80th Independence Day 2026: 1,057 Personnel Awarded Gallantry and Service Medals

As India celebrates its 80th Independence Day in 2026, a total of 1,057 personnel from Police, Fire, Home Guard & Civil Defence, and Correctional Services have been awarded Gallantry and Service Medals in recognition of their duty and courage.

301 Medals for Gallantry (GM) Have Been Awarded

Out of the total medals, 301 personnel received the Medal for Gallantry, with 272 from the Police force and 29 from Fire Services.

What Is a Gallantry Award?

The Medal for Gallantry is given for conspicuous acts of bravery such as saving lives and property, preventing crime, or arresting criminals where the risk taken is weighed against the officer's regular duties and obligations.

197 Gallantry Medals for LWE-Affected Areas

A large share of these gallantry awards went to personnel serving in high-risk regions. Of the 301 recipients, 197 personnel were from Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected areas, 51 from Jammu & Kashmir, 12 from the North-East, and the remaining 41 from other parts of the country.

President's Medal for Distinguished Service (PSM) Is Awarded

Alongside gallantry honours, service medals were also given out. 

1. The President's Medal for Distinguished Service (PSM) recognises a special, distinguished record in service, while the Medal for Meritorious Service (MSM) honours valuable service marked by resourcefulness and devotion to duty.
2. A total of 92 PSM medals were awarded, with 83 going to Police Service, 4 to Fire Service, 3 to Civil Defence & Home Guard, and 2 to Correctional Service. 
3. Separately, 664 MSM medals were awarded, with 606 going to Police Service, 28 to Fire Service, 18 to Civil Defence & Home Guard, and 12 to Correctional Service.

Service-Wise Break Up of Medals Awarded

President’s Medal for Distinguished Service (PSM) - Total 92

1. Police Service - 83
2. Fire Service - 04
3. Civil Defence & Home Guard Service - 03
4. Correctional Service - 02

Medal for Meritorious Service (MSM) - Total 664

1. Police Service - 606
2. Fire Service - 28
3. Civil Defence & Home Guard Service - 18
4. Correctional Service - 12

Know More About - India’s 80th Independence Day 2026: Theme, Key Events, History, and Celebration