When India become a Republic, it continued to follow the British tradition and instituted many decorations and medals. Now, the President of India, Service Chiefs or GoCs-in-Cs of the Command confer 15 gallantry and distinguished service awards on the Indian Armed Forces personnel. These awards are conferred for gallantry in the face of the enemy, for gallantry other than in the face of the enemy and for devotion to duty. Some distinguished service awards are also conferred on Service Officers for displaying exceptional leadership qualities. Certain gallantry awards can also be conferred on the civilians. The book attempts to describe these awards so that people know about the gallant deeds of Indian soldiers.