New Delhi, October 21: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday underscored the vital role of both the Indian Army and the Police in safeguarding the nation, describing them as the twin pillars of India’s security structure. He was addressing the Police Commemoration Day ceremony at the National Police Memorial, Chanakyapuri, in the national capital.
Drawing on his experiences as both former Union Home Minister and current Defence Minister, Singh said that while the Army defends the nation’s borders, the Police ensures internal peace and public safety — both united by a shared spirit of patriotism and sacrifice.
“Both the Army and Police are pillars of the country’s security. Whether the threat comes from across the border or arises within our society, every individual who stands up for India’s safety embodies the same spirit of service,” Singh stated.
‘Police and Military – One Mission, One Spirit’
The Defence Minister emphasized that as India enters the Amrit Kal and moves towards achieving ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’, the need to maintain perfect harmony between internal and external security has become more crucial than ever.
“The military and police may work on different platforms, but their mission is one — the protection of national security,” he said.
Commending the Police for Professionalism and Public Trust
Rajnath Singh lauded the Indian police for their evolving role in society — from crime prevention to managing public perception with professionalism and empathy.
“Today, the police fight not only crime but also perception. It is commendable that along with their official duties, our police are fulfilling their moral responsibilities. Citizens now have faith that the police will stand with them in times of need,” he noted.
Acknowledging Sacrifices and Strengthening the Force
Expressing regret that the sacrifices of police personnel were not fully recognized in earlier decades, the Defence Minister praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for establishing the National Police Memorial in 2018, which now serves as a lasting symbol of valor, unity, and sacrifice.
“Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the National Police Memorial was established to honor the supreme sacrifices of our police heroes. Alongside, we have provided modern weapons, advanced technology, and improved facilities to the police forces,” Singh said.
He further stressed the need for coordination and integration between all security agencies to make the best use of national resources in facing evolving challenges.
Remembering the Heroes of Hot Springs
Police Commemoration Day, observed annually on October 21, marks the sacrifice of ten CRPF personnel led by Assistant Inspector Karam Singh, who were martyred during an ambush by Chinese troops at Hot Springs, Ladakh, in 1959. Since then, the day has been observed across India to honor the brave police personnel who laid down their lives in the line of duty.
National Police Memorial – Symbol of Valor and Pride
Dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister Modi in 2018, the National Police Memorial symbolizes strength, resilience, and selfless service. It features a 30-foot-high granite cenotaph, the ‘Wall of Valour’, and a Police Museum that chronicles the history and evolution of policing in India.
The Memorial serves as a sacred site of remembrance and national pride, reinforcing the police’s unwavering commitment to protect the nation — even at the cost of their lives.
Week-long Commemorative Events
As part of the remembrance, CAPFs and State Police Forces organize various commemorative activities from October 22 to 30, including family visits of martyrs, band displays, motorcycle rallies, blood donation camps, and school competitions — all celebrating the courage and dedication of India’s police personnel.
