Understanding Medal Ribbons in the Indian Armed Forces

 Have you ever noticed the colorful ribbons on the uniforms of Indian Army officers? These ribbons, which resemble barcodes, represent medals and honors awarded to personnel for their bravery, distinguished service, and operational excellence. Some officers have more ribbons than others—so what do they signify, and who can wear them?

In this blog, we will break down the significance of these ribbons, their types, and what each one represents. Let’s get started!

1. Why Are Medal Ribbons Worn?

Since wearing physical medals on a daily basis is not practical, medal ribbons serve as a replacement for formal occasions. Officers and soldiers wear these ribbons to display their awards and honors without the need to carry heavy medals.

Ribbon Size & Placement

• The standard length of a medal ribbon varies between 20mm, 30mm, and 40mm.
• Ribbons are worn on the left side of the chest in a prescribed order, following the President’s Order of Precedence.

2. Gallantry Awards: Bravery in War & Peace

Gallantry awards in India are divided into wartime and peacetime bravery awards. These medals are among the most prestigious and are always worn at the top of the ribbon bar.

A. Wartime Gallantry Awards

These are given for exceptional courage in war and battlefield operations:

1. Param Vir Chakra (PVC) – The highest military honor, awarded for supreme bravery in battle. The ribbon is purple in color.
2. Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) – The second-highest wartime gallantry award, with a golden and white ribbon.
3. Vir Chakra (VrC) – Awarded for distinguished acts of bravery, featuring an orange and grey ribbon.

B. Peacetime Gallantry Awards

These are awarded for acts of valor in non-combat situations:

1. Ashoka Chakra – The highest peacetime bravery award, with a green and orange ribbon.
2. Kirti Chakra – The second-highest peacetime award, with a green and white ribbon.
3. Shaurya Chakra – The third-highest, featuring a green and yellow ribbon.

3. Distinguished Service Medals

These awards recognize officers for their exceptional service to the nation in both combat and non-combat roles.

1. Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) – Highest distinguished service award, featuring a blue and yellow ribbon.
2. Uttam Yudh Seva Medal (UYSM) – Given for distinguished service during war, with a red and white ribbon.
3. Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) – Awarded for outstanding service, featuring a blue and white ribbon.
4. Yudh Seva Medal (YSM) – Given for distinguished service in war, with a yellow and red ribbon.
5. Sena Medal (SM), Nao Sena Medal (NM), Vayu Sena Medal (VM) – Awarded for exceptional service in the Army, Navy, and Air Force respectively.

4. Campaign & Special Operation Medals

These medals are awarded to personnel who have participated in specific military operations or served in difficult terrains.

A. General Service Medals

• Sainya Seva Medal – Awarded for service in extreme conditions like Jammu & Kashmir, the Himalayas, Assam, Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
• Special Service Medal – Given for participation in counter-insurgency and special operations.

B. Operation-Specific Medals

• Operation Vijay Medal – Awarded for service in Kargil War, 1999.
• Siachen Glacier Medal – Given to those who have served in the world’s highest battlefield.
• Operation Parakram Medal – For service during India-Pakistan standoff (2001-2002).

5. Long Service & Conduct Medals

These medals recognize years of dedicated service in the armed forces.

1. Long Service & Good Conduct Medal – For completing 20+ years of service.
2. 9 Years Service Medal – Given to those who have served nine or more years.
3. 30 Years Service Medal – For officers and soldiers with 30+ years of service.
4. Territorial Army Decoration & Medal – Awarded to members of the Territorial Army for long service.

6. Foreign & United Nations Medals

The Videsh Seva Medal is given to personnel who have served in international peacekeeping missions or represented India abroad.

Conclusion

Medal ribbons are not just colorful decorations; they symbolize the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of the men and women in the Indian Armed Forces. From wartime bravery to peacetime service, each ribbon tells a story of honor and valor.

💬 Did you find this information useful? Share this with your friends and let us know in the comments!
🚀 Jai Hind!