The Param Vir Chakra‍ (PVC) is the⁤ highest military decoration awarded for showing the highest ‍degree of valour in the face of the enemy in India. It⁤ is the ‍equivalent of the Medal of Honor ⁤in the⁤ United States and the Victoria Cross in the ​United Kingdom. It ‌ holds a special place in Indian military history and is ⁣considered to be one of the most prestigious and coveted awards for gallantry.

The PVC was established on 26th January 1950, by the ​President of India,‌ Dr Rajendra Prasad, with an aim to recognize​ the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers who go beyond the call of duty to protect their​ nation’s integrity and sovereignty. ​Since its inception, only 21 bravehearts have been⁢ decorated with this honour,⁣ out ​of which 14 were posthumous awards.

Selection Process

The PVC is​ awarded for conspicuous bravery, pre-eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice in the presence of the ​enemy, whether on land, at sea, or in the air. The selection process is rigorous and only the most exceptional acts of bravery are considered. The recommendations for‌ the award are‍ made by the ⁢respective Service Headquarters and ‌then forward‍ to the Ministry of Defence ‍for further review and approval by the President of India.

To ensure the sanctity of this honour, only a direct fight ​against the enemy in the presence of the braveheart’s unit or formation commander is considered. Also,‍ the act must ⁢be of such a nature that would not be out of place ⁣if mentioned ‌in dispatches for gallantry in the face of⁢ the⁢ enemy. This makes the PVC award extremely rare and ‍difficult to obtain, adding to its ⁤prestige.

Notable Awardees

Each award ‌of the Param​ Vir Chakra has its own unique story that is etched in the annals of Indian military history. ‍Some of the notable awardees include Major Somnath Sharma, who was the first recipient of the ⁤PVC ⁣for‍ his bravery during the Indo-Pak War of 1947-48. Subedar ⁤Major Bana Singh was awarded the PVC for​ his outstanding valour in the Siachen Glacier⁤ during Operation Rajiv, making him the only PVC awardee from the Indian Army⁢ for this conflict.

In the naval wing, Lieutenant ​Commander Abhilash Tomy was honoured with the PVC for surviving a catastrophic accident while circumnavigating⁣ the globe solo, making him the first Indian to do ​so. The Air Force also has its share of​ bravehearts,‌ including Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh ‍Sekhon, who is⁢ the only ⁤PVC ‍awardee from the Indian Air Force for the Indo-Pak War ⁢of⁤ 1971.

Legacy

The Param Vir Chakra is not⁣ just an award, it is a symbol of courage, bravery and patriotism. It signifies the spirit of ⁤selfless service and sacrifice that is ingrained in⁤ the Indian military ethos. The stories⁣ of the PVC⁤ awardees inspire generations of​ soldiers to serve their nation with honour and dignity. The families of the recipients are held in high regard and continue to inspire the​ youth of the country with their tales‌ of bravery and⁣ sacrifice.

In conclusion, the Param Vir Chakra is not just a medal, ‌it is the⁣ epitome of bravery and the highest form of recognition ​for the courageous actions of Indian soldiers. It stands as ‌a symbol of ⁤pride and honour for the nation, and⁤ continues to inspire the future generations to serve their country with the same courage and valour.