New Delhi: India will honour senior military leadership with the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) on the 77th Republic Day, recognising outstanding and distinguished service at the highest levels of command.
According to an official update shared by , three top officers from the Indian Armed Forces will receive the prestigious decoration.
The awardees include Western Naval Commander Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Director General Army Air Defence Lieutenant General Sumer Ivan D’Cunha, and Additional Secretary, Department of Military Affairs, Vice Admiral Atul Anand. The PVSM is among India’s most respected peacetime gallantry and service awards.
Government Announcement Ahead of Republic Day 2026
The announcement comes as part of the Republic Day honours list for 2026. These awards are conferred by the President of India to recognise exceptional leadership, operational excellence, and long-term contributions to national security.
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The PVSM is awarded to officers who have demonstrated exemplary service during peacetime, especially in roles involving strategic decision-making, force readiness, and national defence planning.
About the Param Vishisht Sewa Medal Awardee
Here are the following Param Vishisht Sewa Medal awardee;
Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan – Western Naval Commander
Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan currently serves as the Western Naval Commander, one of the most critical operational commands of the Indian Navy.
As Western Naval Commander, he oversees maritime security along India’s western seaboard, including the Arabian Sea. His responsibilities include fleet operations, coastal defence, maritime surveillance, and coordination with other defence services.
Under his leadership, the Western Naval Command has focused on operational preparedness, joint exercises, and safeguarding India’s maritime trade routes.
Lieutenant General Sumer Ivan D’Cunha – Director General, Army Air Defence
Lieutenant General Sumer Ivan D’Cunha is the Director General of Army Air Defence, a key combat support arm of the Indian Army.
In this role, he is responsible for protecting Indian military formations and critical assets from aerial threats, including aircraft, drones, and missiles. His leadership has been vital in strengthening India’s air defence preparedness amid evolving regional security challenges.
The Army Air Defence plays a crucial role in modern warfare, and Lt Gen D’Cunha’s contribution has significantly enhanced operational capability and readiness.
Vice Admiral Atul Anand – Additional Secretary, Department of Military Affairs
Vice Admiral Atul Anand serves as the Additional Secretary in the Department of Military Affairs (DMA), under the Ministry of Defence.
The DMA is central to India’s defence reforms, jointness among the armed forces, and long-term capability development. Vice Admiral Anand has been closely involved in policy formulation, integration of the services, and strategic planning.
His work has contributed to strengthening civil-military coordination and improving efficiency in defence administration.
What is Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM)
The Param Vishisht Seva Medal is awarded for “distinguished service of the most exceptional order” during peacetime.
It is typically conferred on senior officers of the rank of Lieutenant General, Vice Admiral, Air Marshal, and above.
The medal recognises sustained excellence, leadership, and contribution to national security rather than a single act.
Receiving the PVSM is considered a major professional honour within the Indian Armed Forces.
