On the cusp of Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu has bestowed a profound tribute by approving 70 gallantry awards to armed forces personnel, six of which honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The awards lineup is impressive: one Ashok Chakra, three Kirti Chakras, 13 Shaurya Chakras (including one posthumous), one Bar to Sena Medal (Gallantry), 44 Sena Medals (Gallantry)—five posthumous—six Nau Sena Medals (Gallantry), and two Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry).
Key Army recipients of Shaurya Chakra: Lt Col Ghateghe Aditya Shrikumar of 21 Para (SF), Major Anshul Baltu (32 Assam Rifles), Major Shivkant Yadav (5 Para SF), Major Vivek Mech (42 Rashtriya Rifles), Major Leishangthem Deepak Singh (11 Para SF), Captain Yogendra Singh Thakur (6 Para SF), Subedar PH Moses (1 Assam Rifles), Baldev Chand (posthumous, 4 Rashtriya Rifles), Rifleman Manglam Sang Waifei (3 Assam Rifles), and Rifleman Dhruba Jyoti Dutta (33 Assam Rifles).
Notably, Navy’s Lt Cdr Dilna K. and Lt Cdr Rupa A. join the elite with Shaurya Chakras, marking a proud chapter for women in the forces.
In parallel, 301 military distinctions were sanctioned: 30 Param Vishisht Seva Medals, four Uttam Yudh Seva Medals, 56 Ati Vishisht Seva Medals, nine Yudh Seva Medals, two Bar to Sena Medals (Distinguished), 43 Sena Medals (Distinguished), eight Nau Sena Medals (Distinguished), 14 Vayu Sena Medals (Distinguished), and 135 Vishisht Seva Medals.
The President further approved 131 Padma Awards for 2026, the pinnacle of civilian recognition. Divided into Padma Vibhushan (extraordinary service), Padma Bhushan (distinguished service), and Padma Shri (valuable contributions), they acknowledge excellence in fields from literature and medicine to sports and civil duties. This Republic Day eve announcement reaffirms India’s commitment to valor and achievement.