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Republic Day 2026: The Central Government of India has officially announced the recipients of gallantry and service medals for Republic Day 2026, honouring the exceptional courage, commitment, and professionalism of personnel from police forces, fire services, Home Guards, Civil Defence, and correctional services across the country. In total, 982 individuals have been selected for these prestigious national honours, reflecting the scale and diversity of contributions made toward internal security, public safety, and national resilience.

Overall Distribution of Medals

Out of the 982 medals declared this year, 125 have been awarded for gallantry, 101 for distinguished service, and 756 for meritorious service. This broad distribution highlights not only acts of bravery performed under extreme conditions but also long-term dedication and excellence in service. The awards aim to acknowledge both extraordinary one-time actions and sustained professional performance over the years.

Gallantry Medals and Regional Contributions

Among the 125 gallantry medals, a significant number were awarded to personnel serving in high-risk and sensitive regions. Thirty-five recipients were from areas affected by Left Wing Extremism, while 45 awards went to personnel operating in the Jammu and Kashmir region. Five medals were given to those serving in the north-eastern states, and 40 recipients came from other parts of the country. These figures underline the challenging environments in which many of the awardees carried out their duties.

Police and Fire Services Lead Gallantry Awards

The majority of gallantry medals were conferred upon police personnel, with 121 officers receiving recognition for their brave actions. In addition, four members of the fire services were honoured for acts of courage involving the protection of life and property. Gallantry medals are awarded for rare and conspicuous acts of bravery, often performed at great personal risk, including saving lives, preventing serious crimes, or apprehending dangerous criminals.

President’s Medals for Distinguished Service

A total of 101 President’s Medals for Distinguished Service were announced this year. Of these, 89 were awarded to police personnel, highlighting their leadership and exemplary service records. Five medals went to fire service officials, three to members of Civil Defence and Home Guard services, and four to correctional service officers. This category recognises officers who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, integrity, and effectiveness throughout their careers.

Medals for Meritorious Service

The largest category, Medals for Meritorious Service, saw 756 recipients. Police services accounted for 664 of these awards, followed by 34 for fire services, 33 for Civil Defence and Home Guard personnel, and 25 for correctional services. These medals are granted for valuable service marked by resourcefulness, professionalism, and unwavering devotion to duty over an extended period.

Recognition of Central Armed Police Forces

Among central armed police forces and allied organisations, the Central Reserve Police Force emerged as the most decorated, receiving 12 gallantry medals, five President’s Medals for Distinguished Service, and 57 Medals for Meritorious Service. The Border Security Force followed with five distinguished service medals and 46 meritorious service awards. Other notable recipients included the Central Industrial Security Force, Assam Rifles, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, and Sashastra Seema Bal, each receiving multiple honours for their contributions to national security.

Intelligence and Investigation Agencies Honoured

Key intelligence and investigative agencies also featured prominently in the awards list. The Intelligence Bureau received nine distinguished service medals and 26 meritorious service medals, while the Central Bureau of Investigation was awarded six and 25 respectively. Additional honours were given to personnel from the National Security Guard, Railway Protection Force, National Crime Records Bureau, Bureau of Police Research and Development, and the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs.

State-Level Achievements

At the state level, Uttar Pradesh led the tally with 18 gallantry medals, four distinguished service medals, and 68 meritorious service awards. Maharashtra followed with 31 gallantry medals, four distinguished service medals, and 40 meritorious service awards. Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Bihar, Odisha, and Manipur also recorded strong representation, particularly in gallantry categories. Several other states demonstrated consistent excellence through multiple awards for sustained service and dedication.

Acknowledging Service and Sacrifice

The Republic Day 2026 honours serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made daily by security and emergency personnel across India. These awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also reinforce the importance of professionalism, courage, and commitment in maintaining public order and national security.