7 Military Officers to Be Honoured for Operation Sindoor on Independence Day

NEW DELHI – In a rare and historic move, four Indian Air Force (IAF) officers will be awarded the prestigious Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal on India’s Independence Day, sources confirmed. This marks the first time since the Kargil War that the IAF has received this wartime distinction, underscoring the significance of Operation Sindoor. Also set to be honoured are two army officers and one navy officer, bringing the total to seven top military personnel recognised for exceptional service.

What is the Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal?
Instituted in 1980, the Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal is India’s highest wartime distinguished service decoration, awarded for “the most exceptional order” of operational service—combining prestige with a wartime context. It stands as the conflict equivalent of the peacetime Param Vishisht Seva Medal.

Operation Sindoor: A Military Turning Point

Operation Sindoor, conducted between 7 and 10 May, was India’s robust military response to the Pahalgam terror attack on 22 April, which left 26 tourists dead. The operation involved targeted strikes on terrorist and military installations across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. According to IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, India shot down five Pakistani fighter jets and one large military aircraft, marking it as the nation’s most significant surface-to-air combat success.

Beyond honours for the armed forces, the Border Security Force (BSF) will also be recognised: 16 personnel will receive gallantry medals for “conspicuous bravery and unmatched valour” during Operation Sindoor, among the 1,090 service medals being awarded this Independence Day.

As the tri-service awards unfold, the nation pays tribute to the valour and precision demonstrated by India’s defenders during one of its most decisive military operations.