What is the first thing that comes to our minds when we hear Gallantry awards? Bravery, valour, sacrifice? That is quite true as that is what Gallantry awards represent-the highest honors given to our defense personnel for their astounding valor, courage, and sacrifice while in the line of duty. The prestigious honor is bestowed upon defence personnel by the nation to recognize their exemplary heroism and dare that that is displayed by NDA officers.
This is a small token of thanks to showcase nations gratitude for the NDA officers for their unwavering commitment and dedication, who go above and beyond the call of duty often taking greatest risks to protect security and sovereignty of the country. These wards serve as a testament to their individual acts of valour in times of conflict and peace alike. In this article we will understand the various Gallantry awards that our esteemed forces receive for their indomitable spirit to instill a sense of pride and reverence among candidates.
As per latest Governments orders, there are eight Gallantry awards that are presented to our heroes which are illustrated below.
Paramvir Chakra
This highest honor came into existence after Independence along with Mahavir Chakra and Vir Chakra. Param Vir chakra is India’s highest military decoration which is given for eminent act of valour or self sacrifice in the presence of enemy whether on land, at sea of in air. As per the Indian Government data, medal of PVC is circular in shape and is made of bronze with purple colored ribbon .
It is one and three-eighth inches in diameter and on its reverse it has embossed “PARAM VIR CHAKRA” both in Hindi and in English with two lotus flowers between the inscriptions. All the awardees are given Rs20,000 per month wef 01 Aug2017.
Maha Vir Chakra
Maha vir Chakra is India’s second highest decoration given for act of valour shown in the presence of enemy whether on land, at sea or in the air. Mahavir Chakra is of circular shape and made of silver and it features a five-pointed star with the Ashoka emblem in the centre and around the edge is inscribed “Mahavir Chakra” in Hindi and English. NDA officers are recognized for their bravery and exceptional courage during country’s defence. Maha vir chakra awardees are given Rs 10,000 per month with effect from 01 August 2017.
Vir Chakra
Vir Chakra comes next and is the third highest military decoration given to NDA officers. This too is given for NDA officers valiance during enemy attack whether on land, sea or in the air. This bronze medal is of circular shape with a five pointed star having Ashoka emblem in the centre surrounded by lotus wreath. This medal has inscribed “Vir Chakra” in Hindi and English around the edge. Vir chakra awardees are given Rs 7000 per month with effect from 01 August 2017.
Ashoka Chakra
Ashoka chakra is India’s highest military decoration given to recognize NDA officers efforts during peacetime operations away from battlefield. This medal has a replica of Ashoka chakra similar to the wheel from the lion capital of Ashoka in the centre with words “Ashoka CHakra” inscribed both in Hindi and in English. All the awardees of Ashoka Chakra are given Rs 12000 per month with effect from 01 Aug2017.
Kirti Chakra
After Ashoka Chakra comes Kirti chakra, India’s second highest decoration given to NDA officers for their conspicuous bravery efforts during peacetime operations away from battlefield. This is a replica of Ashoka chakra with silver color and having the words Kirti Chakra embossed in Hindi and English. Awardees of Kirti Chakra are given Rs 9000 per month with effect from 01August 2017.
Shaurya Chakra
Next comes Shaurya Chakra, India’s third highest decoration given to NDA officers for showcasing their eminent courage and self sacrifice during peacetime operations away from battlefield. This bronze medal is also a replica of Ashoka chakra with words Shaurya Chakra inscribe in Hindi and English. All the awardees of Shaurya Chakra receive Rs 6000 per month with effect from 01 Aug 2017.
- Sena Medal:
Established on January 1960, the Sena Medal is a military decoration awarded by the Indian Army for Officers gallant, extraordinary dedication and commitment to their duties during challenging circumstances both during peacetime and wartime situations. This silver medal is circular in shape and features National Emblem with ‘Sena Medal’ embossed in Hindi and English. Sena medal awardees are given Rs 2000 per month with effect from01 August 2017.
The monetary allowances are given to all recipients irrespective of the rank and is Income tax exempted.
So these are the 07 medals that recognize our brave hearts for their exceptional heroism both during war and peacetime operations. Apart from these medals there is one more allowance which is given to the awardees of ‘Asadharan Seva Suraksha Praman Patra’. A monthly allowance of Rs 6000 per month is paid along with salary. Along with this allowance, the awardees are provided 75% Air travel concession in domestic sector and 1st class/AC-II complimentary Card pass of Indian Railways. The award is given for lifetime even after retirement and along with pension.
Aspiring to join the esteemed ranks of the Indian Armed Forces and potentially earn these prestigious gallantry awards requires dedication and the right preparation. Many successful candidates have benefitted from enrolling in the best NDA coaching in India. The coaching institute provide the necessary training and support to help candidates excel in the NDA exams and undertake a rewarding military career.
