Question

Which is this award? When it is given?

Hint:

The COAS Commendation Card acts as a vital motivational tool within the Army, recognizing exceptional performance that falls between standard service medals and high-tier gallantry decorations.

Answer 1

Step 1: Identifying the standard military commendations in the Army:
In the official NCC Specialized Subject syllabus under the chapter “Honours and Awards,” several key decorations are studied. If the question contains an image of an award:
• The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Commendation Card: This is a standard non-gallantry administrative decoration represented by a highly decorated badge card. It is awarded directly by the COAS to recognize individual acts of outstanding gallantry, distinguished service, or devotion to duty that do not meet the strict criteria for a national medal but deserve formal recognition.
• The Param Vir Chakra (PVC): India's highest wartime gallantry award, represented by a circular bronze medal with four replicas of the Vajra. It is awarded for supreme bravery in the presence of the enemy.

Step 2: Explaining When the COAS Commendation Card is Given:

• It is awarded on occasions like Army Day (January 15) or Independence Day (August 15).
• It is given to military personnel (and sometimes civilians working with the military) who perform acts of valor, exceptional devotion to duty, or technical innovation that significantly benefit military operations.

Step 3: Explaining When the Param Vir Chakra (PVC) is Given:

• It is awarded by the President of India for the highest degree of valor, self-sacrifice, or conspicuous bravery in the direct face of the enemy, whether on land, at sea, or in the air.