ITANAGAR, Nov 9: The Arunachal Pradesh Police celebrated its 54th Raising Day at the Police Training Centre (PTC), Banderdewa, on Sunday, with a call to strengthen public-oriented policing and uphold the force's commitment to protecting citizens and maintaining law and order.
The programme began with the chief guest Mutchu Mithi, MLA and Adviser to the Home Minister, laying a wreath at the Martyrs' Pillar to pay tribute to police personnel who laid down their lives in the line of duty. He also inspected the parade and march-past presented by contingents of the Civil Police, Arunachal Armed Police Battalion (AAPBn) and India Reserve Battalion (IRBn).
Addressing the gathering, Mithi expressed gratitude to police personnel for their sacrifices, dedication and commitment to serving the people of Arunachal Pradesh.
He said the state had a strong and capable police force comprising more than 14,000 personnel, who remained committed to public service round the clock. He added that the state government accorded high priority to the police department and had allocated a separate fund for its development and welfare.
Earlier, Director General of Police (DGP) Rajesh Kumar hoisted the Arunachal Pradesh Police Unit flag and welcomed the chief guest, invitees, police officers and other attendees.
In his address, the DGP said Raising Day was an occasion not only to celebrate the force's achievements but also to reflect on its journey and renew its commitment to the people. Established in 1967, the Arunachal Pradesh Police had grown into a force of more than 14,000 personnel, he said.
He paid tribute to the pioneers of the force, particularly LB Sewa, IPS, and others whose vision, courage and sacrifices laid the foundation for its growth.
Over the years, the force had expanded its operational capabilities through seven armed battalions and specialised units, including the Special Task Force, Fire and Emergency Services and State Disaster Response Force. The expansion of police stations, women police stations and other infrastructure had also strengthened policing at the grassroots level, he said.
Emphasising that the force's fundamental responsibility remained to protect people, uphold the law and serve society with integrity, courage and compassion, Kumar called for greater focus on public-oriented initiatives such as Police e-Services, Police Ajin, Samwad and Khoya Paya Abhiyaan.
He said the objective was to make policing more accessible, transparent and responsive, adding that the success of a police force should be measured not merely by the number of cases registered or criminals apprehended, but also by the trust and confidence it earned from the public.