Instituted on 04 Jan 1952 and renamed on 27 Jan 1967 to recognize the most conspicuous bravery or some act of daring or pre-eminent act of valor or self-sacrifice otherwise than in the face of the enemy.
Design of the Medal and Ribbon
Medal: Circular in shape, one and three eighth inches in diameter with rims on both sides and will be of gold-gilt. On the obverse, it shall have embossed a replica of Ashoka's Chakra in the centre surrounded by a lotus wreath. On its reverse shall be embossed the words "Ashoka Chakra" both in Hindi and English, the two versions being separated by two lotus flowers.
Ribbon: Green colour ribbon divided into two equal segments by an orange vertical line.
Bar: If a recipient of the Chakra again performs such an act of gallantry as would have made him or her eligible to receive the Chakra, such further act of gallantry shall be recognised by a Bar to be attached to the riband by which the Chakra is suspended and, for every subsequent act of gallantry, an additional Bar shall be added. For every such Bar, a replica of the Chakra in miniature shall be added to the riband when worn alone.