July 27 is commemorated as the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Raising Day. The largest paramilitary force in India, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) stands as a premier central police force of the Union of India, entrusted with the critical task of maintaining internal security.
Initially established as the Crown Representatives Police on July 27, 1939, in response to escalating political turmoil and unrest within the princely states, the CRPF has evolved into one of the oldest and most distinguished central paramilitary forces in the country. The force’s creation was notably influenced by the Madras Resolution of the All-India Congress Committee in 1936, which underscored the need for a robust internal security apparatus.
Post-independence, the CRPF underwent a significant transformation. On December 28, 1949, through an Act of Parliament, it was renamed as the Central Reserve Police Force. This legislative act not only bestowed the new name but also established the CRPF as an armed entity under the jurisdiction of the union government. Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel, the then Home Minister, envisioned a multifaceted role for the force, aligning its functions with the evolving needs of a newly independent nation.
Today, the CRPF is one of the Armed Forces of the Union of India under the Ministry of Home Affairs, entrusted with various duties such as maintaining law and order, counter-insurgency operations, and anti-Naxal operations, in aid to the states. Its expansive mandate reflects its critical role in ensuring the nation’s internal security and stability.
“As we celebrate the 86th Foundation Day of the CRPF, we honour its rich legacy and commend the force for its unwavering commitment to the security and stability of India. The CRPF’s journey from Its inception to its current status as a substantial and diverse organization is a testament to its adaptability, resilience, and dedication to serving the nation,” stated the Press Information Bureau (PIB).
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Key Roles and Responsibilities
CRPF assumed its current name on December 28, 1949, following the enactment of the CRPF Act. Over time, the CRPF has evolved into a formidable organization, now comprising 246 battalions. The force is headed by a Director General and is further divided into four zones located in Jammu, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Guwahati, each under the command of Special Directors General (DGs). The CRPF, with its nationwide presence and diverse skillset, fulfils a critical role in maintaining India’s internal security. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its key responsibilities:
Maintaining Law and Order:
Crowd Control and Riot Control: CRPF personnel are trained in crowd management techniques to handle large gatherings, protests, and demonstrations.
Counter-Insurgency Operations: CRPF battalions deployed in areas facing insurgency threats are well-equipped and specially trained for combat operations.
Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) Management: CRPF units specialize in tackling LWE activities in Naxal-affected regions. They conduct operations in close coordination with state police forces, focusing on area sanitization, engaging with local communities, and providing security for infrastructure development projects in these areas.
Security and Protection:
VIP Security: About 5.68% of CRPF personnel are assigned to VIP security, mainly in North-Eastern States, Jammu and Kashmir, Bihar, and Andhra Pradesh. They protect Governors, Chief Ministers, Ministers, MPs, and MLAs in states like Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, and Mizoram. CRPF also provides static guard services for the Prime Minister, Union Ministers, and other dignitaries nationwide.
Critical Infrastructure Protection: Approximately 8.5% of CRPF personnel are dedicated to protecting critical Central and State Government facilities, especially in insurgency-affected regions. This includes securing government secretariats, Doordarshan Kendras, telephone exchanges, banks, hydroelectric projects, and jails. Additionally, CRPF ensures the security of Parliament House, safeguarding it against potential threats.
Election Security: The CRPF plays a vital role in securing Parliamentary and Assembly Elections nationwide, collaborating closely with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Election Commission of India, and other security forces. It forms State-level Coordination Groups and deploys troops strategically based on security assessments. Control rooms operate round-the-clock for seamless coordination, issuing unique IDs and providing specialized training to ensure efficient and secure election processes.
The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has extended greetings to all CRPF personnel on their Raising Day and said that their unwavering dedication and relentless service to the nation are truly commendable.
The Prime Minister said in a post on X: “On the occasion of their Raising Day, my greetings to all @crpfindia personnel. Their unwavering dedication and relentless service to the nation are truly commendable. They have always stood for the highest standards of courage and commitment. Their role in keeping our nation safe is also paramount.”
Rahul Gandhi, Leader of opposition, Lok Sabha also shared on X, “On the 86th Raising Day of the CRPF, we honor the brave personnel dedicated to protecting our nation. With a legacy of valor, the CRPF has been vital in ensuring India’s security. We salute the ultimate sacrifices of our courageous soldiers and express deep gratitude to their families. Their unwavering bravery and commitment inspire us daily.”
