The Central Government has announced the selection of 1,132 personnel from various services, including police, fire service, home guard, civil defense, and correctional service, for gallantry and service medals on the occasion of Republic Day. Among them, Border Security Force’s two Head Constables, late Sanwala Ram Vishnoi and late Shishu Pal Singh, have been posthumously selected for the President’s Medal for Gallantry (PMG). The awards include President’s Medal for Gallantry (PMG) for two personnel, Medals for Gallantry (GM) for 275, President’s Medals for Distinguished Service (PSM) for 102, and Medal for Meritorious Service (MSM) for 753.
Out 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. Among the gallantry medals, 275 Medals for Gallantry (GM) have been awarded to personnel from various regions and forces, recognizing their courage and service in different challenging situations.
The Ministry of Home Affairs stated that the government has taken steps to rationalize and transform the entire award ecosystem for various services. Sixteen gallantry and service medals have been rationalized and merged into four categories: President’s Medal for Gallantry (PMG), Medal for Gallantry (GM), President’s Medal for Distinguished Service (PSM), and Medal for Meritorious Service (MSM). These medals are awarded based on various criteria, including Rare Conspicuous Act of Gallantry, Conspicuous Act of Gallantry, special distinguished record in service, and valuable service characterized by resource and devotion to duty.
