Police Commemoration Day: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Pays Tribute at National Police Memorial, Lauds Forces for Safeguarding Nation.
New Delhi:
On the solemn occasion of Police Commemoration Day, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid rich tributes to the sacrifices and unwavering dedication of India’s police and paramilitary forces. Laying a wreath at the National Police Memorial in New Delhi, he honoured the memory of the 10 brave policemen who were martyred during an ambush by Chinese troops at Hot Springs, Ladakh, on this day in 1959.
In his address, Rajnath Singh praised both the police and armed forces, calling them the pillars of national security. “While the military safeguards the nation’s geographical boundaries, the police uphold the social integrity of the country,” he remarked. He stressed that their missions, though operating on different platforms, converge on a single goal — protecting the nation.
Rising Challenges in a Changing Landscape
The Defence Minister highlighted the evolving security scenario, noting that while border tensions persist, the internal security landscape has become more complex. “Terrorism, cybercrime, and ideological warfare are rising. Crime is now more organised, invisible, and disruptive,” he said, warning that such threats are aimed at sowing chaos and distrust within society.
Despite these challenges, Singh applauded the police forces for maintaining not just law and order, but also public trust. “If citizens sleep peacefully today, it’s because of their faith in our vigilant Armed Forces and alert police,” he stated, crediting this confidence as the foundation of India’s stability.
Major Success Against Naxalism
Rajnath Singh shed light on the remarkable progress in containing left-wing extremism. He credited the police, CRPF, BSF, and local administrations for a coordinated approach that has brought significant relief to previously affected regions.
“Naxalism, once a grave internal threat, is now in its last phase. Several top Naxalites have been eliminated, and many are surrendering. The so-called Red Corridor is now transforming into a growth and education corridor,” he said confidently, predicting the end of the Naxal problem by March next year.
Honouring the Police & Strengthening the Force
Referring to the National Police Memorial, established in 2018 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the Defence Minister underlined the importance of recognising police sacrifices — something he said was long overlooked.
He highlighted ongoing efforts to modernise police forces, with investments in advanced weapons, surveillance systems, drones, forensic labs, and digital policing tools. Central support to states for police modernisation has also increased substantially.
Calling for coordination among security agencies, he emphasised that optimal resource use and a strong intelligence network are essential to combat new-age threats.
Society & Police: A Symbiotic Relationship
Rajnath Singh also touched upon the critical relationship between society and the police, saying that mutual respect and understanding are key to an effective security framework. “Policing can only succeed when citizens are partners in upholding law and order,” he stressed.
Ceremonial Tribute
The commemoration ceremony included a joint parade by the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Delhi Police. Dignitaries present included Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar, Home Secretary Govind Mohan, Intelligence Bureau Director Tapan Deka, BSF DG Daljit Singh Chawdhary, along with several serving and retired officers of the police and paramilitary forces.
The event served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices, resilience, and dedication of the country’s uniformed services in keeping India safe — both from external aggression and internal threats.
