Q: The 'Gems' Ashoka Chakra award features which symbol in the center?
Answer: Wheel of Dharma
Explanation: The Ashoka Chakra medal displays a replica of the wheel from the Lion Capital of Ashoka at Sarnath. It is a symbol of the progress and the righteousness of the nation. The wheel is also famously present on the Indian national flag.
Q: Who was the 'Gems' first woman to be awarded the Ashoka Chakra?
Answer: Neerja Bhanot
Explanation: Neerja Bhanot was awarded the Ashoka Chakra posthumously for saving passengers during a hijack in 1986. She is the youngest person and the first civilian woman to receive this honor. Her story is widely taught as a lesson in courage.
Q: Which 'Gems' wartime award is the third-highest decoration for valor in India?
Answer: Vir Chakra
Explanation: The Vir Chakra is the third-highest wartime medal, following the Param Vir Chakra and Maha Vir Chakra. It is given for bravery against the enemy on land, sea, or air. The medal is made of silver and features a hollow star.
Q: How many 'Gems' levels are there in the peacetime gallantry awards hierarchy?
Answer: Three
Explanation: There are three levels of peacetime gallantry awards: Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra, and Shaurya Chakra. They were renamed from Ashoka Chakra Class I, II, and III in 1967. They mirror the three levels of wartime gallantry awards.
Q: Which 'Gems' Indian state animal is the mascot for the Gaur which appears on some awards?
Answer: Goa
Explanation: The Indian Bison or Gaur is the state animal of Goa and often used in various institutional insignias. While not a direct part of the chakra medals, it represents regional bravery. Many military regiments from specific states use their state symbols in their badges.
Q: The 'Gems' award 'Sena Medal' is specific to which branch of the military?
Answer: Army
Explanation: The Sena Medal is awarded to soldiers of the Indian Army for individual acts of courage or devotion to duty. Its equivalents are the Nao Sena Medal (Navy) and Vayu Sena Medal (Air Force). It can be awarded for both gallantry and distinguished service.
Q: Which 'Gems' metal is used to make the Shaurya Chakra medal?
Answer: Bronze
Explanation: The Shaurya Chakra is made of bronze and is the third-highest peacetime gallantry award. It is circular and features a replica of the Ashoka Chakra in the center. It recognizes bravery in situations other than direct combat.
Q: The 'Gems' Param Vir Chakra is officially made of which material?
Answer: Bronze
Explanation: The Param Vir Chakra is made of bronze and is a simple circular medal. It is highly valued for what it represents rather than its material worth. The medal features four replicas of 'Indra’s Vajra' surrounding the state emblem.
Q: Who is the 'Gems' supreme commander of the Indian Armed Forces who confers these awards?
Answer: President of India
Explanation: The President of India is the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces and officially awards these honors. The awards are presented during special investiture ceremonies at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The nominations are vetted by high-level military and civil committees.
Q: The 'Gems' motto 'Valour in War' is most associated with which category of awards?
Answer: Wartime Gallantry Awards
Explanation: Wartime gallantry awards like the PVC and MVC are given specifically for courage shown during active war or conflict. They require a face-to-face encounter with the enemy. These are among the most revered decorations in the global military community.