a day ago
Centre announces gallantry awards for 36 air warriors of Operation Sindoor
The Narendra Modi government on Thursday announced gallantry awards for 36 air warriors who played crucial roles in Operation Sindoor. As part of the recognition for their bravery, nine Indian Air Force officers — including fighter pilots who struck terror group headquarters in Muridke and Bahawalpur — were awarded the Vir Chakra, India's third-highest wartime gallantry was awarded the Shaurya Chakra. The Shaurya Chakra is awarded for courageous action or self-sacrifice while not directly engaged with the enemy. It ranks after the Ashoka Chakra and the Kirti Chakra. 26 others were awarded with the Vayu Sena the recipients of the Vir Chakra are Group Captains R S Sidhu, Manish Arora, Animesh Patni, and Kunal Kalra. Wing Commander Joy Chandra, Squadron Leaders Sarthak Kumar, Siddhant Singh, Rizwan Malik, and Flight Lieutenant A S Thakur were also honoured, reflecting the diversity of roles involved in achieving operational success.
Operation Sindoor, which was launched on May 7, was in direct response to the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. Indian forces targeted nine terrorist facilities deep within Pakistani territory, resulting in over 100 terrorist casualties. This retaliatory action demonstrated India's military resolve and strategic announcement also marks the first-ever conferment of the 'Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal' to Air Force officers. This prestigious accolade, along with other high military decorations, underscores the exceptional contributions of officers across the Army, Navy, and Air Force in the operation saw a significant military exchange, with Pakistan launching drone strikes in retaliation. However, Indian air defence systems effectively countered these threats, leading to further strikes on 11 key military and radar sites in Pakistan by Indian forces on 10 May. This escalation eventually led Pakistan to seek a ceasefire Force Chief Air Marshal A P Singh revealed that during the operation, Indian forces downed six Pakistani jets and inflicted damage on several F-16 aircraft. This achievement not only highlights the tactical precision of Indian pilots but also underscores their readiness in a volatile conflict the gallantry awards serve as a testament to the courage and skill of the Indian Air Force personnel, whose dedication and bravery were instrumental in the successful execution of Operation Sindoor. The recognition comes as India prepares to celebrate Independence Day, marking a moment of national pride.- EndsTune InMust Watch
