Republic Day Awards 2025

The Republic Day celebrations in India are marked by the announcement of various prestigious awards. Recently, President Draupadi Murmu conferred the Jeevan Raksha Padak series on 49 individuals. This follows the recognition of 942 service medals, including 95 for gallantry. These awards acknowledge exceptional contributions from civilians and personnel in the Armed Forces and police.

Civilian Awards

• The highest civilian honours in India are the Bharat Ratna and the Padma Awards.
• The Bharat Ratna is awarded for exceptional service in any field, limited to three recipients annually. Since its inception, 53 individuals have received this award.
• The Padma Awards are classified into three categories – Padma Vibhushan for distinguished service, Padma Bhushan for higher-order service, and Padma Shri for notable service. The nomination process is public, allowing individuals to nominate themselves.

Service Medals

• Service medals recognise dedication and contributions from personnel in the Armed Forces, Paramilitary Forces, and police. These awards are announced on Republic Day and Independence Day.
• The President’s Medal for Distinguished Service is awarded for exceptional service records.
• The Medal for Meritorious Service acknowledges valuable contributions.
• Recently, 101 PSMs and 746 MSMs were awarded, with number going to police and fire services.

Gallantry Awards

• Gallantry awards celebrate acts of bravery. Wartime awards include the Param Vir Chakra, Mahavir Chakra, and Vir Chakra. These are primarily for armed forces personnel who show exceptional bravery against the enemy.
• In peacetime, awards such as the Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra, and Shaurya Chakra are given for similar acts of valour.
• The Police Medal for Gallantry recognises bravery in police service and is announced biannually.

Civilian Gallantry Medals

These medals honour civilians for lifesaving acts. The Jeevan Raksha Padak Awards consist of three categories – Sarvottam, Uttam, and Jeevan Raksha Padak. Recently, 17 individuals received the highest category, with several awards given posthumously. The National Bravery Awards honour children who demonstrate exceptional courage and are awarded by the Indian Council for Child Welfare.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the significance of the Bharat Ratna in the context of Indian awards and honours.
2. What are the criteria for awarding the Param Vir Chakra? How does it differ from the Ashoka Chakra?
3. Point out the role of civilian awards in promoting acts of bravery among the general public.
4. With suitable examples, estimate the impact of service medals on the morale of armed forces and police personnel.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the significance of the Bharat Ratna in the context of Indian awards and honours.

1. It is India’s highest civilian award, recognizing exceptional service across various fields.
2. A maximum of three awards can be given annually, emphasizing its exclusivity.
3. 53 individuals have received the Bharat Ratna, showcasing its prestigious nature.
4. The award is recommended by the Prime Minister, indicating its political significance.
5. It serves as a symbol of national pride and inspires citizens to contribute to society.

2. What are the criteria for awarding the Param Vir Chakra? How does it differ from the Ashoka Chakra?

1. The Param Vir Chakra is awarded for the most conspicuous act of bravery in the face of the enemy.
2. It is primarily designated for armed forces personnel during wartime situations.
3. The Ashoka Chakra is awarded for similar acts of bravery but outside of combat situations.
4. While both recognize valor, the contexts of their awards differ .
5. The Ashoka Chakra can be awarded to civilians and personnel from various forces, broadening its scope.

3. Point out the role of civilian awards in promoting acts of bravery among the general public.

1. Civilian awards like the Jeevan Raksha Padak encourage individuals to perform lifesaving acts.
2. They raise public awareness about the importance of courage and selflessness.
3. Recognition of bravery encourages a culture of heroism in society, motivating others to act similarly.
4. Awards serve as a platform to highlight ordinary citizens’ extraordinary contributions.
5. Public nomination processes enhance community involvement in recognizing bravery.

4. With suitable examples, estimate the impact of service medals on the morale of armed forces and police personnel.

1. Service medals, such as the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service, validate personnel’s hard work and dedication.
2. Recognition through medals boosts confidence and encourages continued excellence in service.
3. For instance, recent awards to police and fire service personnel for bravery enhance their commitment to duty.
4. Medals serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made, encouraging a sense of pride and honor.
5. The impact of such recognition can lead to improved performance and a stronger sense of camaraderie among forces.