Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman will be awarded Vir Chakra on Independence Day for shooting down Pakistan F-16 during the February 27 air-skirmish between IAF and PAF a day after Balakot strikes. Vir Chakra is India’s third-highest wartime medal. Two personnel will be conferred with Kirti Chakras while 14 others will be conferred with Shaurya Chakras.
