Republic Day Eve: Government Announces 982 Service Medals for Security and Emergency Personnel
On Sunday, the eve of Republic Day, the government announced a total of 982 service medals for personnel across police, fire services, home guards, civil defence, and correctional services. This significant recognition honors the bravery and dedication of those serving in critical security and emergency roles across the nation.
Breakdown of Awards and Regional Highlights
The awards comprise 125 Medals of Gallantry, 101 President's Medals for Distinguished Service, and 756 Medals for Meritorious Service. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, Jammu and Kashmir led the tally in gallantry awards this time, followed closely by Maharashtra.
Specifically, 45 personnel from Jammu and Kashmir, 35 from Left Wing Extremism-affected areas, five from the northeast, and 40 from other regions have been awarded for their gallant actions. The largest number of gallantry medals has been awarded to personnel of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, with 33 recipients.
Notable Awardees and Force-Wise Distribution
Among the distinguished awardees are IPS officer Tanushree, Senior Superintendent of Police Sahabir Nawab, and Deputy Superintendent of Police Javaid Ahmad Lone. Maharashtra Police received 31 gallantry awards, with an impressive 28 of those going to constables, highlighting the courage at grassroots levels.
In the Central Armed Police Forces, 12 medals were awarded to the Central Reserve Police Force. Fire services saw four officers awarded for gallantry, five receiving the President's Medal for Distinguished Service, and 34 honored for Meritorious Service.
Recognition Across Various Services
Home guard and civil defence services will receive three President's Medals for Distinguished Service and 33 medals for Meritorious Service. Correctional services officers have been awarded four President's Medals for Distinguished Service and 25 for Meritorious Service.
A notable mention is Kundan Krishnan from Bihar Police, one of the most senior police officers in the state, who has been honored with the Gallantry Medal for his exemplary service.
Detailed Service-Wise Allocation
Out of the 101 President's Medals for Distinguished Service, 89 have been awarded to police service, five to fire service, three to civil defence and home guard service, and four to correctional service.
Similarly, out of the 756 Medals for Meritorious Service, 664 have been awarded to police service, 34 to fire service, 33 to civil defence and home guard service, and 25 to correctional service, as per an official statement.
Significance of the Awards
The Medal for Gallantry and President's Medal for Gallantry are awarded for a 'conspicuous act of gallantry' and a 'rare conspicuous act of gallantry' respectively. These honors recognize exceptional courage displayed in saving lives and property, preventing crimes, or arresting criminals, underscoring the government's commitment to acknowledging valor and dedication in public service.
