Independence Day 2026: 1,057 Personnel Get Gallantry, Service Medals

New Delhi, August 14: The Ministry of Home Affairs has announced the award of Gallantry and Service Medals to 1,057 personnel from the Police, Fire, Home Guard & Civil Defence and Correctional Services on the occasion of Independence Day 2026. The announcement was made on August 14, 2026.

The Medal for Gallantry (GM) is awarded for conspicuous acts of bravery in saving life and property, preventing crime, or arresting criminals, with the risk assessed in the context of the officer's duties. This year, 301 personnel have been awarded the GM. Of these, 272 are from the police and 29 from the fire service. Region-wise, 197 awardees are from Left Wing Extremism-affected areas, 51 from Jammu & Kashmir, 12 from the northeast, and 41 from other regions.

In addition, 92 President's Medal for Distinguished Service (PSM) have been awarded for special and distinguished records of service. This includes 83 to the Police Service, four to the Fire Service, three to the Civil Defence & Home Guard Service, and two to the Correctional Service.

Separately, 664 Medal for Meritorious Service (MSM) awards recognise valuable service marked by resourcefulness and devotion to duty. The MSM list includes 606 police personnel, 28 from the fire service, 18 from the Civil Defence & Home Guard, and 12 from the Correctional Service.

The awards are routinely announced twice a year, on Independence Day and Republic Day, to honour the brave and dedicated service of personnel who often work in challenging and hazardous conditions. The Home Ministry's statement underscores the government's recognition of their contribution to national security and public safety.