Major Tarun Vasudevan among 19 to receive Shaurya Chakra; nine awarded Kirti Chakra

NEW DELHI: President Droupadi Murmu has announced gallantry and other defence awards for armed forces and police personnel on the eve of Independence Day. Nine personnel will receive the Kirti Chakra, including seven posthumously, while 19 personnel will be honoured with the Shaurya Chakra.

Malayali Army officer Major Tarun Vasudevan is among those selected for the Shaurya Chakra. He is being honoured for his courageous service during an operation in Jammu and Kashmir that foiled an infiltration attempt by terrorists.

Lieutenant Colonel Maneo Francis will receive the Kirti Chakra for his bravery in responding to a terrorist attack in Manipur. Havildar Gajendra Singh, who was killed in the Kishtwar encounter, will also be awarded the Kirti Chakra posthumously. Six Jammu and Kashmir Police personnel who were killed in the Kathua encounter will also receive the Kirti Chakra for their bravery.

The gallantry awards were announced as part of the Independence Day honours. In her Independence Day eve address, President Droupadi Murmu said India's youth are talented and committed and that the government is ensuring transparency in public examinations. She said efforts to curb undesirable practices in public examinations have given young people greater confidence and motivation. She also called on citizens to contribute to nation-building.