Sena Medal

This article is about the Sena Medal, an Indian Military decoration.  'SM' redirects here 

The Sena Medal is awarded to members of the Indian army, of all ranks, "for such individual acts of exceptional devotion to duty or courage as have special significance for the Army." Awards may be made posthumously and a bar is authorized for subsequent awards of the Sena Medal.

It is awarded for gallantry. However, the Sena Medal (Distinguished) is given for distinguished service carried out by any soldier, not in the face of the enemy. The Sena Medal also serves as a sort of general commendation medal for the Indian Army. From 1 February 1999, the central government set a monthly stipend of Rs. 250 for recipients of the award when it is awarded for bravery. It has since been revised to Rs. 1000. It is preceded by the Vir Chakra, Shaurya Chakra & Yudh Seva Medal. It in turn precedes the Vishisht Seva Medal.

Established
17 June 1960, by the President of India.

Obverse
A circular silver medal with a bayonet, point upwards.

Reverse
A standing soldier with the legend in Hindi "Sena Medal" above. The medal is suspended by a straight-bar suspender and is named on the edge. The medal is also often dated on the edge as well.

Ribbon
32 mm, red, with a 2 mm white central stripe. Red 15 mm, white 2 mm, red 15 mm.