Independence Day 2026: 1,057 personnel awarded Gallantry, Service Medals
Regionally, 197 of the Gallantry awardees are from Left Wing Extremism-affected areas, 51 from Jammu & Kashmir, 12 from the northeast
On August 14, 2026, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced that 1,057 personnel from various departments, including the Police, Fire, Home Guard, Civil Defence, and Correctional Services, had been honored with Gallantry and Service Medals on Independence Day. The majority of the 301 Medal for Gallantry (GM) awards, totaling 272, were bestowed upon police personnel, while 29 were given to fire service personnel.
The Medal for Gallantry is presented for acts of bravery that risk the recipient's life and duty, and these awards are regionally distributed, with 197 recipients from Left Wing Extremism-affected areas, 51 from Jammu & Kashmir, 12 from the northeast, and 41 from other regions. Additionally, 92 President's Medal for Distinguished Service (PSM) were awarded, with 83 going to the Police Service, four to Fire Service, three to Civil Defence & Home Guard Service, and two to Correctional Service.
Lastly, 664 Medal for Meritorious Service (MSM) were distributed, with 606 going to the Police Service, 28 to Fire Service, 18 to Civil Defence & Home Guard Service, and 12 to Correctional Service, recognizing exceptional service marked by resourcefulness and dedication.
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