On this Republic Day, a total of 942 police, fire, Home Guard civil defence and correctional services personnel were awarded gallantry and service medals for meritorious service and exemplary contribution to public safety and national security. Former Jammu and Kashmir police officers Vijay Kumar and Rakesh Balwal were among the recipients who received gallantry medals for a heroic role in thwarting an attack on the Amarnath Yatra in June 2022. Two officers did provide a great service in eliminating a Pakistani terrorist along with his Kashmiri associate in the Bemina area of Srinagar from saving a potential tragedy during the pilgrimage.
Delhi Police Constable Vijay Kumar and Rakesh Balwal, posted in Manipur, were hailed for their bravery. Balwal, who also investigated the 2019 Pulwama attack during his stint with the National Investigation Agency (NIA), was praised for his contributions to counterterrorism operations.
Each year, the majority of gallantry medals are awarded to personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Jammu and Kashmir Police, who between them received 34 awards this year. Gallantry awards are those given to persons who perform rare and conspicuous acts of bravery in saving lives, preventing crime, or apprehending criminals whilst taking into consideration the risks which officers are exposed to whilst performing their duty.
The awards include 28 from furious Left Wing Extremism affected areas, 28 from Jammu and Kashmir and 3 from the North East region, the Ministry of Home Affairs said. Also, a few senior officers of central agencies were awarded medals of merit and distinguished service. Amit Kumar, now the inspector general of NIA, and Akash Jindal, deputy director at the Ministry of Home Affairs, were also recognised for their engagement. CBI Joint Director Ghanshyam Upadhyay was also given the Medal of meritorious service.
Join our whatsapp group for Latest updates