Courage Crowned: Gallantry Awards Bestowed by President Murmu with Pride

President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu honored six Kirti Chakras and 33 Shaurya Chakras on 22 May 2025 in the Defence Investiture Ceremony-2025 (Phase-I) held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. The ceremony recognized the exceptional gallantry, selflessness, and sacrifice of Indian Armed Forces personnel, Central Armed Police Forces personnel, and State/Union Territory Police personnel.

 

Among the six Kirti Chakras awarded, four were posthumous awards to Rifleman Ravi Kumar, Colonel Manpreet Singh, Deputy Superintendent of Police Himayun Muzzammil Bhat, and Naik Dilwar Khan, who had displayed unparalleled courage in counter-terror and counter-insurgency operations. Major Malla Rama Gopal Naidu of Maratha Light Infantry and Major Manjit of Punjab Regiment received the Kirti Chakra for exceptional gallantry.

 

The 33 Shaurya Chakras comprised 26 living awardees and seven posthumous awards for conspicuous bravery and gallantry during peacetime operations. Notably, Squadron Leader Deepak Kumar was awarded for being courageous enough to force-land an aircraft safely while under a life-threatening situation, preventing loss of lives and assets.

 

President Murmu, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, praised the awardees for their raw bravery and unwavering dedication to the nation's security. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries like the Vice President, Prime Minister, and Union Defence Minister, highlighting the nation's gratitude to its heroes.

 

Source: PIB, DD News, Business Standard, Economic Times