Gallantry Awards in India | Famous Books for UPSC Exam (Summary & Tests) PDF Download

Param Vir Chakra

The Param Vir Chakra (PVC) is the highest military decoration in India awarded for acts of exceptional bravery in the presence of the enemy. It was established on 26th January 1950, and it can be awarded posthumously. The PVC is made of bronze and is in the form of a circular disc with a diameter of 3.8 cm. It is worn on the left chest with a plain purple-colored ribbon. The award carries a cash allowance, a monthly pension, and other benefits to the recipient.

Mahavir Chakra

The Mahavir Chakra (MVC) is the second highest military decoration in India and is awarded for acts of conspicuous gallantry in the presence of the enemy. It was established on 26th January 1950, and it can be awarded posthumously. The MVC is made of standard silver and is in the form of a five-pointed star with the chakra in the center and a peepal leaf on each arm. It is worn on the left chest with a purple-colored ribbon.

Vir Chakra

The Vir Chakra (VrC) is the third highest military decoration in India and is awarded for acts of bravery in the presence of the enemy. It was established on 26th January 1950, and it can be awarded posthumously. The VrC is made of standard silver and is in the form of a circular disc with a diameter of 3.8 cm. It is worn on the left chest with a purple-colored ribbon.

Ashok Chakra

The Ashok Chakra is a peacetime equivalent of the Param Vir Chakra and is awarded for acts of gallantry in the face of the enemy or for bravery in non-operational situations. It was established on 4th January 1952. The Ashok Chakra is made of gold gilt and is in the form of a circular disc with a diameter of 3.2 cm. It features a replica of the Ashoka Chakra on the obverse and a pattern on the reverse. It is worn on the left chest with a navy blue-colored ribbon.

Kirti Chakra

The Kirti Chakra is an Indian military decoration awarded for acts of bravery in the presence of the enemy or for similar brave acts during peacetime. It was established on 26th January 1952. The Kirti Chakra is made of silver and is in the form of a circular disc with a diameter of 3.6 cm. It is worn on the left chest with a green-colored ribbon.

Shaurya Chakra

The Shaurya Chakra is an Indian military decoration awarded for acts of gallantry other than those of actual conflict with the enemy. It was established on 4th January 1952. The Shaurya Chakra is made of silver and is in the form of a circular disc with a diameter of 3.6 cm. It is worn on the left chest with a blue-colored ribbon.