2019-01-28 Mon

Gallantry is a word for brave behavior in a man, especially on the battlefield. It is important and natural for every nation to recognize and reward the acts of bravery and gallantry. To serve this purpose, Independent India has instituted various awards and honors for deserving individuals. These are Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra, and Shaurya Chakra.

The highest decoration for valour is the Param Vir Chakra. This honor is awarded for the most conspicuous bravery or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice, in the presence of the enemy, whether on land, at sea, or in the air. The decoration is made of bronze and is circular in shape. It has, for replicas of Indra Vajra embossed around the state emblem on its obverse. On the reverse the inscription ‘Param Vir Chakra’ is embossed both in Devanagari and Roman script with two lotus flowers in the middle.

The decoration is worn on the left chest with a plain purple riband about 3.2cm in width. So far, since its inception, 21 Param Vir Chakra Award has been conferred upon the Brave Sons of the nation. These are the men of steel who have given everything to keep our country safe.

A commemorative postage stamp was issued on the Param Vir Chakra, Highest Gallantry Award of India.

Image Source: Mintage World