The MacGregor Memorial Medal Awards 2025 recognised five distinguished Armed Forces personnel for their exceptional contributions to military reconnaissance, exploration, and adventure.

The awards were conferred by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan at a ceremony hosted by the United Service Institution of India (USI) in New Delhi.

Key Points:

Awardees for 2023:

• Wing Commander D. Panda (Indian Air Force): Honoured for outstanding military reconnaissance and adventure.
• Electrical Artificer (Radio) Rahul Kumar Pandey (Indian Navy): Recognised for significant contributions in exploration and military service.?

Awardees for 2024:

• Chief Electrical Aircraft Artificer (Radio) Ram Ratan Jat (Indian Navy): Acknowledged for excellence in military reconnaissance and adventure.
• Sergeant Jhumar Ram Poonia (Indian Air Force): Commended for remarkable achievements in exploration and military activities.
• Colonel Ranvir Singh Jamwal (Indian Army): Director of the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports in Arunachal Pradesh, recognised for leadership in adventure training and mountaineering.?

Historical Context:
Instituted in 1888, the MacGregor Memorial Medal honours the legacy of Major General Sir Charles Metcalfe MacGregor, founder of the USI. Initially recognising military reconnaissance and exploratory journeys, the medal's scope was expanded in 1986 to include military expeditions and adventure activities. ?

Award Significance:
The MacGregor Memorial Medal is one of the oldest military honours in India, celebrating the spirit of adventure and the pursuit of excellence in challenging terrains and environments.?

These awards not only recognise individual achievements but also inspire a culture of excellence and resilience within the Indian Armed Forces.