In a heartfelt tribute, DSP Humayun Bhat and Naik Dilawar Khan are posthumously recognized for their sacrifice, while six Muslim individuals receive Life-Saving Medals for their courageous actions.
NEW DELHI- On the eve of the 76th Republic Day, President Draupadi Murmu announced the Gallantry Awards for 93 personnel from the Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces, including several posthumous recognitions. Among the distinguished recipients are the martyred DSP Humayun Bhat and Naik Dilawar Khan, both of whom gave their lives in service to the nation. Additionally, six Muslim individuals were honoured with the Life-Saving Medal for their extraordinary bravery in a rescue operation in Uttarakhand.
DSP Humayun Bhat, a brave officer from Jammu and Kashmir, lost his life during an encounter with militants in South Kashmir in 2023. Posted in one of the most volatile regions, he was posthumously awarded the Gallantry Award for his unwavering courage. His bravery had already been recognised in 2021 when he was awarded the President’s Police Medal for his heroic actions during another encounter.
A senior police official expressed, “DSP Humayun Bhat’s dedication and commitment to protecting the nation, even in the face of extreme danger, will always be remembered. His actions embodied the true spirit of selfless service.”
Naik Dilawar Khan of the 28th Battalion of the Rashtriya Rifles was awarded the Kirti Chakra for his heroic actions during an ambush in Kupwara’s Lolab Valley on July 23, 2024. Despite being severely injured in the encounter, Naik Khan engaged a terrorist in hand-to-hand combat, ultimately neutralising the threat before succumbing to his wounds. His remarkable bravery has left an indelible mark on the hearts of his comrades.
“Naik Dilawar Khan’s valour under fire is a shining example of courage and determination,” said a military spokesperson. “His sacrifice serves as a powerful reminder of the selflessness that our armed forces embody.”
In a separate but equally inspiring story, six Muslim individuals were honoured with the Life-Saving Medal for their courageous actions in the Silkayara Bend-Barkot tunnel rescue operation in Uttarakhand. The rescue, which took place in 2023, saw these brave men, along with a team of rat miners, risk their lives to save construction workers trapped under rubble after a tunnel collapse.
Vakil Hasan, Mohammad Rashid, Firoz Qureshi, Mohammad Irshad, Nasruddin, and Naseem were among those who received the prestigious award for their quick thinking and unrelenting efforts. The rat miners, known for their expertise in navigating narrow spaces, were pivotal in reaching the workers trapped in the tunnel.
President Murmu lauded the bravery of the rat miners, stating, “These heroes risked everything to save lives. Their remarkable courage is a testament to the human spirit, and we are proud to honour them on this Republic Day.”
The Life-Saving Medal was also awarded posthumously to 12 other rat miners, with five others who tragically lost their lives during the operation being recognised posthumously with the Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Medal.
These six Muslim individuals, whose bravery and determination saved many lives, have become symbols of courage and humanity. Their heroic efforts serve as an inspiration to all, highlighting the selfless dedication of ordinary individuals in extraordinary circumstances.