National Tribute: Gallantry Awards Honor India’s Bravest
In a poignant ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Droupadi Murmu bestowed the prestigious Kirti Chakra upon Captain Anshuman Singh of the Army Medical Corps, posthumously recognizing his extraordinary valor and selfless sacrifice during a major fire incident in Siachen. The Kirti Chakra, India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award, was accepted by Captain Singh’s grieving wife, Smriti, and his mother, Manju Singh.
A Love Story Cut Short by Duty
In an emotional address, Ms. Smriti Singh shared the heart-wrenching tale of their love story. “We met on the first day of college, and it was love at first sight,” she recounted. However, their marital bliss was short-lived as Captain Singh was soon deployed to Siachen. Just days after a heartfelt conversation about their future together, tragedy struck on July 19, 2023, when Captain Singh lost his life in the line of duty.
A Ceremony of Valor and Sacrifice
The Defence Investiture Ceremony, held on July 5, 2024, honored ten recipients of the Kirti Chakra, seven of whom were awarded posthumously. The ceremony also recognized 26 Shaurya Chakra awardees, including seven posthumous honors, for their conspicuous gallantry, indomitable courage, and unwavering devotion to duty.
Prime Minister Modi Lauds the Bravery of India’s Soldiers
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in attendance at the ceremony, expressed the nation’s profound pride in the valor and dedication displayed by its brave soldiers. He emphasized their embodiment of the highest ideals of service and sacrifice, serving as an enduring inspiration to all.
Other Notable Awardees
Among the other recipients of the Kirti Chakra were Sepoy Pawan Kumar of The Grenadiers, Captain Anshuman Singh of the Army Medical Corps, and Havildar Abdul Majid, among others. Notably, Inspector Dilip Kumar Das, Head Constable Raj Kumar Yadava, Constable Bablu Rabha, and Constable Sambhu Roy of 210 CoBRA Battalion, CRPF were also posthumously awarded the Kirti Chakra.
Shaurya Chakra Recognizes Exceptional Courage
The Shaurya Chakra, India’s third-highest peacetime gallantry award, was bestowed upon personnel from the Army, Air Force, Navy, and Ministry of Home Affairs. A J&K Police constable also received the Shaurya Chakra posthumously, alongside six other Army personnel.
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