Source: TNIE
Context:
On Vijay Diwas 2025, President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the ‘Param Vir Dirgha’ at Rashtrapati Bhavan — a dedicated gallery showcasing portraits of all 21 Param Vir Chakra (PVC) awardees.
This installation replaces portraits of former British Aide-de-Camps, marking a significant step in India’s ongoing effort to remove colonial-era symbols and honour the nation’s own military heritage.
About Param Vir Chakra (PVC)
India’s highest military gallantry award, given for exceptional bravery, valour and supreme sacrifice in the presence of the enemy during wartime.
- Instituted: 26 January 1950
Key features:
- Awarded to personnel of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Territorial Army and other armed forces
- Can be awarded posthumously (majority of awards have been posthumous)
- Comes with a monthly honorarium of ₹3,000, plus ₹3,000 for each bar awarded
Award criteria:
- Granted only in wartime conditions
- Recognises extraordinary courage and self-sacrifice in direct combat
About Aide-de-Camps (ADCs)
An Aide-de-Camp is a commissioned military officer attached to high constitutional authorities such as the President, Governors, or Service Chiefs.
Typical ranks:
- Major (Army)
- Lieutenant Commander (Navy)
- Squadron Leader (Air Force)
