
In a historic first, a mother-son duo has been conferred with prestigious Presidential Awards in the same year, marking a proud moment for the Indian Armed Forces.
Lieutenant General Sadhna S. Nair, VSM, received the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in recognition of her exceptional service and leadership in the Army. Meanwhile, her son, Squadron Leader Tarun Nair, was honored with the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) for his exemplary courage and valor in the Indian Air Force.
This rare achievement highlights their shared commitment to the nation and the values of service, sacrifice, and excellence in their respective fields. Their contributions stand as an inspiration for generations to come.
Lieutenant General Sadhna S Nair’s illustrious career is marked by her dedication to advancing operational readiness and welfare initiatives, while Squadron Leader Tarun Nair’s act of gallantry reflects the bravery and skill synonymous with the Indian Air Force.
Their dual recognition not only celebrates their individual achievements but also underscores the strength and spirit of India’s armed forces family.
Kirti Chakra awards
The prestigious Kirti Chakra, India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award, was conferred upon Major Manjit of 22 Rashtriya Rifles and posthumously awarded to Naik Dilwar Khan of 28 Rashtriya Rifles for their extraordinary courage in operations.
Shaurya Chakra awardees
Fourteen personnel received the Shaurya Chakra, with three awarded posthumously. The recipients include:
- Major Ashish Dahiya (50 Rashtriya Rifles)
- Major Kunal (1 Rashtriya Rifles)
- Major Satender Dhankar (4 Rashtriya Rifles)
- Captain Deepak Singh (48 Rashtriya Rifles, Posthumous)
- Assistant Commandant Eshenthung Kikon (4 Assam Rifles)
Other honorees include:
- Subedar Vikas Tomar (1 Para)
- Subedar Mohan Ram (20 JAT Regiment)
- Havildar Rohit Kumar (Dogra, Posthumous)
- Havildar Prakash Tamang (32 Rashtriya Rifles)
- Flight Lieutenant Aman Singh Hans
- Corporal Dabhi Sanjay Hiffabai Essa
- Vijayan Kutty G (Posthumous)
- Vikrant Kumar, Deputy Commandant (CRPF)
- Inspector Jeffrey Hmingchullo (CRPF)
Additional Gallantry awards
The Defence Ministry stated that President Murmu approved a total of 305 defence decorations for armed forces and other personnel. These include:
- 30 Param Vishisht Seva Medals
- Five Uttam Yudh Seva Medals
- 57 Ati Vishisht Seva Medals
- 10 Yudh Seva Medals
- 66 Sena Medals (Gallantry), including seven posthumously
- Two Nao Sena Medals (Gallantry)
- Eight Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry)
The awards also encompass recognitions for devotion to duty, including 43 Sena Medals, eight Nao Sena Medals, and 15 Vayu Sena Medals.
This year’s gallantry awards highlight the valor, dedication, and selfless service of India’s armed forces and central police personnel.'