Question

Which of the following is a non-gallantry award?

• A. Kirti Chakra
• B. Vayu Sena Medal
• C. Shaurya Chakra
• D. Vishisht Seva Medal

Hint:

To remember the distinction: Chakra awards (Param Vir, Maha Vir, Vir, Ashoka, Kirti, Shaurya) are always associated with physical bravery and gallantry. Seva awards (Param Vishisht Seva, Ati Vishisht Seva, Vishisht Seva) are awarded for non-combat, administrative, and operational excellence.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding Award Classifications in the Indian Armed Forces:
Awards in the Indian Armed Forces are broadly categorized into two major divisions:
• Gallantry Awards: Awarded for conspicuous acts of bravery, valor, or self-sacrifice. These are further divided into wartime gallantry (e.g., Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, Vir Chakra) and peacetime gallantry (e.g., Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra, Shaurya Chakra).
• Non-Gallantry Distinguished Service Awards: Awarded to recognize exceptionally distinguished service, devotion to duty, or meritorious work of a high order during peace or war, without the direct element of physical combat/bravery in the face of the enemy.

Step 2: Evaluating the Peacetime Gallantry Awards:

• Kirti Chakra (A): India's second-highest peacetime gallantry award. It is strictly a gallantry decoration.
• Shaurya Chakra (C): India's third-highest peacetime gallantry award. It is also strictly a gallantry decoration.

Step 3: Evaluating Service Medals:

• Vayu Sena Medal (B): Though it can be awarded for distinguished service, it has a specific Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) division awarded to Air Force personnel for individual acts of exceptional courage in flight.
• Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) (D): This medal is awarded to all ranks of the Armed Forces to recognize “distinguished service of a high order.” It is exclusively a non-gallantry decoration. Thus, option (D) is the correct answer.