Defence Investiture Ceremony 2025: President Murmu Confers 92 Distinguished Service Awards
On June 4, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu presided over the Defence Investiture Ceremony (Phase-II) at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, where she conferred 92 Distinguished Service Decorations to personnel from the Indian Armed Forces, Indian Coast Guard (ICG), and the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). The awards included:
- 30 Param Vishisht Seva Medals (PVSMs)
- 5 Uttam Yudh Seva Medals (UYSMs)
- 57 Ati Vishisht Seva Medals (AVSMs)
These honors were bestowed upon individuals for their exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to national security.
Honoring Excellence in Service
The ceremony was attended by Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and other senior officials. The awards recognized a diverse range of contributions across various branches and roles, including combat, logistics, engineering, and medical support. Notable recipients included:
- Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar (Army)
- Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh (Navy)
- Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari (Air Force)
- Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai (Army)
- Air Marshal Pankaj Mohan Sinha (Retd) (Air Force)
- Lt Gen Pushpendra Pal Singh (Army)
- Vice Admiral Lochan Singh Pathania (Navy)
- Air Marshal V Rajasekhar (Air Force)
- DG Paramesh Sivamani (ICG)
These individuals were honored for their outstanding contributions to India’s defense capabilities and their unwavering commitment to duty.
Significance of the Awards
The conferment of these medals underscores the nation’s recognition of the selfless service and sacrifices made by its defense personnel. It highlights the government’s commitment to honoring those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty.
Why This News Is Important
Recognition of Distinguished Service
The Defence Investiture Ceremony serves as a platform to acknowledge the exemplary contributions of personnel from the Indian Armed Forces, Indian Coast Guard, and Border Roads Organisation. By conferring 92 Distinguished Service Decorations, the ceremony highlights the importance of recognizing and honoring those who have demonstrated exceptional service in various capacities.
Encouragement for Future Generations
Such recognitions inspire current and future generations of defense personnel to strive for excellence in their respective fields. The acknowledgment of their efforts not only boosts morale but also sets a benchmark for others to emulate, fostering a culture of dedication and commitment within the defense services.
Strengthening National Security
The awards reflect the nation’s appreciation for the role played by its defense personnel in ensuring national security. By honoring those who have contributed significantly to the defense sector, the ceremony underscores the importance of a well-equipped and motivated defense force in maintaining the country’s sovereignty and peace.
Historical Context
The Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) was instituted in 1960 and is awarded for exceptional service of the most distinguished order to officers of all ranks in the Indian Armed Forces. The Uttam Yudh Seva Medal (UYSM) recognizes distinguished service during war, conflict, or hostilities, while the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) is conferred for high-order performance in peacetime roles. These medals serve as a testament to the dedication and sacrifices of India’s defense personnel.
Key Takeaways from the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2025
| S.No | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | President Droupadi Murmu conferred 92 Distinguished Service Decorations. |
| 2 | Awards included 30 PVSMs, 5 UYSMs, and 57 AVSMs for exceptional service. |
| 3 | Recipients hailed from the Army, Navy, Air Force, ICG, and BRO. |
| 4 | Ceremony attended by Vice President and Defence Minister. |
| 5 | Recognitions underscore commitment to national security and defense excellence. |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who presided over the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2025?
President Droupadi Murmu presided over the ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi.
2. How many Distinguished Service Awards were conferred during the ceremony?
A total of 92 awards were conferred, including PVSMs, UYSMs, and AVSMs.
3. What are the different types of medals awarded at the ceremony?
The awards included Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), Uttam Yudh Seva Medal (UYSM), and Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM).
4. Which organizations’ personnel were honored at the ceremony?
Personnel from the Indian Armed Forces, Indian Coast Guard (ICG), and Border Roads Organisation (BRO) were honored.
5. What is the significance of the Param Vishisht Seva Medal?
The PVSM is awarded for exceptional service of the most distinguished order to officers in the Indian Armed Forces.
6. Who were some notable recipients of the awards?
Notable recipients included Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar, Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh, Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari, among others.
7. Why are these awards important for defense personnel?
They recognize outstanding leadership, dedication, and contributions to national security, boosting morale and inspiring others.
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