Dakshata Padak 2026 has been awarded to 490 personnel from police and security organisations across India. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced the recipients on 31 October 2026, the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, which is observed as National Unity Day. The medal recognises outstanding work in special operations, investigation and forensic science. It also aims to encourage professional standards and recognise the service of personnel working in challenging conditions.

The awardees come from States, Union Territories, Central Armed Police Forces and Central Police Organisations. Their work covers a range of responsibilities, from field operations and intelligence support to criminal investigations and scientific analysis.

Award Categories and Recipient Numbers

According to the announcement, the 490 recipients were recognised in three main categories. A total of 358 personnel received the medal for contributions to special operations conducted during 2024 and 2026. Another 123 were recognised for investigation work, while nine received the award for forensic science.

The distribution reflects the different roles required to support public safety and law enforcement. Special operations may involve complex field duties, while investigation awards recognise work that helps establish facts and gather evidence. Forensic science awards acknowledge the use of scientific methods to support investigations.

Recognition for Investigation Work

Among the recipients was IPS officer Sandeep Chaudhary, who was recognised for his role in the investigation into the Pahalgam terror attack.

Investigations into serious crimes and security incidents often require detailed evidence collection, coordination among agencies and careful examination of information. Recognition for investigation work highlights the importance of these tasks in supporting the justice system and public safety.

The award also acknowledges the work of personnel who may not be directly visible to the public but contribute to building reliable cases and identifying those responsible for criminal activity.

Organisations with the Highest Number of Recipients

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) had the largest number of recipients, with 114 personnel recognised. The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) followed with 56 awardees, while Punjab Police had 37 recipients.

The awardees represent a wide range of organisations involved in law enforcement, security operations and investigation. Their responsibilities differ according to their roles, but each contributes to maintaining public safety and supporting government operations.

The presence of personnel from both central and state organisations shows the broad reach of the award across India’s policing and security system.

Why the Medal Was Instituted

The Ministry of Home Affairs instituted the Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak through a notification dated 1 February 2024.

The medal was created to recognise professional excellence and encourage high standards among serving personnel. Its categories cover special operations, investigation, exceptional performance, daring intelligence service and meritorious forensic science work by government scientists.

The award is intended to recognise service that requires skill, dedication and professional commitment. It also seeks to strengthen morale among police and security personnel by acknowledging their contributions.

The Role of Forensic Science in Investigations

Forensic science is an important part of modern investigations. It applies scientific methods to examine evidence and help investigators understand what may have happened during an incident.

Forensic experts may work with DNA samples, fingerprints, firearms and ammunition, toxic substances, microscopic materials or evidence connected to fires. Some specialists examine evidence at crime scenes, while others analyse material in laboratories.

Their findings can help investigators connect evidence to people or events. Forensic analysis must be handled carefully, as the quality of collection, storage and testing can affect the reliability of results.

The recognition of nine forensic science personnel under the 2026 award highlights the contribution of scientific work to law enforcement.

National Unity Day and the Award Announcement

The announcement was made on 31 October, the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The day is observed as National Unity Day and is associated with promoting national unity and integrity.

The award announcement on this occasion recognises the work of personnel serving across different parts of the country. It brings attention to the role of police, security forces, investigators and forensic professionals in supporting public safety and national security.

With 490 recipients across several categories, the Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak 2026 recognises a wide range of work carried out by India’s law enforcement and security personnel.