Maha Vir Chakra
| Maha Vir Chakra | |
|---|---|
Maha Vir Chakra medal and ribbon | |
| Type | Medal |
| Awarded for | "... acts of gallantry in the presence of the enemy on land, at sea or in the air." |
| Country | Republic of India |
| Presented by | Republic of India |
| Eligibility | Military personnel |
| Status | Currently awarded |
| Established | 26 January 1950 |
| First award | 1947 |
| Final award | 2021 |
| Total awarded posthumously | 74 |
| Total recipients | 213 (as of 2023) |
| Precedence | |
| Next (higher) | Param Vishisht Seva Medal |
| Equivalent | Kirti Chakra |
| Next (lower) | Padma Shri |
The Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) (lit. 'Great Wheel of Bravery') is the second highest military decoration in India, after the Param Vir Chakra, and is awarded for acts of conspicuous gallantry in the presence of the enemy, whether on land, at sea or in the air. It replaced the British Distinguished Service Order (DSO). The medal may be awarded posthumously.