New Delhi– In a solemn tribute to unflinching bravery and duty, President Droupadi Murmu presented six Kirti Chakras, including four posthumously, and 33 Shaurya Chakras, of which seven were posthumous, during Phase-I of the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2025 held at Rashtrapati Bhawan.
The Gallantry Awards 2025 celebrated personnel from the Armed Forces, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), and State/UT Police who demonstrated outstanding courage, grit, and selflessness in high-risk operations — from conflict zones in Jammu and Kashmir and the North-East to maritime and air safety missions.
The recipients hailed from varied branches of national defence — including the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, CRPF, Assam Rifles, and Jammu & Kashmir Police. Their acts of heroism ranged from counter-terrorist missions and ambush recoveries to life-risking rescues in fire and flight emergencies.
Among the Kirti Chakra awardees was Major Malla Rama Gopal Naidu of the Maratha Light Infantry, recognised for exceptional bravery in anti-terror operations. Colonel Manpreet Singh, posthumously honoured, led a high-risk operation in Kashmir’s Anantnag where he neutralised terrorists but succumbed to injuries — exemplifying the spirit of Gallantry Awards 2025.
The Shaurya Chakra was conferred on personnel like Wing Commander Vernon Desmond Keane of the Indian Air Force, who piloted his aircraft to safety amid engine failure, ensuring no civilian casualties. Special Police Officer Abdul Latif from J&K Police was acknowledged for fearless engagement during insurgency operations.
Posthumous recognitions included Captain Deepak Singh of the Corps of Signals and Deputy Superintendent Himayun Muzzammil Bhat of J&K Police, both of whom laid down their lives during direct combat and intelligence-based operations in volatile regions.
The Indian Navy’s awardees, including Commodore Sharad Sinsunwal and Lieutenant Commander Kapil Yadav, were commended for leading bold anti-piracy missions and emergency responses aboard burning tankers on the high seas.
CRPF officers demonstrated valour in operations against Maoist insurgents in Left-Wing Extremism-affected belts, recovering weapons and neutralising threats despite overwhelming risks. Officers like Deputy Commandant Vikrant Kumar and CT/GD Malkit Singh earned national praise for their dauntless contributions.
Air warriors like Flight Lieutenant Aman Singh Hans and Sergeant Dabhi Sanjay Hiffabhai were credited with swift action in situations that threatened both life and civilian safety, showcasing a commitment to duty above all.
These Gallantry Awards 2025 not only commemorate the sacrifices and daring of India’s defenders but also reinforce the nation’s gratitude to those who go beyond the call of duty — often with their lives on the line.
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