On the eve of the 77th Republic Day, the President’s Medals have been announced for police personnel across the country, with Maharashtra accounting for a significant share of the honours. A total of 75 officers and personnel from the Maharashtra Police have been selected this year, reflecting recognition across gallantry, distinguished service, and meritorious service categories.
Among the recipients, 12 officers from the Mumbai Police have been included, underscoring the contribution of the city’s senior leadership and specialised departments. Senior officials such as Additional Commissioner of Police Mahesh Patil and Additional Commissioner of Police Rajiv Jain have been honoured, along with Deputy Commissioners Balkrishna Yadav and Purushottam Karad. Assistant Commissioners Mahesh Tavde and Cyrus Irani have also been recognised for their service. These awards have been conferred in acknowledgment of leadership, administrative excellence, and sustained professional commitment.
A major highlight of this year’s announcements has been the conferring of Gallantry Medals. All 31 gallantry awards allocated to Maharashtra have been awarded to police personnel from Gadchiroli district. These medals have been granted in recognition of exceptional courage displayed during anti-Naxal operations carried out in one of the country’s most challenging internal security environments. The concentration of gallantry awards in a single district reflects the intensity and risk associated with ongoing operations in the region.
In a solemn acknowledgment of sacrifice, two Gallantry Medals have been awarded posthumously. These honours have been conferred to recognise personnel who laid down their lives while performing their duties, reinforcing the role of the awards as both recognition and remembrance. At the national level, it has been announced that 874 police personnel will receive the President’s Medals this year. These honours extend beyond the police force to include fire services, home guards and correctional services, reinforcing the broader framework of public safety and internal security. Maharashtra’s allocation includes four medals for Distinguished Service and 40 medals for Meritorious Service.
The President’s Medal for Meritorious Service has been awarded to officers across ranks and departments, recognising long-term dedication, consistency, and professional integrity. These awards have been positioned as an acknowledgment of sustained contribution rather than single acts, highlighting the importance of institutional commitment within policing.
Share
Tweet
