by: NavJeevan

Valor beyond borders: Gujarat, Tamil Nadu & J-K personnel shine in Republic Day 2026 Gallantry & Service Medals

NE DEFENCE BUREAU
NEW DELHI, JAN 25

On the occasion of Republic Day 2026, 982 personnel from police, fire services, home guards, civil defence and correctional services have been awarded gallantry and service medals by the Union Home Ministry in recognition of their bravery, exceptional service and devotion to duty, according to the official statement released by the Government of India.

  • 982 heroes from police, fire, home guard, civil defence & correctional services honoured
  • Gallantry highest for Jammu & Kashmir, with contributions from Gujarat & Tamil Nadu recognisably noted
  • President’s Distinguished & Meritorious Service Medals reflect sustained excellence
  • Officials stress courage in saving lives, preventing crime & devotion to duty

A total of 125 Medal for Gallantry (GM) decorations were announced — with 121 police personnel and four fire service rescuers recognised for rare acts of courage in saving lives, protecting property, preventing crime or arresting criminals, reflecting the highest standards of duty obligations.

Of the gallantry honours, 45 were awarded to personnel operating in the Jammu & Kashmir operations theatre, the largest contingent, followed by 35 from Left Wing Extremism-affected areas and five in the North East region.

In addition:

  • 101 President’s Medals for Distinguished Service (PSM) have been conferred for records of exceptional service, and
  • 756 Medals for Meritorious Service (MSM) were awarded for valuable, resourceful and devoted service.

Gujarat & Tamil Nadu Recognition Highlight

According to the complete award list released, several states including Gujarat and Tamil Nadu feature prominently among meritorious service awardees. In addition to J&K’s leading gallantry tally, states such as Delhi, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha and Tamil Nadu received significant totals of President’s and Meritorious Service medals, indicating broad national coverage of commendations across regions including South India.

Among Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and allied organisations, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) received notable recognition with 12 gallantry medals, five President’s Medals for Distinguished Service and 57 Medals for Meritorious Service. Other CAPFs honoured include the Border Security Force, CISF, Assam Rifles, ITBP and SSB, showcasing a cross-section of service excellence throughout India.

These awards, announced on January 25, 2026, reaffirm the nation’s appreciation for the sacrifices and professionalism of India’s internal security and emergency response personnel — from frontline counter-insurgency operations to everyday law and order duties.)

Highlight – On Gallantry Medal Criteria

Medals for Gallantry are conferred for “rare conspicuous acts of gallantry and conspicuous acts of gallantry… in saving life and property, or in preventing crime or arresting criminals, the risk incurred being estimated with due regard to the obligations and duties of the officer concerned.”

This Republic Day recognition underscores the enduring courage of India’s security and civil service heroes, from the high-altitude theatres of Jammu & Kashmir to the heartlands of Gujarat and Tamil Nadu and beyond.