resident Droupadi Murmu conferred seven Kirti Chakras, India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award, at a Defence Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, recognising extraordinary courage, valour and devotion to duty displayed by personnel of the armed forces.
The recipients of the Kirti Chakra included Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair of the Indian Air Force, one of the astronauts selected for the Gaganyaan mission; Colonel Manpreet Singh (posthumous); Deputy Commandant Pawan Kumar (posthumous); Major Malla Rama Gopal Naidu; Major Manjit; Naik Dilwar Khan; and Inspector Sunil Kumar. Several of the awardees were honoured for displaying exceptional bravery during counter-terrorism operations and high-risk missions.
Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair’s inclusion among the recipients highlighted the growing recognition of contributions made in strategic and nationally significant missions. The Kirti Chakra is awarded for conspicuous bravery, self-sacrifice and exceptional courage away from the battlefield.
Of the seven Kirti Chakras awarded this year, some were conferred posthumously in recognition of personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the nation. Family members of the deceased awardees received the honours on their behalf during the ceremony.
Addressing the gathering, President Murmu praised the courage, commitment and professionalism of India’s armed forces and security personnel. She said the gallantry award recipients embodied the highest traditions of service and dedication, inspiring future generations through their actions.
The investiture ceremony also recognised personnel from the Army, Navy, Air Force and other security agencies who distinguished themselves through acts of exceptional bravery. The awardees were honoured for their ability to perform under extreme pressure while protecting national interests and ensuring the safety of citizens.
The Kirti Chakra remains one of India’s most prestigious gallantry awards and is regarded as a symbol of extraordinary heroism. The honour reflects the nation’s gratitude towards individuals who display exceptional courage in the face of danger.
Defence officials said the award recipients represented the finest values of the armed forces, including duty, integrity and sacrifice. Their achievements, they noted, demonstrate the dedication of military personnel who continue to serve in demanding operational environments across the country.
The ceremony concluded with tributes to all gallantry award winners, recognising their contributions to national security and their commitment to serving India with courage and distinction.
Also Read: Kerala on alert after child dies of Shigella infection
