In a solemn and inspiring ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Droupadi Murmu conferred gallantry awards upon India’s finest from the armed forces, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and state and Union Territory police. The event, held on Thursday, recognised acts of extraordinary bravery in the face of danger — many of them made in the ultimate spirit of sacrifice.
Six Kirti Chakras — India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award — were presented, four of them posthumously, while 33 Shaurya Chakras were awarded, including seven posthumously. These honours were a tribute to the unwavering courage shown in counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency, anti-piracy, and rescue operations across some of the most challenging terrains and circumstances.
Gracing the occasion were Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and other top dignitaries. The gathering stood in solemn appreciation as the names and heroic deeds of the recipients were read out — each story a testament to bravery beyond the call of duty.
Among the Kirti Chakra awardees were:
- Major Malla Rama Gopal Naidu (Maratha Light Infantry)
- Major Manjeet (Punjab Regiment)
- Rifleman Ravi Kumar (J&K Light Infantry, posthumously)
- Colonel Manpreet Singh, Deputy Superintendent Himayun Bhatt (J&K Police), and Naik Dilawar Khan (National Rifles) – all awarded posthumously for their supreme sacrifice in anti-terror operations.
The Shaurya Chakra recipients included:
- Lieutenant Colonel Vijay Verma (Rajput Regiment)
- Wing Commander Vernon Keen
- Squadron Leader Deepak Kumar
- Lieutenant Commander Kapil Yadav (Indian Navy)
- Deputy Commandant Vikrant Kumar (CRPF)
- Flight Lieutenant Aman Singh Hans and Sergeant Sanjay Dahi (Indian Air Force)
- Major CVS Nikhil (Para SF)
- Along with several other gallant officers from different services.
The posthumous Shaurya Chakras were conferred on:
- Major Ashish Dhonchak
- Constable Pradeep Singh
- Havildar Rohit Kumar
- CRPF’s Pawan Kumar
- Captain Deepak Singh (Corps of Signals)
- And engineers Devan C and Vijayan Kutty G from the Border Roads Organisation
These awards commemorated heroic actions that led to the neutralization of terrorists, rescue of civilians, recovery of arms, and safeguarding national assets. One such act included a Navy-led anti-piracy mission rescuing hostages at sea, while Air Force personnel undertook high-risk flights during emergencies.
President Murmu‘s gesture not only honoured valor but reminded the nation of the extraordinary resolve and dedication with which these men and women serve. Their bravery, often at the cost of their lives, remains a cornerstone of India’s security and pride.
