Five personnel of the Odisha Police have been selected to receive Gallantry Awards on the occasion of Independence Day 2026, recognising their courage and exemplary service.
The awardees are Sub-Inspector Manmath Kumar Mahapatra, Havildar Nirakar Bhue, and Commandos Santosh Gurung, Suman Pun and Suresh Chandra Puta.
The honours are part of the Independence Day 2026 Gallantry and Service Medals announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
The Medal for Gallantry (GM) is awarded for conspicuous acts of bravery, including saving lives and property, preventing crimes or apprehending criminals, while taking into account the risks involved in the discharge of official duties.
This year, a total of 301 Gallantry Medals have been announced for police and fire service personnel across the country. Of these, 272 have been awarded to police personnel and 29 to fire service personnel.
Among the 301 gallantry awardees, 197 personnel are from Left Wing Extremism-affected areas, 51 from Jammu & Kashmir, 12 from the North-East and 41 from other regions.
The recognition of the five Odisha Police personnel highlights their bravery and commitment to duty.
