New Delhi: On the eve of the 78th Independence Day, President Droupadi Murmu has approved 103 gallantry awards for exceptional courage and service. Among the honors are four Kirti Chakras and 18 Shaurya Chakras, India’s second and third highest peacetime awards for bravery.
Kirti Chakras Awarded
Three of the Kirti Chakras are being awarded posthumously. The recipients are:
- Colonel Manpreet Singh: Commanding officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles (RR), who was killed in a counter-insurgency operation in Anantnag last year. He had completed 17 years of service and is survived by his wife, a son, a daughter, and his mother.
- Rifleman Ravi Kumar: A brave soldier from 63 RR, who sacrificed his life in the line of duty.
- Deputy Superintendent Humayun Muzammil Bhat: A valiant officer from Jammu and Kashmir Police, who was also killed in the same operation as Colonel Singh. Bhat is survived by his wife, a daughter, and his parents.
Shaurya Chakras Recognized
Among the Shaurya Chakra recipients are:
- Colonel Pawan Singh: From 666 Army Aviation Squadron (Reconnaissance and Observation).
- Major CVS Nikhil: Of 21 Para (Special Forces).
- Major Aashish Dhonchak: Of 19 RR (posthumous).
- Major Tripatpreet Singh: Of 34 RR.
- Major Sahil Randhawa: Of 34 RR.
- Subedar Sanjeev Singh Jasrotia: Of 5 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles.
- Naib Subedar P Pabin Singha: Of 56 RR.
- Sepoy Pardeep Singh: Of 19 RR (posthumous).
Additional Medals
The President’s approval also includes:
- One Bar to Sena Medal (Gallantry).
- 63 Sena Medals (Gallantry), including two posthumous.
- 11 Nao Sena Medals (Gallantry).
- Six Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry).
Most of these awards recognize bravery and leadership during counter-terror operations in Jammu and Kashmir, which continues to face significant security challenges.
This year’s awards highlight the remarkable courage and dedication of those who have served and sacrificed for the nation, embodying the spirit of valor and commitment that India celebrates on Independence Day.
