New Delhi, August 14(HS): In a solemn and dignified tradition that reflects the nation’s gratitude to its men and women in uniform, the Government of India has conferred 14,001 honorary military ranks upon serving and retired personnel of the Armed Forces on the occasion of the country’s 79th Independence Day.

These honorary commissions — awarded to both active-duty soldiers and veterans — honour the exceptional service, leadership, and dedication demonstrated by members of the Army, especially Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) and equivalent ranks. The list encompasses Honorary Captains, Honorary Lieutenants, Honorary Subedars, Honorary Subedar Majors, and Honorary Naib Subedars.

Breakdown of the Honors

According to the official data released by the Press Information Bureau, the following distinctions were awarded this year:

- Honorary Captain — 446 active | 1,346 post-retirement

- Honorary Lieutenant — 1,791 active | 515 post-retirement

- Honorary Subedar Major — 4,516 post-retirement

- Honorary Subedar — 785 post-retirement

- Honorary Naib Subedar — 4,602 post-retirement

While active-duty awards reflect recognition for steadfast leadership and operational excellence during service, post-retirement honors acknowledge a lifetime of contribution, extending far beyond the battlefield into community and veterans’ welfare.

A Time-Honoured Military Tradition

Honorary ranks in the Indian Army are not merely ceremonial titles — they carry immense respect and heritage, often marking the culmination of decades of service. They are conferred on national occasions such as Republic Day and Independence Day, symbolising the nation’s collective salute to its defenders.

Military historians observe that these awards strengthen the emotional bond between the Armed Forces and the people of India, enhancing morale within the ranks while reaffirming the Army’s ethos of “Service Before Self.”

Tribute from the Nation

Senior defence officials have emphasised that these distinctions are not just personal milestones but also recognition of the regiments and corps these men and women have served. On this year’s Independence Day, the honours also came as a reminder of the armed forces’ continuing role in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and security.

As the tricolour flutters high across the country, the conferment of these honorary ranks stands as a testament to India’s enduring respect for its soldiers — both those currently serving and those who once wore the uniform with pride.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar