Gallantry Awards

Gallantry Awards in India are prestigious honors bestowed upon military personnel, other lawfully constituted forces, and civilians for acts of bravery and sacrifice. These awards are announced twice a year: on Republic Day (January 26) and Independence Day (August 15).

Key Gallantry Awards

1. Param Vir Chakra (PVC): The highest military decoration awarded for the most conspicuous bravery or some daring or pre-eminent act of valor or self-sacrifice in the presence of the enemy.
2. Maha Vir Chakra (MVC): Awarded for acts of conspicuous gallantry in the presence of the enemy.
3. Vir Chakra: Given for acts of gallantry in the presence of the enemy.
4. Ashoka Chakra: The highest peacetime military decoration awarded for valor, courageous action, or self-sacrifice away from the battlefield.
5. Kirti Chakra: Awarded for conspicuous gallantry otherwise than in the face of the enemy.
6. Shaurya Chakra: Given for gallantry in the face of the enemy, other than in direct combat.

Eligibility and Selection Criteria

The awards are open to personnel of all ranks of the Naval, Military, and Air Forces, Reserve Forces, Territorial Army, Militia, and other lawfully constituted Armed Forces. Civilians serving under the directions of any of the above-mentioned forces, including members of the Nursing Services and Police Forces, are also eligible.

Significance

These awards not only honor the bravery and sacrifice of individuals but also serve as a source of inspiration for others to emulate such valorous acts. The recipients of these awards are celebrated and remembered for their extraordinary courage and dedication to duty.