The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has released the official Gazette notification announcing the Gallantry Awards 2025, honouring exceptional acts of bravery, leadership, and service by personnel from the Indian Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). The awards also recognize the heroes of Operation Sindoor, who displayed extraordinary courage in high-risk missions.
Total Awards Approved
President Droupadi Murmu has approved 127 Gallantry Awards and 40 Distinguished Service Awards. Additionally, 290 personnel have been recognized through Mention-in-Despatches across various forces:
| Force/Organization | Mentions-in-Despatches |
|---|---|
| Indian Army | 115 |
| Indian Navy | 05 |
| Indian Air Force | 167 |
| Border Roads Development Board | 03 |
Breakdown of Gallantry and Distinguished Service Awards
- Kirti Chakra – 04
- Vir Chakra – 15
- Shaurya Chakra – 16
- Bar to Sena Medal (Gallantry) – 02
- Sena Medal (Gallantry) – 58
- Nao Sena Medal (Gallantry) – 06
- Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) – 26
- Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal – 07
- Uttam Yudh Seva Medal – 09
- Yudh Seva Medal – 24
Heroes of Operation Sindoor and Other Missions
Among the decorated officers, Colonel Koshank Lamba of the 302 Medium Regiment was awarded the Vir Chakra for exemplary leadership and successful execution of a high-secrecy air mobilization mission under Operation Sindoor. His actions ensured the timely deployment of specialized equipment vital for operational success.
Lieutenant Colonel Sushil Bisht of the 1988 (Independent) Medium Battery also received the Vir Chakra for leading a successful counter-terrorism mission that resulted in the destruction of enemy camps, showcasing exceptional courage and tactical skill.
Indian Air Force Honorees
Three Indian Air Force officers received recognition for their gallantry during critical aerial operations:
- Group Captain Ranjeet Singh Sidhu received the Vir Chakra for his decisive leadership during precision airstrike missions, ensuring the successful neutralization of all targets.
- Group Captain Animesh Patni, commander of a Surface to Air Missile (SAM) squadron, was also awarded the Vir Chakra for his accurate targeting and effective damage assessment during a critical air defence mission.
- Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik was honoured with the Vir Chakra for leading a daring midnight strike deep inside enemy territory. Despite intense radar surveillance and air defence threats, he successfully completed the mission, destroying fortified enemy targets.
The Gallantry Awards 2025 reflect India’s unwavering commitment to recognizing valour, courage, and devotion to duty. The stories of these soldiers and officers continue to inspire generations, reinforcing the indomitable spirit of the Indian Armed Forces.
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