Introduction
Gallantry Awards in India are prestigious honours awarded to recognise exceptional courage, bravery, and sacrifice by members of the Armed Forces and civilians. These awards highlight the extraordinary acts of valour displayed during wars, military operations, and life-threatening situations. Established to honour the fearless individuals who put the nation before themselves, Gallantry Awards hold a special place in India's history and defence system.
For students preparing for competitive examinations such as UPSC, SSC, Defence Exams, and other government exams, knowledge about Gallantry Awards is an important part of General Awareness. This topic covers the history, types, eligibility, and significance of various Gallantry Awards given in India.
For every nation which considers itself sovereign, there are individuals responsible for maintaining the security and sovereignty of the country. It is therefore, important and natural for the Nation to recognize and reward the acts of bravery and gallantry. To serve this purpose, Independent India has instituted various awards and honours for deserving individuals in the force. These are-
- Param Vir Chakra
- Maha Vir Chakra
- Ashoka Chakra
- Kirti Chakra
- Shaurya Chakra.
Individuals who are going to face a competitive examination must revise the information given here to ensure proper recalling of correct information. Let us look into the details of each of these awards one by one.
War-time Gallantry Awards in India
The following awards are given for valour exhibited in face of enemy in battlefield.
1) PARAM VIR CHAKRA :-
It is the highest decoration of valour, that is awarded for the most conspicuous bravery, some daring, prominent act of valour or self-sacrifice in the presence of the enemy on land, sea or air. It is the highest Award to be conferred in War.
The decoration of Param Veer Chakra is worn on left breast with plain purple coloured riband of given width. The decoration of PVC is made of circular bronze structure with different details embossed on both sides.
So far, since its inception, 21 Param Vir Chakra Award has been conferred upon the Brave Sons of the nation. 14 of them have been awarded posthumously.
2) MAHA VIR CHAKRA :-
Mahavir Chakra is the second highest decoration in India. It is awarded for acts of conspicuous gallantry in the presence of the enemy, weather on land, sea or air.
The decoration is made of standard silver in circular shape. It has “Mahavir Chakra” embossed in Hindi and English. It is worn on left breast with a half white and half orange riband with orange being near the left shoulder.
So far, 155 Mahavir Chakra Award have been conferred.
3) VIR CHAKRA :-
Vir Chakra is third highest decoration awarded for acts of gallantry in the face of the enemy on land,sea or air.
The decoration of “Veer Chakra” is made of standard silver with circular shape with its name embossed in Hindi and English. It is worn on left breast with half blue and half orange riband, where orange is nearer the left shoulder.gallantry awards in india
Peace-time Gallantry Awards:-
The following awards are given for services rendered during peace time.
1) ASHOK CHAKRA :-
Ashok Chakra is the highest Peacetime gallantry award, equivalent to Param Veer Chakra. It is awarded for the most conspicuous bravery, daring act of valour, or self-sacrifice on land, sea, or air.
Apart from members of armed forces, paramilitary forces, police forces, civilians from all walks of life are also eligible for this award.
It is worn on the left breast with a green silk riband with orange vertical line in middle. The Ashoka Chakra is made of gilt gold and circular shape with Ashoka Chakra embossed on one side and a replica of Ashok Chakra on obverse.
Till date, 63 people have been awarded with Ashoka Chakra by the President of India.
2) KIRTI CHAKRA :-
The Kirti Chakra is awarded for conspicuous gallantry. It is made up of standard silver in circular shape. It is worn on the left breast with green silk riband divided into equal segments by two orange vertical lines.
Earlier it was known as Ashoka Chakra class II, before 1967.
3) SHAURYA CHAKRA :-
The Shaurya Chakra is awarded for an act of gallantry. It is exactly like the Ashok Chakra, except that it is made of bronze. Even civilians are also eligible for this award. Earlier it was known as Ashok Chakra Class III.
Shaurya Chakra is worn on left breast with a green silk riband, it was divided into four segments by three orange vertical lines.
I hope these Gallantry Awards in India – General Awareness Study Material & Notes will be knowledgeable and help to update you. And also help to get success.
Conclusion
Gallantry Awards in India represent the highest recognition of courage, bravery, and sacrifice shown by individuals in the face of extraordinary challenges. These awards honour the fearless efforts of soldiers and civilians who protect the nation and inspire future generations with their dedication and patriotism. Understanding the different types of Gallantry Awards, their history, and their significance is an important part of General Awareness for students preparing for competitive examinations like UPSC, SSC, Defence Exams, and other government exams. These honours remind us of the valour and selfless service of those who contribute to the safety and pride of the nation.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are Gallantry Awards in India?
Gallantry Awards are prestigious honours given by the Government of India to recognise the bravery, courage, and sacrifice of armed forces personnel and civilians during war and peacetime.
2. Which is the highest Gallantry Award in India?
The Param Vir Chakra (PVC) is the highest military gallantry award in India. It is awarded for the highest degree of valour and self-sacrifice in the presence of the enemy.
3. How many types of Gallantry Awards are there in India?
Indian Gallantry Awards are broadly divided into two categories:
- Wartime Gallantry Awards – Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, and Vir Chakra.
- Peacetime Gallantry Awards – Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra, and Shaurya Chakra.
4. Who can receive Gallantry Awards in India?
Gallantry Awards can be awarded to members of the Indian Armed Forces, paramilitary forces, and civilians who display exceptional courage and bravery under challenging circumstances.
5. When are Gallantry Awards presented in India?
Gallantry Awards are announced on important national occasions such as Republic Day (26 January) and Independence Day (15 August). The awards are presented by the President of India.
👉Last updated on 28 July 2026.
