Introduction:-
The first three wartime gallantry awards were Param Vir Chakra, Mahavir Chakra, Vir Chakra and peacetime gallantry awards were Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra, Shaurya Chakra. These were instituted by the Government of India on 26 January 1950, with effect from 15 August 1947. After this, in the year 1952 three other gallantry awards – Ashoka Chakra Class 1, Ashoka Chakra Class 2, Ashoka Chakra Class 3, were established, which were considered effective from August 15, 1947. In January 1967, these awards were renamed as Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra and Shaurya Chakra respectively.
Gallantry Awards:-
Wartime –
Param Vir Chakra:- It is India’s highest military decoration, awarded for display of conspicuous acts of gallantry during warfare. Param Vir Chakra translates as the Wheel of the ultimate brave and the award is granted for most conspicuous bravery in the presence of the enemy. Major Somnath Sharma was the first recipients of the Param Vir Chakra.
Mahavir Chakra:- It is the second highest gallantry award for acts of conspicuous gallantry in the presence of the enemy. After the Param Vir Chakra is awarded for acts of conspicuous gallantry in the presence of the enemy, whether on land, at sea or in the air. The medal may be awarded posthumously.
Veer Chakra:- It is the country’s third highest wartime gallantry award presented for acts of gallantry on the battlefield, on land or in the air or at sea. After the Param Vir Chakra and the Mahavir Chakra.
Peacetime-
Ashoka Chakra:- It is the highest military award for gallantry, courageous action or sacrifice during peace time. The Ashoka Chakra is an Indian Symbol which is a depiction of the Dharmachakra. It is so called because it appears on a number of edicts of Ashoka the great, most prominent among which is the lion capital of Ashoka.
Kirti Chakra:- It is the second highest gallantry award and is given for self sacrifice during peace time. It may be awarded to civilians as well as military personnel. It is the peacetime equivalent of the Mahavir Chakra.
Shaurya Chakra:- It is awarded to Armed Forces personnel for exceptional bravery. It may be awarded to civilians as well as military personnel. It is third in order of precedence of peacetime gallantry awards.
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