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Essay on Gallantry Award Winners: Gallantry awards are given to individuals who show exceptional courage, bravery, and selflessness in difficult situations. These awards recognize the heroic acts of soldiers, police officers, and citizens who put their lives at risk to protect others and serve the nation. In India, such awards include the Param Vir Chakra, Ashoka Chakra, and many others, which are a way of honouring the extraordinary efforts of those who protect the safety and peace of the country. This blog will highlight the inspiring stories of Gallantry Award winners, showing how their courage can motivate us to be brave and selfless in our daily lives.
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Essay on Gallantry Award Winners in 150 Words
India’s gallantry awards were instituted to honour extraordinary bravery and sacrifice by individuals serving in the armed forces. The first set of these awards – Param Vir Chakra (PVC), Maha Vir Chakra (MVC), and Vir Chakra (VC) – were established on January 26, 1950, following India’s transition to a republic. The gallantry awards recognise acts of valour during wartime.
The first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra was Major Somnath Sharma, who displayed exemplary courage during the Indo-Pak War of 1947-48. Despite being severely injured, he led his company in defending Srinagar Airport against a larger enemy force. Major Sharma’s fearless leadership and sacrifice not only safeguarded a strategic location but also inspired generations of soldiers.
Other notable early recipients include Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, the only PVC recipient in the Indian Air Force, and Naik Jadunath Singh, who defended his post against overwhelming odds during the same conflict. Their valorous acts laid the foundation for India’s proud tradition of honouring bravery. These individuals symbolise the highest ideals of duty, honour, and selflessness, embodying the spirit of a nation eternally grateful for their service.
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Essay on Gallantry Award Winners in 300 Words
Every year, on Republic Day, India honours individuals who have shown extraordinary bravery through the Gallantry Awards. These awards recognise acts of courage and selflessness, often in life-threatening situations. They are given to soldiers, police officers, and civilians who risk their lives to protect others and serve the nation. On January 26, 2025, the nation recognised 93 brave individuals for their incredible acts of bravery, showing the deep gratitude India holds for its heroes.
The Param Vir Chakra is the highest award for bravery during wartime, and it is followed by the Ashoka Chakra, which is the highest peacetime award. The Shaurya Chakra and Kirti Chakra are also given to those who display exceptional courage in different situations. This year, the awards were presented during a special ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where the President of India, Draupadi Murmu, honoured the recipients.
In 2025, Major Manjit of 22 Rashtriya Rifles and Naik Dilwar Khan of 28 Rashtriya Rifles received the Kirti Chakra for their bravery during a counter-insurgency operation in Jammu and Kashmir. Even in the face of enemy fire, they showed remarkable courage to protect their team. Major Ashish Dahiya and Major Kunal were awarded the Shaurya Chakra for their leadership during military operations in different parts of India. Their actions saved many lives and neutralised dangerous threats.
This year’s Ashoka Chakra recipients included Assistant Commandant Eshenthung Kikon, who saved many lives during a terrorist attack, and Rashmi Kumari, a teacher from Bihar, who saved her students during an earthquake. Both showed immense courage to protect others at the cost of their own safety.
These Gallantry Awards remind us of the importance of courage, sacrifice, and service. They encourage us to be brave and selfless in our own lives, serving as a source of inspiration for all.
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Essay on Gallantry Award Winners in 750 Words
Every year, India celebrates its Republic Day on January 26, marking a significant occasion to honour the brave men and women who contribute to the nation’s security and progress. One of the highlights of this celebration is the presentation of the Gallantry Awards, which recognise extraordinary acts of courage, heroism, and selflessness. These prestigious awards are given to members of the armed forces, police forces, and even civilians who risk their lives for the welfare of others. The Gallantry Awards are a symbol of bravery and sacrifice, reflecting the true spirit of patriotism.
History of Gallantry Awards
The tradition of Gallantry Awards in India dates back to the country’s independence in 1947. Before this, during British rule, India had its own system of recognising bravery, such as the Victoria Cross. After independence, the Indian government created a series of awards to honour its soldiers, police officers, and citizens for their acts of valour. The highest award, the Param Vir Chakra, was instituted in 1950 for exceptional bravery during wartime. Along with it, the Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra, and Shaurya Chakra were introduced to recognise bravery both in times of war and peace.
These awards are an essential part of India’s tradition, as they not only applaud valour but also encourage others to follow in the footsteps of these selfless heroes.
The Gallantry Awards of 2025
On January 26, 2025, as part of the Republic Day celebrations, 93 individuals were honoured with Gallantry Awards. These awards included the Param Vir Chakra, Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra, Shaurya Chakra, and others. The ceremony took place at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, where the President of India, Draupadi Murmu, presented the awards to the brave men and women who displayed unparalleled courage.
Among the distinguished awardees, two individuals received the Kirti Chakra, which is the second-highest peacetime gallantry award. Major Manjit of 22 Rashtriya Rifles of the Indian Army was awarded for his exceptional leadership and bravery during a counter-insurgency operation in Jammu and Kashmir. His actions saved numerous lives and exemplified the courage required in high-pressure situations. Naik Dilwar Khan, also of 28 Rashtriya Rifles, received the Kirti Chakra posthumously for his remarkable bravery during the same operation, where he laid down his life to protect his comrades.
The Shaurya Chakra, awarded for acts of bravery in both war and peace, was conferred upon 14 personnel. This included Major Ashish Dahiya and Major Kunal, both of whom demonstrated exceptional leadership during combat situations in different regions. Their bravery helped neutralize serious threats, saving countless lives and ensuring the safety of their teams. Among the recipients of this prestigious award was Captain Deepak Singh (posthumous), who exhibited tremendous valour during a military operation in the Rajasthan desert.
The Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, was given to several distinguished individuals for their acts of courage in non-combat situations. The awardees included police officers and civilians who had acted heroically during natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or other life-threatening events.
One such recipient was Assistant Commandant Eshenthung Kikon of 4 Assam Rifles. His bravery during a terrorist attack in the Northeast region of India helped prevent a larger tragedy. Similarly, Rashmi Kumari, a teacher from Bihar, was awarded the Ashoka Chakra for saving the lives of her students during a devastating earthquake, putting her own life at risk to ensure their safety.
Significance and Rituals
The Gallantry Award ceremony is one of the most significant moments of the Republic Day celebrations. It is a time when the nation pays tribute to those who have displayed the highest degree of valour. The Republic Day Parade, which follows the ceremony, is an opportunity for the awardees to march proudly, representing the courage and sacrifice they have shown. The President of India presides over the ceremony, signifying the importance of these awards to the entire nation.
The awards are presented in a formal, yet heartfelt, ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. During this event, the recipients are conferred with medals that symbolise their extraordinary acts of bravery. The Param Vir Chakra is the highest award in this category, presented in the form of a bronze medallion. The Ashoka Chakra, awarded for peacetime valour, is made of gold and is presented to those who have exhibited courage during non-combat situations.
These rituals are not only about honouring the recipients but also about encouraging future generations to lead with bravery, integrity, and compassion. Gallantry Awards remind the nation of the importance of sacrifice and duty, encouraging young people to serve the nation selflessly.
Conclusion
The Gallantry Award winners of 2025 represent the finest qualities of courage and selflessness. Their acts of bravery, whether on the battlefield or in civilian life, have left a lasting impact on the safety and security of the country. These heroes, through their sacrifice, continue to inspire the youth of India to act with courage, integrity, and dedication.
The Gallantry Awards are a vital part of India’s national identity, symbolising the true spirit of the nation. They serve as a reminder that bravery is not confined to combat situations but extends to everyday acts of courage in the face of adversity. As we honour these awardees, we acknowledge the value of selfless service and commitment to the greater good, encouraging all to contribute to the progress and safety of the nation.
Also Read: What are the Republic Day Awards and Why are They Important?
FAQs
Essays on Gallantry Award winners should highlight their acts of bravery, detailing the context, challenges faced, and the impact of their actions. Research the recipient’s background and motivation. Analyze the qualities demonstrated, such as courage, selflessness, and leadership. Conclude by reflecting on the significance of recognizing such individuals and the inspiration they provide to society.
Gallantry Awards are prestigious honours given to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional bravery and courage, often at great personal risk. These awards recognise acts of valour by members of the armed forces, police forces, and civilians.
The Gallantry Awards system was established on January 26, 1950, with the introduction of the Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, and Vir Chakra. In 1952, the Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra, and Shaurya Chakra were added to honour acts of bravery during peacetime.
India has six Gallantry Awards:
Param Vir Chakra: Highest wartime gallantry award.
Maha Vir Chakra: Second-highest wartime gallantry award.
Vir Chakra: Third-highest wartime gallantry award.
Ashoka Chakra: Highest peacetime gallantry award.
Kirti Chakra: Second-highest peacetime gallantry award.
Shaurya Chakra: Third-highest peacetime gallantry award.
Here are some of the notable Gallantry Award Winners at 2025 Republic Day:
Kirti Chakra Awardees:
– Major Manjit, Punjab, 22 RR (Army)
– Naik Dilwar Khan, Arty, 28 RR (Posthumous) (Army)
Shaurya Chakra Awardees
– Major Ashish Dahiya, Engrs, 50 RR (Army)
– Major Kunal, ASC, 1 RR (Army)
– Major Satender Dhankar, Armd, 4 RR (Army)
– Captain Deepak Singh, Sigs, 48 RR (Posthumous) (Army)
– Assistant Commandant Eshenthung Kikon, 4 Assam Rifle (Army)
– Subedar Vikas Tomar, 1 Para (SF) (Army)
– Subedar Mohan Ram, 20 Jat (Army)
– Havildar Rohit Kumar, Dogra, HAWS (Posthumous) (Army)
– Havildar Prakash Tamang, 9 GR, 32 RR (Army)
– Flight Lieutenant Aman Singh Hans, Flying (Pilot) (Air Force)
– Corporal Dabhi Sanjay Hiffabai Essa (Air Force)
– OEM Gde-1 Late Vijayan Kutty G (Posthumous) (BRDB)
– Deputy Commandant Vikrant Kumar, CRPF (MHA)
– Inspector(GD) Jeffrey Hmingchullo, CRPF (MHA)
Gallantry Awards are conferred upon members of the armed forces, police forces, and civilians who have displayed exceptional courage and selflessness in the face of adversity.
Yes, Gallantry Awards can be awarded posthumously to honour individuals who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.
Awardees are honoured during the Republic Day celebrations on January 26 each year. The President of India presents the awards at a formal ceremony, and recipients participate in the Republic Day parade, showcasing their medals.
Yes, recipients of Gallantry Awards are entitled to various benefits, including monetary allowances, pension benefits, and other privileges as per government regulations.
Detailed information about Gallantry Award winners, including their citations and profiles, is available on the official Gallantry Awards website of the Ministry of Defence, Government of India.
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