Wearing of Medals by Ex-Servicemen on Special Occassion — Official Guidelines

Let’s hold the Legacy of Wearing Medals by Exservicemen

Medals are not just metallic insignia — they are symbols of honour, service, sacrifice, and the lifelong pride of having served the nation in uniform. Even after retirement, ex-servicemen remain ambassadors of the Indian Armed Forces. Wearing medals on civil attire during appropriate occasions serves as a reminder to society of the invaluable contributions made by veterans.

To ensure uniformity, decorum, and dignity, the Ministry of Defence has laid down clear guidelines regarding when and how ex-servicemen should wear their medals while in civil dress.

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🏅Full-Size Medals — When to Wear

Full-size service and gallantry medals should be worn on national, ceremonial, or military occasions that carry official or patriotic significance. These include:

Republic Day (26th January)
Participation in or attendance at national parades or flag hoisting ceremonies.
Independence Day (15th August)
Celebrations marking the nation’s freedom.
Service Day / Raising Day / Corps Day
Ceremonies commemorating the establishment of a regiment, corps, or unit.
Vijay Diwas (16th December)
Celebrating India’s victory in the 1971 war.
Wreath-Laying Ceremonies
Memorial services honouring fallen soldiers.
Receptions at Rashtrapati Bhawan or Raj Bhawan
State-level receptions involving the President or Governors.
Standard or Colour Presentation Parades
Ceremonial recognition of distinguished units.
Passing Out Parades (POP)
Graduation events at training academies or units.
Unit Anniversaries and Reunions
Formal regimental gatherings and milestone celebrations.
State or Military Funerals
Paying last respects to departed dignitaries or veterans.
Embassy/High Commission Events
National celebrations abroad organized by Indian missions.
Armed Forces Functions & Veterans’ Rallies
Official veteran meets, military exhibitions, or defence conclaves.
Aid to Civil Power
When called upon officially to assist civil administration.
Duty Visits to Military Headquarters
For official or ceremonial visits to military establishments.

II. 🎖️ Miniature Medals — When to Wear

Miniature medals are smaller representations of full medals and are suited for semi-formal or social occasions where military decorum is maintained. These may be worn on:

Official or Private Dinners, Cocktails, Receptions
Especially when attended by military personnel or government dignitaries.
Functions at Messes or Military Institutions
Such as commemorative events, reunions, or seminars.
Events Around Republic Day / Independence Day
Community or association gatherings around national holidays.
Receptions at Residences of Service Chiefs
Functions hosted by Chief of Army, Navy, or Air Staff.
Embassy/High Commission Events
National Day celebrations or veterans’ dinners abroad.
Armed Forces & Veterans’ Gatherings
Felicitation ceremonies, book launches, or veteran-focused programs.

✅ Miniature medals add dignity to formal wear without the weight or prominence of full-size medals.

III. ⚠️ Important Do’s and Don’ts

❌ Medals Must NOT Be Worn At:

Political Gatherings or Rallies
Protests or Demonstrations
Marches of any political or activist nature

❌ Medals Cannot Be Worn If:

The individual was dismissed or discharged on disciplinary grounds.
The veteran is serving a sentence or under court-martial conviction.

✅ When Wearing Medals, Always Maintain:

Dignity: Your conduct should reflect honour and pride.
Respect: For the uniform, medals, and the nation.
Proper Decorum: Including suitable attire, posture, and language.

🎖️ The medals are not just about what you’ve done — they’re about what you continue to represent.

IV. 💬 A Message to All Veterans

Even after you’ve hung up your uniform, your legacy marches on.
You are not just a retired soldier, sailor, or airman —
You are a living reminder of the values and valour of the Indian Armed Forces.