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PARAM VIR CHAKRA: INDIA’S HIGHEST MILITARY HONOUR

What is the Param Vir Chakra?

The Param Vir Chakra (PVC) is India’s highest military decoration, awarded for displaying distinguished acts of valour during wartime. It translates to the “Wheel of the Ultimate Brave” and is granted for “most conspicuous bravery in the presence of the enemy”.

Key facts:

Award criteria: The PVC recognises exceptional bravery in the face of the enemy.

Recipients: As of 2018, the medal has been awarded 21 times, with 14 posthumous awards.

Design: The medal features the National Emblem of India surrounded by four vajras (the weapon of Indra) on a bronze disc.

History:

The PVC was established on January 26, 1950, with retroactive effect from August 15, 1947.

The award was designed by Savitri Khanolkar, wife of an Indian Army officer.

Notable recipients:

Major Somnath Sharma was the first recipient of the PVC.

Comparison:

The PVC is equivalent to the Victoria Cross in the UK and the Medal of Honour in the US.

Did you know?

The PVC has a unique design, symbolising the sacrifice of Rishi Dadhichi, who gave his bones to make the vajra to kill the demon Vritra.