New Delhi, In a solemn ceremony marking the 75th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu announced a total of 80 gallantry awards, underscoring the valor and dedication of India’s armed forces. Among the distinguished awards, six Kirti Chakra and 16 Shaurya Chakra were conferred, recognizing acts of extraordinary courage and sacrifice.
Kirti Chakra Awardees:
1. Major Digvijay Singh Rawat – 21st Battalion (Parachute Regiment, Special Forces)
2. Major Deependra Vikram Basnet – Sikh Regiment’s Fourth Battalion
3. Havildar Pawan Kumar Yadav – 21st Battalion of Mahar Regiment
4. Captain Anshuman Singh – 26th Battalion of the Punjab Regiment (Army Medical Corps)
5. Havildar Abdul Majid – Parachute Regiment’s Ninth Battalion (Special Forces)
6. Sepoy Pawan Kumar – 55th Battalion of Rashtriya Rifles
Three of the Kirti Chakra awards were conferred posthumously, highlighting the ultimate sacrifice made by these brave individuals in the line of duty.
Shaurya Chakra Awardees:
1. Major Maneo Francis – Parachute Regiment’s 21st Battalion
2. Major Amandeep Jakhar – Sikh Regiment’s Fourth Battalion
3. Naib Subedar Baria Sanjay Kumar Bhamar Singh – Mahar Regiment
4. Havildar Sanjay Kumar – 9 Assam Rifles
5. Parshotam Kumar (Civilian) – Rashtriya Rifles
6. Lieutenant Bimal Ranjan Behera – Indian Navy
7. Wing Commander Shailesh Singh (Pilot) – Indian Air Force
8. Flight Lieutenant Hrishikesh Jayan Karuthedath (Pilot) – Indian Air Force
9. Assistant Commandant Bibhor Kumar Singh – CRPF
10. Mohan Lal – Jammu and Kashmir Police
11. Amit Raina – Jammu and Kashmir Police
12. Faroz Ahmad Dar – Jammu and Kashmir Police
13. Varun Singh – Jammu and Kashmir Police
14. Captain MV Pranjal – 63rd Battalion of Rashtriya Rifles
15. Rifleman Alok Rao – 18 Assam Rifles
In addition to the Kirti Chakra and Shaurya Chakra, the awards ceremony included 53 Sena Medal (seven posthumous), one Nao Sena Medal (gallantry), and four Vayu Sena Medals (gallantry). President Murmu also approved 311 defense decorations to armed forces and other personnel, acknowledging their outstanding contributions.