Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman was recently awarded the Vir Chakra, a celebrated wartime gallantry award, by the President of India. This highlights the importance of such awards in acknowledging the dedication and bravery of our military personnel. These accolades are announced twice annually: on Republic Day and Independence Day.
History of Gallantry Awards in India
Post-Independence, the Indian government introduced the first three gallantry awards on January 26th, 1950, retroactively effective from August 15th,1947. These were the Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra and Vir Chakra. Three years later in 1952, the advancement continued with the Ashoka Chakra Class-I, II, and III which were also deemed to have effect from August 15, 1947. In 1967, these were renamed as Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra and Shaurya Chakra respectively.
Eligibility for the Awards
All officers across all ranks in the Army, Navy and Air Force, including reserve forces, territorial army and any other legally constituted armed forces, can qualify for these awards. The eligibility extends beyond military personnel to include matrons, nurses, hospital staff and other nursing services. Civilians, both male and female, serving regularly or temporarily under the orders, direction or supervision of any of the aforementioned forces may also be considered.
Wartime Highest Gallantry Awards
The Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra and Vir Chakra comprise the highest gallantry awards during wartime.
The Param Vir Chakra is the nation’s highest military decoration, awarded for distinguishing acts of valor during wartime on land, sea or air. Following this is the Maha Vir Chakra, which recognizes conspicuous gallantry in the presence of the enemy, irrespective of the arena. Lastly, the Vir Chakra, India’s third-highest wartime gallantry award, is also conferred under similar conditions.
Peacetime Highest Gallantry Awards
In times of peace, the most prestigious military awards include the Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra and Shaurya Chakra.
Ashoka Chakra is awarded for conspicuous bravery or daring acts of valour or self-sacrifice that do not involve enemy confrontation. The Kirti Chakra, the second-highest peacetime gallantry award, acknowledges valorous actions or self-sacrifice away from battle. The Shaurya Chakra recognises extraordinary gallantry demonstrated by armed forces personnel.
Other Notable Awards
Additional awards honor exceptional devotion to duty or remarkable courage within each branch of the armed forces. In the Army, this is known as the Sena Medal; in the Navy, the Nao Sena Medal; and in the Air Force, the award is called the Vayu Sena Medal. These recognitions ensure the bravery and dedication of our personnel are celebrated appropriately.
