The Vir Chakra is an Indian wartime military bravery award presented for acts of gallantry on the battlefield, in the air or at sea.
Vir Chakra and its ribbon, the third highest military decoration of India
It is third in precedence in wartime gallantry awards and comes after the Param Vir Chakra and Maha Vir Chakra.
The award carries with it a cash allowance and, in some cases, a lump sum cash award. This has been a rather controversial issue throughout the life of the decoration. From 1 February 1999, the central government set a monthly stipend of Rs. 850 for recipients of the award. In addition, many states have established individual pension rewards for the recipients of the decoration.
It was established by the President of India on 26 January 1950 (with effect from 15 August 1947). The statutes were amended on 12 January 1952 to readjust the order of wearing as new decorations were established.
It replaced the British Distinguished Service Cross (DSC), Military Cross (MC) and Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC).
Awarded for
Acts of gallantry in the presence of the enemy, whether on land or at sea or in the air.
Eligibility- Military Personnel Only
First awarded- 1947
Last awarded -2021
Total awarded posthumously -361
Total recipients - 1322 (As of 2017)
