Heroic Saga Of IAF Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman

 Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who had shot down a Pakistani F-16 near the Line of Control (LoC) in February resulting in his capture and subsequent release by Islamabad, will be conferred with Vir Chakra on Independence Day. The Vir Chakra is one of India's top military honors and is awarded for acts of gallantry in the presence of the enemy, whether on land or at sea or in the air.

Indian Air Force’s Squadron Leader Minty Agarwal will also be conferred with Yudh Seva Medal for her role as a fighter controller during the February 27 aerial conflict between India & Pakistan post-IAF airstrikes in Balakot.