On the eve of the 73rd Republic Day, a significant announcement was made. Six personnel from the Indian Army were bestowed with the Shaurya Chakra, which is considered to be the third highest peacetime Gallantry Award in the country. The recognition was given in honor of their distinguished service. Notably, five out of the six awards were given posthumously. In India, gallantry awards are announced twice in the same year on the Republic Day and Independence Day.
The History of Gallantry Awards in India
Subsequent to Independence, the first three gallantry awards, namely the Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, and Vir Chakra, were instituted by the Government of India on 26th January 1950. These awards were deemed to have taken effect from 15th August 1947. Then, three more gallantry awards -the Ashoka Chakra Class-I, II, and III- were introduced in 1952, under the same effective date. These awards got renamed as the Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra, and Shaurya Chakra in January 1967. The order of precedence for these awards is the Param Vir Chakra, Ashoka Chakra, Mahavir Chakra, Kirti Chakra, Vir Chakra, and finally, the Shaurya Chakra.
Eligibility for the Gallantry Awards
The gallantry awards can be awarded to officers of all ranks in the Army, Navy, Air Force, reserve forces, territorial army, and other legally constituted armed forces. Moreover, those in the nursing services, such as matrons, sisters, nurses and other hospital staff, in addition to civilians serving under any of the aforementioned forces, are eligible.
Wartime Gallantry Awards
India’s highest military decoration, the Param Vir Chakra, is awarded for distinguished acts of valor during war. The Maha Vir Chakra, the second highest gallantry award, is given for conspicuous gallantry in enemy presence. The third-highest wartime gallantry award is the Vir Chakra.
Peacetime Gallantry Awards
The Ashoka Chakra is the highest military award during peacetime and it is awarded for valor, courageous action or sacrifice. The Kirti Chakra and the Shaurya Chakra follow it, awarded for acts of bravery or self-sacrifice.
Other Military Awards
The Sena Medal, Nao Sena Medal, and Vayu Sena Medal are awarded for exceptional devotion to duty or courage in the Army, Navy, and Air Force, respectively. These medals are given for individual acts of bravery or outstanding performance of duties.
This recognition of gallantry not only boosts morale among the forces but also instills a sense of pride and honor in the citizens of the country. It’s essential to remember and cherish these acts of bravery as they prove the dedication and courageous spirit of our armed forces.