In recognition of extraordinary courage during ‘Operation Sindoor’ against Pakistan, the Government of India has announced gallantry awards for 16 Border Security Force (BSF) personnel. These soldiers displayed unmatched determination—destroying enemy surveillance cameras, neutralising drone threats, and securing the nation’s western front. BSF, which guards the 2,290-kilometre India-Pakistan border, hailed them as examples of true ‘border sentinels’.
For their exceptional leadership during the operation, four senior Indian Air Force (IAF) officers—Vice Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Naranadeshwar Tiwari, Western Air Commander Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra, DG Air Operations Air Marshal Awadhesh Bharti, and one other officer—will receive the Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal. Additionally, 13 IAF officers, including Air Vice Marshal Joseph Suares, AVM Prajwal Singh, and Air Commodore Ashok Raj Thakur, will be honoured with the Yudh Seva Medal for executing precision strikes and defending Indian airspace.
A total of 26 IAF officers and airmen will receive the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) for their roles in missions targeting enemy installations inside Pakistan, as well as operating S-400 and other advanced air defence systems that foiled all planned attacks on Indian soil.
In a significant recognition of wartime bravery, nine IAF fighter pilots—who struck terrorist group headquarters in Muridke and Bahawalpur and destroyed Pakistani military bases—will be awarded the Vir Chakra, the nation’s third-highest wartime gallantry medal. During the operation, the IAF also downed at least six Pakistani aircraft.
In addition, 21 CBI officers will be honoured with the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service and the Police Medal for Meritorious Service for their exemplary contributions.
