As India prepares to celebrate its 77th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu has approved a remarkable set of 70 gallantry awards for the armed forces, including six posthumous recognitions that immortalize the sacrifices of fallen heroes.
Breaking down the awards: one Ashok Chakra, three Kirti Chakras, 13 Shaurya Chakras (one posthumous), one Bar to Sena Medal (Gallantry), 44 Sena Medals (Gallantry) with five posthumous, six Nau Sena Medals (Gallantry), and two Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry). These honors spotlight the unyielding courage of personnel across all branches.
Army heroes clinching Shaurya Chakras include Lt Col Ghateghe Aditya Shrikumar (21 Para SF), Major Anshul Baltu (32 Assam Rifles), Major Shivkant Yadav (5 Para SF), Major Vivek Mech (42 RR), Major Leishangthem Deepak Singh (11 Para SF), and Captain Yogendra Singh Thakur (6 Para SF). Further recipients: Subedar PH Moses (1 AR), Baldev Chand (posthumous, 4 RR), Rifleman Manglam Sang Waifei (3 AR), and Rifleman Dhruba Jyoti Dutta (33 AR).
The Navy makes headlines with two female officers, Lt Cdr Dilna K. and Lt Cdr Rupa A., receiving Shaurya Chakras—a testament to women’s rising valor in defense ranks.
President Murmu also cleared 301 service medals, detailed as 30 PVSM, 4 UYSM, 56 AVSM, 9 YSM, 2 Bar to SM (D), 43 SM (D), 8 NM (D), 14 VSM (D), and 135 VSM, honoring distinguished service.
Adding to the festivities, 131 Padma Awards for 2026 were approved. These elite civilian honors—Padma Vibhushan for exceptional service, Padma Bhushan for high distinction, and Padma Shri for notable contributions—span diverse fields like arts, science, sports, and public service. Announced annually on this day, they inspire national pride and unity.