New Delhi : On the eve of the 77th Republic Day, President of India Smt Droupadi Murmu has approved a series of gallantry and distinguished service awards for personnel of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), recognising exceptional leadership, operational excellence, and acts of courage in the line of duty.
The Ati Vishisht Seva Medal has been conferred upon Additional Director General Donny Michael, PTM, TM, for his outstanding contribution to strengthening the Indian Coast Guard’s operational readiness and maritime security framework. The Vishisht Seva Medal has been awarded to Deputy Inspector General K.S. Sitaram for distinguished service.
For exemplary leadership and sustained operational contribution, the President’s Tatrakshak Medal (Distinguished Service) has been approved for Inspector General Iqbal Singh Chauhan, TM, and Inspector General Datwinder Singh Saini, TM. In recognition of exceptional courage and lifesaving efforts, the Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak has been awarded to P/Nvk (ME) Saumyaranjan Behera.
The President has also approved the Tatrakshak Medal (Gallantry – Posthumous) for Late Commandant Rakesh Kumar Rana, Late Commandant (JG) Vipin Babu, and Late P/Nvk (RP) Karan Singh, honouring their supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation. The Tatrakshak Medal (Gallantry) has been awarded to Commandant (JG) Shailendra Singh Bisht, P/Nvk (RP) Gautam Yadav, and P/Nvk (RP) Banti Kumar for acts of bravery during operational duties.
Additionally, the Tatrakshak Medal (Meritorious Service) has been conferred upon DIG Vinod Kumar Parmar, DIG Arun Kumar Bhardwaj, DIG Sudhakar Patil, Commandant Indu P, and P/Adh (RO) Tapas Kumar Banerjee for their sustained and distinguished service. These awards underscore the Indian Coast Guard’s critical role in maritime law enforcement, coastal security, search and rescue operations, and safeguarding India’s maritime interests.