IRS Officer & Territorial Army Lieutenant Colonel Pradeep Shoury Arya Awarded Sena Medal

Lieutenant Colonel Arya, who is currently serving as the Commissioner of Income-Tax, is the first civil servant and IRS officer to receive the Sena Medal (Gallantry), marking a rare instance of recognition for gallantry to an officer serving simultaneously in civil administration and the Armed Forces.

According to details shared by the IRS Association, the Sena Medal was conferred on Arya for his operational role in anti–narco-terror missions. Even as specific operational details continue to remain classified, the award recognises acts of individual courage and devotion to duty in active military operations. He is among the 44 personnel who received the Sena Medal (Gallantry) this year, as part of the 70 gallantry awards announced on the eve of Republic Day.

Service Honours

Arya’s military records include gallantry and service honours. He is also a recipient of the Shaurya Chakra and the Vishisht Seva Medal, reflecting sustained operational and service contributions over the years.

Serving with the Territorial Army’s Parachute Regiment, Arya has balanced his responsibilities in uniform with his role in the civil services, an aspect that has drawn attention within official and service circles.

Contribution Of Officers

In an official statement, the IRS Association hailed his achievement as a source of pride for the service, noting that it highlights the unique contribution of civil servants who serve the nation both in office and on operational fronts.

The Sena Medal (Gallantry) is awarded for acts of exceptional courage in the face of the enemy or during counter-insurgency and security operations. Arya’s inclusion in the list underscores the growing role of integrated efforts in addressing security challenges such as narco-terrorism.