- On the eve of the 79th Independence Day, the President of India awarded seven Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medals (SYSM) to the senior leaders of Operation Sindoor, recognising their distinguished service of the most exceptional order during wartime operations.
- This is the highest wartime distinguished service decoration of India, instituted on 26 June 1980, and awarded for outstanding leadership, courage, and devotion in war, conflict, or hostilities.
- The Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal is conferred on all ranks of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, including personnel from the Territorial Army, Auxiliary and Reserve Forces, Nursing Officers, and other members of the Armed Forces’ Nursing Services.
- The decoration may also be awarded posthumously.
Features of the Medal:
- Design: Circular, 35 mm in diameter, made of gold gilt, suspended from a plain horizontal bar with standard fittings.
- Obverse: The State Emblem with the inscription “SARVOTTAM YUDH SEVA MEDAL” in English.
- Reverse: A five-pointed star.
- Ribbon: Golden colour with a central red vertical stripe dividing it into two equal parts.
- Bar Provision: If awarded again, a bar is attached to the riband, and a miniature insignia is added when the riband is worn alone.
- The conferring of the SYSM on the heroes of Operation Sindoor reaffirms the nation’s gratitude for their exceptional leadership and bravery, symbolising India’s recognition of supreme wartime service.