982 Police Personnel Honoured J&K Leads in Gallantry Awards
Poonam Sharma
New Delhi, 25th January : On the eve of Republic Day 2026, the Union Home Ministry announced gallantry and service medals for 982 personnel from police, fire services, home guards, civil defence and correctional services, recognising acts of exceptional bravery and distinguished service carried out in some of the country’s most challenging conditions.
According to the official statement, a total of 125 gallantry medals have been awarded this year. Jammu and Kashmir has emerged as the leading region, with the highest number of bravery medals going to personnel deployed in the Union Territory’s operational theatre. As many as 45 gallantry medals were awarded to personnel serving in Jammu and Kashmir, reflecting the continued security challenges and the risks faced by forces on the ground.
Areas affected by Left Wing Extremism followed closely, with 35 gallantry medals awarded to personnel engaged in operations against Naxal violence. Five medals went to personnel posted in the north-eastern states. Notably, four fire service personnel were also honoured for acts of bravery during rescue operations, underlining the critical role played by emergency responders beyond traditional policing duties.
A detailed breakup of the awards shows that the Jammu and Kashmir Police received the highest number of gallantry medals among state forces, with 33 personnel being decorated. Maharashtra Police followed with 31 gallantry medals, while Uttar Pradesh Police received 18 and Delhi Police 14. Among the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) stood out as the only force to receive bravery citations this year, securing 12 gallantry medals.
In addition to gallantry awards, the government also recognised long-term service and professional excellence. The list includes 101 President’s Medal for Distinguished Service (PSM), awarded for an exceptional and sustained record of service, and 756 Medals for Meritorious Service (MSM), given to personnel for valuable contributions marked by dedication, efficiency and commitment to duty.
The Home Ministry reiterated that gallantry medals are conferred for rare and conspicuous acts of courage. These include bravery displayed in saving lives and property, preventing crimes, or arresting criminals, often at great personal risk. The assessment takes into account the nature of duty and the danger faced by the officer at the time of the act.
The announcement serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made daily by personnel serving in conflict zones, insurgency-affected regions and during emergencies. As the nation prepares to celebrate its 77th Republic Day, the honours underscore the government’s acknowledgment of courage, service and quiet heroism displayed by those tasked with safeguarding public safety across India.
