The Impressive TimesNew Delhi,22 May 2025 – In a solemn and inspiring ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan today, President Smt. Droupadi Murmu bestowed six Kirti Chakras—including four posthumously—and 33 Shaurya Chakras, of which seven were awarded posthumously. These prestigious honours recognized the extraordinary courage and selfless service of personnel from the Armed Forces, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), and police forces from various states and union territories.
These gallantry awards mark the Phase-I of the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2025, where the President commended the awardees for their fearless dedication, often placing their lives on the line to protect the nation.
Kirti Chakras were awarded to Major Malla Rama Gopal Naidu and Major Manjit for their valour during operations in Jammu & Kashmir.
Posthumous Kirti Chakras were conferred upon Rifleman Ravi Kumar, Colonel Manpreet Singh, Naik Dilwar Khan, and DSP Himayun Muzzammil Bhat, whose actions in anti-terror operations saved countless lives.
The 33 Shaurya Chakra awardees included:
Officers of the Indian Army, such as Lt Col Vijay Verma, Col Pawan Singh, and Maj Sahil Randhawa, for gallant actions during counter-insurgency operations.
Indian Air Force personnel, including Wing Commander Vernon Keane and Flight Lieutenant Aman Singh Hans, who showed immense bravery in critical flying missions.
Indian Navy officers, like Commodore Sharad Sinsunwal, who led daring maritime rescue operations, including anti-piracy and firefighting missions at sea.
CRPF and Assam Rifles personnel, honoured for their role in Left Wing Extremism-affected zones, where several Maoist insurgents were neutralized and weapons seized.
Among the posthumous Shaurya Chakra awardees were:
Major Aashish Dhonchak and Sepoy Pardeep Singh, who laid down their lives fighting terrorism in Kashmir.
Captain Deepak Singh of the Signals Regiment, remembered for his heroic actions during a high-stakes mission.
Personnel from CRPF and BRO were also recognised for acts of supreme sacrifice.
From high-altitude warfare to insurgency-hit forests and stormy seas, the decorated personnel have exemplified the highest traditions of service. Many of the operations involved direct engagement with terrorists, rescue of civilians, and successful apprehension of heavily armed insurgents. Others showed calm under life-threatening conditions—such as aircraft malfunctions or fires aboard naval vessels.
These honours serve as a powerful reminder of the courage that underpins India’s security forces, whose unflinching spirit ensures the safety and sovereignty of the nation.
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