New Delhi, August 14 (HS): In a resounding tribute to acts of exceptional bravery and unwavering service, the Government of India has conferred Gallantry and Service Medals on 1,090 personnel from the Police, Fire Services, Home Guard & Civil Defence, and Correctional Services on the occasion of Independence Day 2025.

The honours, announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs, celebrate those who have demonstrated rare courage under fire as well as lifelong dedication to public duty.

Recognising Courage Under Fire

A total of 233 personnel will receive the Medal for Gallantry (GM) — awarded for conspicuous acts of valour, including saving lives, protecting property, foiling crimes, and capturing criminals while facing grave risks.

Service-wise recipients of the GM:

- Police — 226

- Fire Service — 6

- Home Guard & Civil Defence — 1

Of these honours, 152 go to personnel from Jammu & Kashmir, 54 from Left Wing Extremism-affected areas, 3 from the North‑East, and 24 from other regions.

Honouring Distinguished and Meritorious Service

The prestigious President’s Medal for Distinguished Service (PSM) is being awarded to 99 personnel for outstanding service records:

- Police — 89

- Fire Service — 5

- Civil Defence & Home Guard — 3

- Correctional Service — 2

The Medal for Meritorious Service (MSM) — recognising valuable service marked by commitment, resourcefulness, and devotion to duty — goes to 758 personnel:

- Police — 635

- Fire Service — 51

- Civil Defence & Home Guard — 41

- Correctional Service — 31

A Nation’s Salute

From counter-insurgency operations in J&K to disaster response by fire and rescue teams, and from LWE conflict zones to the silent, steady work of correctional staff, these honours spotlight the sacrifice and professionalism that safeguard the nation every day.

The state-wise and force-wise awardee lists are available on the official MHA and National Awards portals.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar