On the occasion of Republic Day 2024, a total of 1132 personnel from various services, including Police, Fire, Home Guard, Civil Defence, and Correctional Service, have been bestowed with Gallantry and Service Medals. The Ministry of Home Affairs announced the awards, highlighting the dedication and courage exhibited by individuals in the line of duty.
The prestigious President’s Medal for Gallantry (PMG) has been posthumously awarded to two Border Security Force Head Constables, late Sanwala Ram Vishnoi and late Shishu Pal Singh, recognizing their extraordinary acts of courage. The awardees also include recipients of Medals for Gallantry (GM), President’s Medals for Distinguished Service (PSM), and Medals for Meritorious Service (MSM).
Of the 277 Gallantry Awards, 119 personnel from Left-wing extremist-affected areas, 133 from Jammu and Kashmir, and 25 from other regions are being honored for their gallant actions. The gallantry medals include 275 GM, distributed among various states and Union Territories.
The rationalization and transformation of the award ecosystem by the government have led to the merger of sixteen gallantry and service medals into four categories: PMG, GM, PSM, and MSM. These medals acknowledge acts of Rare Conspicuous Gallantry, Conspicuous Gallantry, Distinguished Service, and Meritorious Service, respectively.
The Ministry of Home Affairs stated that the risk incurred during these acts is evaluated based on the obligations and duties of the officers involved. The awards aim to recognize and appreciate the remarkable efforts of individuals in saving lives, protecting property, preventing crimes, and arresting criminals.
In addition to the Gallantry and Service Medals, President Droupadi Murmu has approved the conferment of Jeevan Raksha Padak Series of Awards-2023 on 31 individuals. This includes Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak, Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak, and Jeevan Raksha Padak, with three awardees being posthumously honored.
The Republic Day celebrations not only mark the sovereignty of the nation but also serve as an occasion to pay tribute to the selfless dedication and valor of those who safeguard the country’s security and well-being. The awards reflect the government’s commitment to recognizing and appreciating the exceptional service rendered by individuals across different services.