India Awards 1,057 Gallantry and Service Medals on Independence Day

India celebrates Independence Day every year to remember when the country became free.

Just before the big celebration, the government says thank you to people who keep the country safe by giving them special medals.

This year, the government gave medals to 1,057 people.

The people being honoured include police officers, firefighters, home guards, civil defence helpers and people who work in correctional services.

There are three kinds of medals.

A Medal for Gallantry is for a very brave action, like saving someone's life or catching criminals.

A President's Medal for Distinguished Service is for people with a special record of good service.

A Medal for Meritorious Service is for people who worked with great care and dedication.

Most of the bravery medals went to police officers, many of whom work in difficult places like areas affected by Left Wing Extremism and the Jammu and Kashmir region.

The government announced the medals in New Delhi to say thank you to all these people who help keep everyone safe.