75th Republic Day Honors: 1132 Personnel Awarded Gallantry Medals

On the eve of the 75th Republic Day, the government announced the annual gallantry and service awards, recognizing the exemplary contributions of 1132 personnel from diverse agencies, including the police, fire service, home guards, and civil defence & correction service.

"16 gallantry/service medals have been rationalized and merged into the following four medals: President's Medal for Gallantry (PMG), Medal for Gallantry (GM), President's Medal for Distinguished Service (PMG), and Medal for Meritorious Service (MSM)," stated the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

In the category of President's Medal/Medal for Gallantry, a total of 277 gallantry medals were announced, comprising 275 Medals for Gallantry and two President's Medals for Gallantry. Notably, 133 personnel were recognized for their gallant actions in Jammu and Kashmir, 119 for operations in Left Wing Extremism (LWE)-affected areas, and the remaining 25 for actions in other regions. The two PMG were awarded to personnel from the Border Security Force (BSF).

Under Medal for Distinguished Service/Medal for Meritorious Service, 102 personnel will be awarded for distinguished service, with police personnel claiming the majority of 94, and four each for the fire service and civil defence. In the Medal for Meritorious Service category, a total of 753 medals were announced, with 667 awarded to police personnel, 32 to the fire service, and 27 each to civil defence and correctional service.

As the nation commemorates its 75th Republic Day, these awards stand as a testament to the valor and commitment of individuals across various sectors. The restructuring and consolidation of medals by the Ministry of Home Affairs aim to streamline recognition and acknowledge the diverse contributions made by the recipients.

In honoring these brave men and women, the government emphasizes the importance of gallantry, distinguished service, and meritorious contributions in maintaining law and order, ensuring public safety, and upholding the ideals of the nation.