President approves Jeevan Raksha Padak awards for 30 brave citizens

The President of India has approved the conferment of the Jeevan Raksha Padak Series of Awards–2025 on 30 individuals for their exceptional courage and selfless efforts in saving human lives , often at grave personal risk. The announcement was made on the eve of Republic Day 2026 .

According to an official statement, the awards include the Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak for six persons, the Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak for six, and the Jeevan Raksha Padak for 18 individuals. Six awardees have been honoured posthumously , recognising acts of bravery that resulted in the loss of their lives while rescuing others.

The Jeevan Raksha Padak Series , instituted in 1961 , is among India’s highest civilian honours for life-saving bravery. It is awarded to civilians as well as personnel from the armed forces, police, home guards and other services for acts such as rescuing people from fires, floods, drowning incidents, road accidents and other emergencies.

Among the recipients, Major Vishavdeep Singh Attri of the Indian Army has been conferred the Jeevan Raksha Padak for bravely rescuing two children from drowning in the Dhansiri River in Nagaland . The officer displayed exceptional presence of mind and courage, going beyond the call of duty to save the children.

Each award carries a medal, a citation and a cash award , with the amount varying according to the category. In posthumous cases, the cash award is presented to the next of kin of the deceased awardee.

The Jeevan Raksha Padak Series of Awards reflects the nation’s commitment to recognising acts of humanitarian courage and sacrifice , and honours individuals who place the value of human life above their own safety. The awards will be presented by the President of India at a formal ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on a later date.