17 Odisha Police Honored with Gallantry & Service Medals
Bhubaneswar, Aug 14: Seventeen personnel of the Odisha Police have been honoured with Gallantry and Service Medals on the occasion of Independence Day 2026.
The Ministry of Home Affairs announced awards for 1,057 personnel nationwide, recognising acts of bravery, distinguished service, and devotion to duty.
Five Odisha Police personnel received the Police Medal for Gallantry for their courage in saving lives, preventing crime, and apprehending criminals.
The awardees include Sub‑Inspector Manmath Kumar Mohapatra, Havildar Nirakar Bhue, and Commandos Santosh Gurung, Suman Pun, and Suresh Chandra Puta.
Two senior officers—Additional Director General Sanjeeb Panda and Deputy Superintendent of Police Smitarani Mohanty—were conferred the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service for their exemplary records.
Ten others were recognised with the Police Medal for Meritorious Service, including DSP Manoranjan Paikray, DSP Suresh Kumar Bal, Inspector Gitanjaleе Panda, Deputy Commandant Bhabesh Kumar Nayak, and Assistant Commandant Paresh Kumar Minati.
These honours highlight the courage, resourcefulness, and dedication of Odisha Police personnel in safeguarding the public and upholding law and order.
