President Murmu Approves Gallantry and Defence Awards on Eve of 76th Republic Day

New Delhi: On the eve of India’s 76th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu approved a series of prestigious gallantry and defence awards to 93 Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces personnel, including 11 posthumous honors. The Defence Ministry announced the awards, which include two Kirti Chakras (one posthumous), 14 Shaurya Chakras (three posthumous), and numerous medals recognizing exceptional bravery and devotion to duty.

Additionally, the President approved 305 defence decorations, including 30 Param Vishisht Seva Medals, five Uttam Yudh Seva Medals, 57 Ati Vishisht Seva Medals, and 132 Vishisht Seva Medals, among others. These awards highlight the unwavering commitment and sacrifices made by the Armed Forces personnel to safeguard the nation.

The Republic Day, celebrated on January 26 every year, marks the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950, a milestone in the country’s journey toward self-governance after gaining independence in 1947.

In her address to the nation on the eve of Republic Day, President Murmu praised the collective efforts of farmers, labourers, scientists, and the youth in driving India’s progress. She highlighted the contributions of farmers in achieving self-sufficiency in food production and lauded labourers for transforming the country’s infrastructure and manufacturing sectors.

“Thanks to their sterling efforts, India’s economy today influences global economic trends,” she said, emphasizing the nation’s growing global stature.

President Murmu also celebrated India’s advancements in space technology, applauding the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for its recent success in a space docking experiment, which positioned India as the fourth country globally to achieve such a feat.

The President underscored the critical role of youth, particularly young women, in shaping the future of the nation. “We are marching towards the future, holding our heads high. The key to our future is our youth, especially the young women. Their dreams are moulding the India of tomorrow,” she remarked.

Highlighting the success of environmental campaigns, she mentioned the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative, launched on World Environment Day last year, which surpassed its target of planting 80 crore seedlings ahead of schedule.

Concluding her address, President Murmu urged the nation to uphold the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, emphasizing truth, non-violence, and the balance between rights and duties as essential values for building a just and inclusive society.