Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday extended his greetings to all personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on the occasion of its Raising Day, lauding the force for its unwavering courage, dedication to duty and invaluable contribution to the nation’s security.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said: “Greetings to all CRPF personnel on their Raising Day. The CRPF has distinguished itself through its unwavering courage and commitment to duty. From safeguarding internal security to serving citizens during challenging situations, CRPF personnel have always placed the nation first. Their efforts in eliminating the menace of Maoism are particularly notable and have contributed to peace and progress in the lives of several people.”
He added, “The Central Reserve Police Force, India’s largest Central Armed Police Force, plays a crucial role in maintaining internal security, counter-insurgency operations, disaster response and law and order duties across the country. The force has been at the forefront of operations against Maoist insurgency while also undertaking a wide range of security responsibilities in different parts of India.”
Observed annually on July 27, CRPF Raising Day marks the foundation of the force in 1939. Established initially as the Crown Representative’s Police under the British administration, the organisation was later reorganised after Independence and became the Central Reserve Police Force under the CRPF Act of 1949.
Operating under the Ministry of Home Affairs, the CRPF is India’s largest Central Armed Police Force and is tasked with maintaining internal security, supporting state police forces, conducting counter-insurgency and anti-militancy operations, controlling riots and crowds, and tackling Left Wing Extremism. The force also plays a key role in ensuring security during elections, particularly in sensitive and conflict-prone areas.
Over the years, the CRPF has expanded into a nationwide security organisation with specialised units such as the Rapid Action Force (RAF), trained to deal with riots and communal disturbances, and the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA), which specialises in anti-Maoist and counter-insurgency operations.
According to official figures, 2,270 CRPF personnel have laid down their lives in the line of duty since the force’s inception, underscoring its role in some of the country’s most challenging internal security operations.
Guided by its motto, “Service and Loyalty”, the CRPF remains one of India’s oldest and most decorated security forces, with responsibilities spanning law and order, disaster response and the protection of national security.
(IANS)
