Amit Shah presents President's Colour to Puducherry Police for distinguished service (Lead)
Puducherry, Aug 9
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday presented the prestigious President's Colour to the Puducherry Police, marking a major recognition for the union territory's uniformed force for its service, discipline and professional achievements.
HM Shah formally handed over the President's Colour to the Ensign Officer of the Puducherry Police at a ceremonial event held at the Puducherry Armed Police Ground at Gorimedu.
Director General of Police Shalini Singh accompanied the Home Minister during the presentation.
Lieutenant Governor K. Kailashnathan, Chief Minister N. Rangasamy, senior police officers, government officials and other dignitaries attended the ceremony.
President Droupadi Murmu had on May 8 approved the conferment of the President's Colour, also known as Nishaan, on the Puducherry Police in recognition of its exceptional service, discipline and distinguished achievements.
The President's Colour is regarded as the highest honour that can be bestowed on a military unit or a police force in a state or union territory.
The distinction recognises an organisation's record of service and contribution over the years. Several branches of the armed and security forces, including the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard, as well as police forces of various states, have previously received the honour.
Elaborate security arrangements were put in place across Puducherry for HM Shah's visit and the presentation ceremony. More than 1,000 personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force and Puducherry Police were deployed at key locations, while vehicle inspections were intensified at entry points to the Union Territory and within the city.
Traffic restrictions and diversions were imposed along the Home Minister's travel route, particularly on stretches connecting the Gorimedu area, Raj Nivas and Puducherry airport.
Authorities also prohibited the operation of drones, unmanned aerial vehicles and other flying devices as part of the security measures.
HM Shah arrived in Puducherry on Saturday night after completing engagements in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.
He was received by Governor Kailashnathan, CM Rangasamy and senior government representatives.
Earlier on Saturday, HM Shah flew from Maharashtra to Chennai before travelling by helicopter to Tiruvannamalai. He reached the temple town at around 5.20 p.m. after leaving Chennai at approximately 4.15 p.m. During his Tiruvannamalai visit, HM Shah offered prayers at the historic Arunachaleswarar Temple and also visited the Sri Ramana Maharshi Ashram before proceeding to Puducherry for Sunday's official programme.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Congratulations to Puducherry Police. But I hope this recognition also comes with better working conditions and modern equipment for our police personnel. They risk their lives daily and deserve more support than just ceremonial honours. Respect to all the officers!
Nice to see the Home Minister visiting our temples too - offered prayers at Arunachaleswarar and visited Ramana Maharshi Ashram. Shows respect for our spiritual heritage. 🇮🇳
The President's Colour is indeed a prestigious honour. DGP Shalini Singh must be feeling proud. However, I wish such recognitions would also highlight the critical shortage of personnel and the need for better community policing in smaller UTs like Puducherry. Still, this is a moment of pride for the whole territory.
Over 1,000 personnel deployed, drone bans, vehicle checks - wow, security for this event was definitely military-grade. Meanwhile, the police themselves get this honour for their consistent work. Feels good to see our forces being appreciated at such a high level. 👮♂️
Congratulations to Puducherry Police! A proud moment for all officers who work day and night for our safety. While we debate about procedures and errors, we must also acknowledge the sacrifice and professionalism of the uniformed forces. Jai Hind 🇮🇳
M Michael C