The Indian Army's unwavering spirit of patriotism, courage and sacrifice stood tall at the Eastern Command Investiture Ceremony 2026, held with solemn pride at Umroi Military Station on Monday, where gallantry awardees including soldiers linked to the recently conducted Operation Sindoor were honoured for exemplary service to the nation.The prestigious ceremony was presided over by Lieutenant General Ram Chander Tiwari, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, SM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command, who conferred gallantry and distinguished service awards on soldiers for acts of exceptional valour, leadership and devotion to duty in challenging operational environments. A total of 37 gallantry and distinguished service medals were awarded, comprising
19 Sena Medals (Gallantry), 7 Sena Medals (Distinguished), 2 Yudh Seva Medals, 1 Bar to Vishisht Seva Medal, 7 Vishisht Seva Medals, and 1 Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak.Senior Army officials said that several awardees were recognised for their roles in counter insurgency and intelligence based operations, including Operation Sindoor, a recent high-impact mission conducted in difficult terrain to neutralise hostile elements and restore security. The operation highlighted the Eastern Command’s operational readiness, precision planning and the personal bravery of troops operating under extreme conditions.In addition, 49 Army units and Army Public School Kolkata were honoured with the GOC-in-C Eastern Command Unit Appreciation, acknowledging their professionalism, operational excellence and sustained contribution to mission success, including logistical and humanitarian support during ongoing operations.The ceremony was attended by senior officers of the Indian Armed Forces and the proud families of the awardees, including Veer Naris, reflecting the nation’s deep respect and gratitude for its soldiers and their loved ones. Addressing the gathering, Lt Gen Ram Chander Tiwari congratulated the award recipients and exhorted all ranks to continue upholding the highest traditions, values and ethos of the Indian Army. He reaffirmed the Eastern Command’s steadfast commitment to national security, operational excellence and the protection of India’s sovereignty.As a prelude to the investiture ceremony, a vibrant cultural evening titled ‘Shaurya Sandhya’ was organised on February 9, celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage and the indomitable spirit of courage and sacrifice that defines the Indian soldier values exemplified by the heroes of operations such as Operation Sindoor.
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