In a historic recognition of valor that bridges civil administration and military service, Lieutenant Colonel Pradeep Shoury Arya has been honored with the prestigious Sena Medal (Gallantry) on the eve of the 77th Republic Day in 2026. This award, approved by President Droupadi Murmu as part of the Republic Day gallantry honors, marks a significant milestone in India's security landscape.
A Trailblazing Civil Servant in Uniform
Lt Col Arya, a 2004-batch officer of the Indian Revenue Service (IRS) currently serving as Commissioner of Income-Tax, holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army. With this honor, he becomes the first civil servant and the first Indian Revenue Service officer to ever receive the Sena Medal (Gallantry). This rare dual recognition highlights an exceptional career that seamlessly integrates civil administration responsibilities with active military service.
Operational Excellence in Counter-Narco-Terror Missions
According to details shared by the IRS Association, the Sena Medal has been conferred specifically for Lt Col Arya's operational role in anti-narco-terror missions. While specific operational details remain classified for security reasons, the award recognizes acts of individual courage and unwavering devotion to duty during active military operations. The Sena Medal (Gallantry) is traditionally awarded for acts of exceptional bravery in the face of the enemy or during counter-insurgency and security operations.
Among Distinguished Company
Lt Col Arya stands among 44 personnel who received the Sena Medal (Gallantry) this year, as part of the 70 gallantry awards announced on the eve of Republic Day. The comprehensive list of honors includes:
- One Ashok Chakra
- Three Kirti Chakras
- 13 Shaurya Chakras
- One Bar to Sena Medal (Gallantry)
- 44 Sena Medals (Gallantry)
- Six Nao Sena Medals (Gallantry)
- Two Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry)
A Legacy of Gallantry and Service
Lt Col Arya's military record reflects sustained excellence over the years. He is already a recipient of the Shaurya Chakra and the Vishisht Seva Medal, demonstrating consistent operational and service contributions. Serving with the Territorial Army's elite Parachute Regiment, he has masterfully balanced his responsibilities in uniform with his demanding role in the civil services.
Symbol of Integrated Security Efforts
This recognition has drawn significant attention within official and service circles, as it underscores the growing importance of integrated efforts in addressing complex security challenges like narco-terrorism. The IRS Association, in an official statement, expressed immense pride in Lt Col Arya's achievement, noting that it highlights his substantial contribution to national security alongside his civil responsibilities.
The conferment of the Sena Medal (Gallantry) to a serving civil servant represents a watershed moment in India's security paradigm. It acknowledges that modern security challenges require coordinated responses that transcend traditional boundaries between civil and military domains. Lt Col Arya's recognition serves as an inspiration for professionals across sectors, demonstrating that dedication to national service can take multiple forms while achieving singular excellence.
