The gallantry awards
| Award | When | Who can get it |
|---|---|---|
| Param Vir Chakra | War | Armed forces |
| Maha Vir Chakra | War | Armed forces |
| Vir Chakra | War | Armed forces |
| Ashoka Chakra | Peace | Armed forces, police and civilians |
| Kirti Chakra | Peace | Armed forces, police and civilians |
| Shaurya Chakra | Peace | Armed forces, police and civilians |
The order of precedence is: Param Vir Chakra, Ashoka Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, Kirti Chakra, Vir Chakra, Shaurya Chakra.
The Government of India started the war awards in 1950 and the peace awards in 1952. Both have effect from 15 August 1947. (Ministry of Defence, Gallantry Awards)