The Indian government has conferred gallantry awards upon several military officials for their role in Operation Sindoor. Nine Indian Air Force personnel were awarded the Vir Chakra, while 16 Border Security Force officials received the Medal for Gallantry ahead of Independence Day. The awards — to be formally given during Independence Day celebrations on Friday — recognise their bravery and valor in response to the Pahalgam terror attack and subsequent retaliatory strikes.
Vir Chakra, Medal of Gallantry for Op Sindoor heroes
Nine Indian Air Force officers were awarded the Vir Chakra — the third highest wartime gallantry medal of India — on Thursday. This included the fighter pilots who led targeted strikes against terrorist headquarters in Muridke and Bahawalpur, as well as Pakistan military assets during Operation Sindoor. The Indian Air Force had also brought down at least six Pakistani aircraft in the action.
Sixteen BSF personnel were also awarded the Medal for Gallantry for exhibiting ‘exceptional bravery and unmatched valour’ during Operation Sindoor. The list included Sub-Inspector Vyas Dev and Constable Suddi Rabha, who continued performing a risky mission despite suffering life-threatening injuries due to a mortar shell explosion. For exhibiting exceptional courage and operational brilliance under intense pressure during Operation Sindoor, Deputy Commandant Ravindra Rathore and his team successfully implemented an operation on the International Border for the safety of a BSF jawan whose life was in peril. In addition, the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service (PSM) to five and the Medal for Meritorious Service (MSM) to 46 are also awarded to BSF officers and personnel.
Why are these awards conferred?
The Vir Chakra is awarded for acts of conspicuous gallantry in the presence of the enemy — recognizing brave deeds of valor and self-sacrifice during wartime conditions. The Medal for Gallantry is conferred for rare or conspicuous acts of bravery in saving lives, protecting property, preventing crime, or apprehending criminals, with due consideration to the risks faced in the line of duty.
(With inputs from agencies)