The Hon’ble Raksha Mantri Shri Manohar Parrikar today awarded gallantry and meritorious service medals to the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) personnel at an impressive investiture ceremony held in the National Stadium Complex, New Delhi. Senior officers of the Ministry of Defence and the Indian Coast Guard along with their families also graced the occasion.
 

The award of medals are a recognition to the selfless devotion , exemplary courage and acts of valour under extreme conditions to the officers and men of the armed forces. The highest award for act of bravery in the ICG is the President’s Tatrakshak Medal followed by the Tatrakshak Medal.

The Hon’ble minister inspected the 50 men ceremonial Guard prior awarding the medals. A total of 34 officers were felicitated with gallantry and meritorious service medals which included 01 PTM (Gallantry), 04 PTM(Distinguished Service), 19 TM (Gallantry) and 10 TM ( Meritorious).
 

Speaking on the occasion the Hon’ble RakshaMantri extended his heart felt appreciation to the awardees and their families. Lauding the commendable efforts of the ICG in maintaining safety of the nation’s vast maritime frontiers he said that the ICG is on a progressive path of expansion by way of augmentation of surface and air assets for keeping pace with the role envisaged. The Hon’ble minister appreciated the ICG initiative for employment of Lady Officers in combat with the successful all women dornier flight and also the soon to be afloat Platform the ACV(Air Cushion Vessel), for which they are undergoing training at ICGS Mandapam.