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ASHOKA CHAKRA: INDIA’S HIGHEST PEACETIME MILITARY DECORATION

What is the Ashoka Chakra?

The Ashoka Chakra is India’s highest peacetime military decoration, awarded for valour, courageous action or self-sacrifice away from the battlefield. It is the peacetime equivalent of the Param Vir Chakra.

Key facts

Award criteria: The Ashoka Chakra recognises exceptional bravery or self-sacrifice in non-combat situations.

Recipients: As of 2021, the medal has been awarded to 86 individuals, including 68 posthumous recipients.

Design: The medal features the chakra (wheel) of Ashoka surrounded by a lotus wreath.

History

The Ashoka Chakra was established on January 4, 1952, as the “Ashoka Chakra, Class I”.

In 1967, the decoration was removed from the class-based system and renamed as the Ashoka Chakra.

Notable aspects

The Ashoka Chakra can be awarded to both military and civilian personnel.

Recipients receive a monthly stipend.

Did you know?

The Ashoka Chakra’s design features a blank centre, intended for engraving details of the award.