New Delhi, On the eve of Republic Day, the Union government announced the prestigious Gallantry and Service medals to recognize the exemplary contributions of 1,132 personnel from various agencies, including paramilitary forces, police, fire service, home guard, civil defense, and correctional service.
Gallantry Awards Acknowledge Exceptional Valor
Of the 277 Gallantry Awards, two individuals were posthumously honored with the President’s Medal for Gallantry (PMG), while 275 received the Medal for Gallantry (GM). The awardees demonstrated outstanding courage and dedication in various challenging situations, with a significant focus on personnel from Left Wing Extremism-affected areas, Jammu & Kashmir, and other regions.
One of the PMGs was awarded to Border Security Force (BSF) personnel, Head Constables Sanwala Ram Vishnoi and Shishupal Singh. Both individuals, part of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (Monusco), displayed immense bravery during a violent mob encounter.
Valiant Sacrifice for the Greater Good
Sanwala Ram Vishnoi, deployed in Congo as part of the BSF’s 15th UN mission contingent, was seriously injured while protecting the camp from a violent mob. Despite sustaining gunshot wounds, he courageously defended the camp until his last breath, showcasing indomitable courage, dedication, and bravery.
Shishupal Singh, another BSF officer at the same camp, also prevented the mob from breaching the camp’s perimeter, even after being shot. Tragically, he succumbed to his injuries, exemplifying the highest act of valor and dedication to duty.
Distribution of Gallantry Medals Across Regions
Among the 275 Gallantry Medals, notable mentions include 72 awarded to personnel from J&K Police, followed by Chhattisgarh (26), Jharkhand (23), Maharashtra (18), Odisha (15), and Delhi (8). Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) also had significant representations.
President’s Medal for Distinguished and Meritorious Service
Additionally, the government announced 855 President’s Medal for Distinguished Service (PSM) and Medal for Meritorious Service (MSM). These awards acknowledged outstanding service contributions across various sectors, including Police Service, Fire Service, Civil Defence & Home Guard Service, and Correctional Service.
As the nation celebrates its 75th Republic Day, these honors symbolize the gratitude and recognition for the unwavering commitment and sacrifice of these individuals in serving the country.
