On every 21st of October, India commemorates Police Commemoration Day to pay tribute to police personnel who have made their ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. It is to pay homage to the policemen ambushed by Chinese troops at Hot Springs in Ladakh in 1959 and remind all of the selflessness and courage displayed by police forces.
Police Commemoration Day News
The nation comes together in 2024 to pay homage to these brave hearts. Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid tribute to the martyrs, acknowledging the vast sacrifice police personnel and their families had to make to ensure India is safe. He listed some new threats like drones, cybercrime, and narcotics, portraying the police force as now playing an increasingly important role in today’s modern India. Union Home Minister Amit Shah reminded in his address how the same day also evokes memories of the nation’s internal security threats – terrorism, cybercrime, and smuggling. The minister paid tribute to more than 216 police personnel; he honoured their sacrifice during the past year as invaluable contributors to the country’s security.
Why is Police Commemoration Day Celebrated on October 21?
On October 21, 1959, I saw a reconnaissance party of Indian policemen at Hot Springs, part of Ladakh then. Chinese forces suddenly ambushed the team. Chinese soldiers opened fire without warning and killed several Indian policemen. Their bodies were returned 23 days later, on November 13, 1959. They were cremated with full military honours.
The incident occurred during a period when there was an increase in the tension between India and China, and ever since the losses of the dead policemen have been etched in history. The Annual Conference of Inspectors General of Police held in January 1960 resolved to observe October 21 as Police Commemoration Day.
Importance of Police Commemoration Day
Police Commemoration Day is significant because it does not just commemorate the 1959 ambush alone but includes so many police officers who had laid down their lives in the service of protecting the nation. These are the first-line defenders, safeguarding law and order and public safety with risk in risky circumstances, risking laying down their lives for the greater good.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the National Police Memorial in New Delhi on Police Commemoration Day 2018. The memorial portrays scenes of the Basha attack, the Wall of Valour, and a police museum, which evolves into the history and evolution of Indian police forces.
Police Commemoration Day Meaning: A Reflection of Courage and Dedication
Police Commemoration Day 2024 in India is a reflection time for the nation, through which it collectively expresses its gratitude toward sacrifices made by police personnel. The message of remembrance, respect, and recognition of that unwavering courage that people show when dedicating their lives to the nation’s safety marks this day’s importance.
Their legacies continue alive in the ceremonies, tributes, and annual pledge to serve by inspiring generations to uphold the qualities of courage and service.
FAQ:
Why is police commemoration day celebrated?
This day is celebrated to pay respects to the policemen who were ambushed by Chinese troops at Hot Springs, Ladakh, in 1959.
What is police commemoration?
Police commemoration is remembering the 10 policemen who sacrificed their lives defending the borders of India with China in 1959.
Which day is police day celebrated?
October 21 is celebrated as police day.
What is celebrated on 21st October in India?
On 21st October, it is celebrated in India.
