J&K Police leads nation in Gallantry Medals on Independence Day 2025

Srinagar, Aug 14: Jammu and Kashmir Police has once again emerged as the leading force in the country in terms of gallantry awards, securing a record 127 Gallantry Medals on the occasion of Independence Day 2025.

Among the awardees, Inspector General of Police (Security) Sujit Kumar and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Srinagar, Dr. G.V. Sundeep Chakravarthy, have been honoured with prestigious gallantry medals for their exemplary leadership, professionalism, and fearless service in one of India’s most sensitive regions.

The announcement was made by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Thursday, which revealed that J&K Police personnel accounted for the highest number of recipients across the country. Out of a total of 233 Gallantry Medals awarded nationwide, 152 medals went to personnel operating in Jammu and Kashmir, with J&K Police alone claiming 127 of them — a staggering figure that underscores the perilous and high-stakes environment in which the force operates.

Other notable recipients from J&K Police include Sajad Shah, SSP Awantipora, Iftikhar Talib, SSP Sopore, Shabir Ahmad Khan, SP South Srinagar, Hilal Khalid Bhat, SP Hazratbal.

The late DySP Humayun Muzamil Bhat, who was killed during a fierce encounter in Kokernag, has been posthumously honoured for his ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

Following J&K Police in the tally were the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) with 20 gallantry awards, Border Security Force (BSF) with 16, Uttar Pradesh Police with 17, and Chhattisgarh Police with 14.

Nationwide, a total of 1,090 personnel across police, fire services, Home Guard & Civil Defence, and Correctional Services were decorated this year. This includes 233 Gallantry Medals (GM), 99 President’s Medals for Distinguished Service (PSM) and 758 Medals for Meritorious Service (MSM).