Independence Day 2026: Over 1,000 Personnel Honored with Gallantry and Service Medals
Recognition of Bravery and Service
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New Delhi, August 14: The Ministry of Home Affairs announced that 1,057 individuals from various services, including Police, Fire, Home Guard, Civil Defence, and Correctional Services, have been honored with Gallantry and Service Medals in celebration of Independence Day 2026.
The awards comprise 301 Gallantry Medals, 92 President’s Medals for Distinguished Service, and 664 Medals for Meritorious Service.
As per the ministry, the Gallantry Medal (GM) is conferred for “notable acts of bravery in saving lives and property, or in preventing crimes or apprehending offenders,” considering the risks faced by the officers.
Out of the 301 Gallantry Medals awarded, 272 were given to police officers, while 29 were presented to members of the Fire Service.
A considerable portion of the awardees operated in regions facing security challenges. The ministry reported that 197 personnel were recognized from areas impacted by Left Wing Extremism, 51 from Jammu and Kashmir, 12 from the North-East, and 41 from other regions for their courageous actions.
Additionally, the ministry revealed that 92 President’s Medals for Distinguished Service (PSM) were awarded.
“The President’s Medal for Distinguished Service is granted for exceptional service records,” stated the ministry.
Among the 92 PSM awards, 83 were given to Police Service members, four to Fire Service personnel, three to Civil Defence and Home Guard members, and two to Correctional Service staff.
Moreover, 664 individuals received the Medal for Meritorious Service (MSM).
The Medal for Meritorious Service is awarded for “valuable contributions characterized by dedication and commitment to duty.”
Of the 664 MSM recipients, 606 are from the Police Service, 28 from the Fire Service, 18 from Civil Defence and Home Guard, and 12 from Correctional Services.
In total, the Police Service represented the majority of the service medals awarded this year.
The ministry has also published detailed lists of the recipients of the Gallantry Medals, President’s Medals for Distinguished Service, and Medals for Meritorious Service, including state-wise and force-wise breakdowns of the awardees.
These medals honor personnel for their acts of valor, distinguished service, and unwavering commitment to duty across various sectors, including policing, firefighting, civil defense, home guards, and correctional services, in the lead-up to the nation’s Independence Day festivities.