On the eve of Republic Day 2025, seven Jammu and Kashmir Police officers were honored with Gallantry Medals for their exemplary bravery in preventing a potential terrorist attack on the Amarnath Yatra. These officers played a critical role in averting a terror strike in June 2022, safeguarding countless lives during the annual pilgrimage to the holy shrine in the region.
The medal recipients included former Kashmir Zone Inspector General of Police Vijay Kumar, who had received valuable intelligence warning of a terror threat to the Amarnath Yatra. Alongside Kumar, Rakesh Balwal, the then Senior Superintendent of Police of Srinagar, and five other police personnel were commended for their heroic actions during a high-risk operation in which two terrorists were neutralized. The encounter took place after the police stopped a suspicious vehicle at Bemina on the outskirts of Srinagar, leading to a firefight. Notably, the operation was conducted without the assistance of the Army or the Central Reserve Police Force, highlighting the courage and skill of the local police team.
Kumar’s leadership and quick thinking in acting upon the intelligence input helped prevent what could have been a devastating attack during the Yatra. His distinguished career, marked by significant counter-terrorism efforts, also includes contributions in tackling anti-Maoist and law-and-order challenges both within Jammu and Kashmir and outside the region.
In addition to the Gallantry Medals, several other officers were also recognized for their exemplary service. Anand Jain and Nitish Kumar, additional directors general of police, received the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service. Ten officers were awarded the Medal for Meritorious Service for their dedication and excellence in law enforcement.
One of the most poignant moments in the awards ceremony was the posthumous recognition of Satish Kumar Raina, a selection-grade fireman, who was awarded the Gallantry Medal for sacrificing his life while performing his duties during a fire incident in Jammu’s Prem Nagar area in January 2023. His heroic act, which led to his tragic death, was celebrated as an outstanding example of service and bravery.
Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, congratulated the officers for their achievements, acknowledging their contributions to peace and security in the region. “Congratulations to police personnel and officers who have been conferred with the Medal for Gallantry, President’s Medal for Distinguished Service and Medal for Meritorious Service on the occasion of Republic Day 2025,” Sinha wrote in a post on social media. He also honored the memory of Raina, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
The Gallantry Medal recognizes rare acts of bravery, particularly in saving lives, preventing crimes, or apprehending criminals, often at great personal risk. The President’s Medal for Distinguished Service is awarded for exceptional service in the police force, while the Medal for Meritorious Service acknowledges the valuable contributions made by officers in their daily duties.
These awards are a testament to the bravery, dedication, and sacrifice made by the Jammu and Kashmir Police officers, whose efforts continue to protect and serve the people of the region in the face of significant challenges.
Sources By Agencies