On the occasion of Independence Day 2025, a total of 1,090 personnel from the Police, Fire Services, Home Guard and Civil Defence (HG&CD), and Correctional Services were honoured with Gallantry and Service Medals for their exceptional contributions and dedication to duty.
The awards include 233 Medals for Gallantry (GM), 99 President’s Medals for Distinguished Service (PSM), and 758 Medals for Meritorious Service (MSM).
The Medal for Gallantry is conferred for rare or conspicuous acts of bravery in saving lives, protecting property, preventing crime, or apprehending criminals, taking into account the risks faced in the line of duty.
Of the 233 gallantry awards, 152 recipients are from Jammu and Kashmir, 54 from Left Wing Extremism-affected areas, three from the North-East, and 24 from other regions. The awardees include 226 police personnel, six from Fire Services, and one from Home Guard & Civil Defence.
The President’s Medal for Distinguished Service recognises a special and distinguished record in service, while the Medal for Meritorious Service honours valuable service marked by resourcefulness and devotion to duty.
Among the 99 PSM recipients, 89 are from Police Services, five from Fire Services, three from Civil Defence and Home Guard, and two from Correctional Services. Of the 758 MSM recipients, 635 belong to Police Services, 51 to Fire Services, 41 to Civil Defence and Home Guard, and 31 to Correctional Services.
These awards highlight the unwavering commitment and courage of personnel across India who work tirelessly to safeguard lives, maintain order, and uphold the rule of law.
India is set to celebrate its 79th Independence Day on Friday, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to hoist the national flag at the Red Fort in Delhi. (Agencies)
