Twenty-six other air warriors were awarded the Vayu Sena Medal for exceptional devotion to duty and acts of valour. (Photo: Social Media)
The Narendra Modi government on Thursday announced gallantry awards for 36 Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel for their roles in the successful execution of Operation Sindoor. The announcement comes just days before Independence Day, marking a proud moment for the nation.
Nine IAF officers, including fighter pilots who targeted terrorist headquarters in Muridke and Bahawalpur and key Pakistani military assets, received the Vir Chakra, India’s third-highest wartime gallantry medal.
The recipients include Group Captains R S Sidhu, Manish Arora, Animesh Patni, and Kunal Kalra. Wing Commander Joy Chandra, Squadron Leaders Sarthak Kumar, Siddhant Singh, Rizwan Malik, and Flight Lieutenant A S Thakur were also honoured. Their roles spanned multiple mission-critical operations that ensured the success of the offensive.
One officer received the Shaurya Chakra, given for courageous action or self-sacrifice while not directly engaged with the enemy. This decoration ranks just after the Ashoka Chakra and Kirti Chakra in precedence.
Twenty-six other air warriors were awarded the Vayu Sena Medal for exceptional devotion to duty and acts of valour.
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Launched on May 7, Operation Sindoor was a direct reaction to the terror assault in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives. Over 100 terrorists were killed when Indian forces struck nine terrorist facilities located deep within Pakistani territory.
The operation marked the first-ever conferment of the Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal to Air Force officers, recognising extraordinary service in war. Senior officers across the Army, Navy, and Air Force played key roles in coordinating the multi-branch operation.
Pakistan launched drone assaults on Indian territory after the initial strikes. However, the threats were neutralised by Indian air defence systems. Eleven viral Pakistani military and radar installations were destroyed by further strikes by Indian soldiers on May 10.
The escalation prompted Pakistan to seek a ceasefire agreement, signalling the operation’s strategic impact.
During the operation, IAF pilots shot down six Pakistani jets, according to to Air Force Chief Air Marshal AP Singh. A number of F--16 planes were also damaged. These acts showed how accurate, ready, and skilled Indian pilots were in high-stress combat situations.
In addition to honoring the officers' valor, the gallantry medals demonstrate India's military power and Independence. The honor is a tribute to the bravery and professionalism of the Indian Air Force, especially as Independence Day approaches.
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