Why is CRPF Foundation Day celebrated on July 27?
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), one of India’s armed police forces under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has a rich history that dates back to the pre-independence era. The force was established on July 27, 1939, as the Crown Representative’s Police, with the primary objective of maintaining law and order and protecting the country’s internal security. Today, the CRPF is celebrated as the country’s largest and most prominent central paramilitary force, with a critical role in maintaining the nation’s internal security and stability.
The CRPF was born out of a need to address the challenges faced by the British colonial administration in maintaining law and order in the country. Prior to its establishment, the British authorities had been facing difficulties in controlling the country’s vast territory and diverse population. The Crown Representative’s Police was created to provide an elite force that could respond to emerging threats and maintain order in the country.
Over the years, the CRPF has undergone several transformations and has played a crucial role in various national and international events. In 1947, after India gained independence, the force was renamed as the Central Reserve Police Force through an Act of Parliament on December 28, 1949. This marked a significant milestone in the history of the CRPF, as it was now an integral part of the newly independent nation.
Today, the CRPF is responsible for maintaining law and order in various parts of the country, including states that are prone to communal riots, terrorism, and extremism. The force has also been deployed in various international peacekeeping missions, including the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations in areas such as Congo, Lebanon, and Syria.
The CRPF has a strength of over 3.25 lakh personnel, making it the largest central paramilitary force in the country. The force has a diverse range of units, including the Special Task Force (STF), the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (COBRA), and the Rapid Action Force (RAF), among others. These units are equipped with advanced weapons and communication systems, enabling them to respond quickly and effectively to emerging threats.
On July 27 every year, the CRPF celebrates its Foundation Day, marking the anniversary of its establishment in 1939. The day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor, with various events and programs organized across the country. The celebrations typically include a ceremonial parade, followed by a march-past by the CRPF personnel. The day is also marked by the presentation of awards and medals to personnel who have distinguished themselves in the line of duty.
The CRPF Foundation Day is also an opportunity for the force to pay homage to its martyrs who have laid down their lives in the line of duty. The force has lost many personnel in various operations and encounters over the years, and their sacrifices are remembered and honored on this day.
In a recent tweet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the CRPF personnel on their Foundation Day, saying, “On CRPF Foundation Day, we pay homage to the bravehearts of the Central Reserve Police Force who have made the supreme sacrifice in the service of our nation. Their bravery and dedication have ensured the safety and security of our citizens.” (https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1949298559855018297)
In conclusion, the CRPF Foundation Day is celebrated on July 27 every year to commemorate the establishment of the force in 1939. The day is an opportunity for the CRPF to reflect on its rich history and its critical role in maintaining the nation’s internal security and stability. It is also a day to pay homage to the force’s martyrs who have laid down their lives in the line of duty.
News Source:
https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1949298559855018297
