78 gallantry awards announced

On the eve of India’s 80th Independence Day, President Droupadi Murmu approved 78 gallantry awards for personnel of the Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces, recognising exceptional courage, bravery and devotion to duty. Thirteen of these awards have been conferred posthumously, honouring personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

The honours include 9 Kirti Chakras, 1 Bar to Shaurya Chakra, 19 Shaurya Chakras, 5 Bars to Sena Medals (Gallantry), 36 Sena Medals, 3 Nao Sena Medals and 5 Vayu Sena Medals. Seven of the nine Kirti Chakras and five of the 36 Sena Medals are posthumous.

The Kirti Chakra is India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award, while the Shaurya Chakra is the third-highest. These awards recognise acts of extraordinary courage performed under extremely challenging circumstances.

The 2026 honours include personnel from the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force and Central Armed Police Forces, reflecting the contribution of security personnel working across difficult operational environments. Several awardees were recognised for their actions during operations in Jammu and Kashmir, the Northeast and other challenging areas.

The announcement carries particular significance on Independence Day, when the country remembers the sacrifices that have helped protect its sovereignty and security.

Behind every medal is a story of courage, duty and sacrifice—stories that remind the nation of the human cost behind its freedom and security.