On Wednesday, August 14, 2024, the government announced the awarding of service medals to 1,037 police personnel from various Central and State forces, just before Independence Day.
The Union Home Ministry stated that 214 individuals will receive bravery medals, including the President’s Medal for Gallantry (PMG) and the Medal for Gallantry (GM). Among the GM recipients are four firefighters and one civil defense personnel.
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has been awarded the most bravery medals, with a total of 52. The Jammu and Kashmir Police received 31 medals, while 17 each were given to police personnel from Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra, 15 from Chhattisgarh, and 12 from Madhya Pradesh.
The highest honor, the President’s Medal for Gallantry (PMG), has been awarded to Telangana Police Head Constable Chaduvu Yadaiah for his “rare gallantry” in capturing two notorious chain snatchers and arms traffickers on July 25, 2022. Despite being viciously attacked and repeatedly stabbed by the criminals, Yadaiah maintained his hold on them. He sustained severe injuries and was hospitalized for 17 days, as noted in the home ministry statement.
The announcement also includes 94 President’s Police Medals for Distinguished Service and 729 Medals for Meritorious Service.
These awards are presented twice a year, with the second announcement occurring on Republic Day.
The President’s Police Medal for Gallantry (PPMG) and the President’s Medal for Gallantry (PMG) are given for exceptional bravery in saving lives and property, preventing crime, or apprehending criminals.
The President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service recognizes outstanding achievements in police service, while the Police Medal for Meritorious Service honors valuable service marked by resourcefulness and dedication.
