Indian Meritorious Service Medal (for Indian Army)


The Indian Meritorious Service Medal was a long and meritorious service medal awarded to Indian non-commissioned officers in the British Indian Army.

History

Established on 27 July 1888, the Indian Meritorious Service Medal could be awarded to one Daffadar or Havildar of each of the regiments of the Presidency armies. To be awarded the medal men must have served at least 18 years and had performed in a meritorious manner, with no courts-martial, and having been entered in the defaulters book fewer than five times. He must also have been recommended by his commanding officer. Recipients of the Indian Meritorious Service Medal had to surrender any previously awarded Indian Long Service and Good Conduct Medal.

Appearance

The Indian Meritorious Service Medal is a circular silver medal 1.4 inches in diameter, designed by L.C. Wyon. The obverse depicts the effigy of the reigning sovereign. Around the edge is the inscription of the sovereign's regnal name and the title KAISAR-I-HIND. The reverse depicts an outer wreath of lotus flowers and leaves surrounding an inner wreath of palm leaves. Between the two wreaths is the inscription FOR MERITORIOUS SERVICE. Inside the inner wreath is the word INDIA.

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