Air Marshal Awadhesh Bharti, and Western Air Commander Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra receiving the Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal.
In the Navy, Former Western Naval Commander Vice Admiral S.J. Singh will be honoured with the Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal for his role in Op Sindoor. Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti will receive the Uttam Yudh Seva Medal, while Vice Admiral and DGNO A.N. Pramod has been awarded the Yudh Seva Medal.
Notable gallantry award recipients include Captain Lalrinawma Sailo (4 Para, Special Forces), Lieutenant Shashank Tiwari (Army Service Corps, 1 Sikkim Scouts), and Group Captain Ranjeet Singh Sidhu (Indian Air Force), among others. These awards recognise exceptional courage, operational gallantry, and distinguished service across the Army, Navy, Air Force, and CAPFs.
President Murmu has also approved Tatrakshak Medals for five Indian Coast Guard personnel for acts of conspicuous gallantry, exceptional devotion to duty, and meritorious service.
The announcement reinforces India’s tradition of honouring the bravery and selfless service of its military and paramilitary personnel, reaffirming the nation’s gratitude to those safeguarding its sovereignty and citizens.
