A Glorious Milestone: CRPF Celebrates 87th Raising Day with Unwavering Dedication

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), India’s largest and oldest paramilitary force, proudly celebrated its 87th CRPF Raising Day on Sunday, July 27, 2025. This significant occasion marked 86 years of unparalleled service, gallantry, and unwavering dedication to the nation’s internal security and unity. The celebrations, held with patriotic fervour across various CRPF establishments, highlighted the force’s glorious legacy and its relentless commitment to safeguarding the country.

A Legacy Forged in Courage: The History of CRPF Raising Day

• Birth of a Force: The CRPF’s journey began on July 27, 1939, as the Crown Representative’s Police (CRP). It was initially established in response to escalating political turmoil and unrest in the princely states, following the Madras Resolution of the All-India Congress Committee in 1936.
• Post-Independence Transformation: After India gained independence, the CRP was renamed the Central Reserve Police Force through an Act of Parliament on December 28, 1949. This legislative act cemented its status as an armed entity under the Union government, with Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel, the then Home Minister, envisioning a multifaceted role for the force in independent India.
• Decades of Evolution: Since its inception, the CRPF has continuously evolved, absorbing various state reserve police units in the 1960s and expanding its roles to address complex internal and external security challenges. The motto “Service and Loyalty” truly reflects the force’s steadfast dedication to duty.

Honoring Valor and Sacrifice on CRPF Raising Day

• Commemorative Events: The primary commemorative event for the 87th CRPF Raising Day was held at the Shaurya Officers’ Institute in Vasant Kunj, New Delhi, graced by Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan as the Chief Guest. Similar celebrations, including Sainik Sammelans and tribute ceremonies, were observed across the country, from Srinagar to Jammu.
• Gallantry Awards: In a proud tradition, the Union Home Secretary presented Gallantry Medals to 27 brave personnel and to the family members of three martyrs. These 30 recipients included 17 personnel recognized for their courage in Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) affected states like Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, and 13 lauded for their heroic actions against terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir.
• Tributes to Martyrs: CRPF Director General Gyanendra Pratap Singh, accompanied by senior officers, paid a solemn wreath-laying tribute at the National Police Memorial, saluting the 2,268 CRPF martyrs who have made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.
• Recalling Historic Battles: DG Singh reflected on the CRPF’s glorious legacy, recalling landmark battles such as the Battle of Hot Springs (1959) against Chinese forces and the Battle of Sardar Post (1965), where two CRPF companies valiantly repelled a full brigade of the Pakistan Army, inflicting significant casualties.

The CRPF’s Pivotal Role: Beyond Borders and Within

• Guardians of Internal Security: The CRPF stands as India’s premier central police force, entrusted with maintaining internal security. Its roles are diverse and critical, encompassing upholding law and order, conducting anti-insurgency and anti-Naxal operations, and ensuring security during elections.
• Recent Successes and Initiatives: Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan lauded the CRPF’s multifaceted roles, praising its long-standing commitment to maintaining peace in Jammu & Kashmir, the North East, and its recent successes in Chhattisgarh. He specifically highlighted the establishment of 149 Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in Maoist-dominated regions, which has significantly curtailed Naxalite activity.
• International Deployments: On the occasion of the 87th CRPF Raising Day, CRPF Director General Gyanendra Pratap Singh announced that CRPF commandos would soon be redeployed to secure the Indian embassy in Tripoli, Libya, following its reopening. This task mirrors the ongoing security provided to the Indian embassy in Baghdad, Iraq, since 2019, showcasing the force’s international footprint.
• Force Welfare and Inclusivity: The CRPF continues to prioritize the welfare of its personnel and their families. The DG noted that nearly 100% of transfers up to the rank of Deputy Commandant are now processed transparently through the SANTOS App. MoUs have also been signed with premier institutions for higher education, including engineering and medical colleges, to benefit the force’s families. The CRPF is also notable for being the only paramilitary force in India with six all-women battalions, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and the evolving role of women in national security.
• Excellence in Sports: Beyond operational duties, CRPF jawans have excelled in sports, bringing laurels to the force. In the past year, CRPF athletes have won an impressive 56 Gold, 48 Silver, and 70 Bronze Medals at various national and international events.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended his heartfelt greetings to all CRPF personnel on their 87th CRPF Raising Day, acknowledging their vital role in India’s security apparatus, especially in challenging internal security aspects. He praised their duty, courage, and steadfast commitment in the most testing situations, and commended their contributions to overcoming humanitarian challenges.

As the nation reflects on 86 years of gallantry and glory, the 87th CRPF Raising Day stands as a testament to the force’s unwavering spirit, immense sacrifices, and relentless dedication to ensuring the safety and integrity of India. The CRPF truly embodies the spirit of “Service and Loyalty,” continuing to inspire confidence and pride across the country.