Today marks the Central Reserve Police Force's (CRPF) Raising Day, commemorating its formation on July 27, 1939, as the Crown Representative's Police, before India's independence.
Following Indian independence, the force was reconstituted as the Central Reserve Police Force with the enactment of the CRPF Act on December 28, 1949. Since then, the CRPF has played a multifaceted role in maintaining law and order, counter-insurgency, and election security.
Notably, the CRPF played a significant role in the 1999 Parliamentary elections too.
In addition to its domestic duties, the CRPF has also contributed to international peacekeeping efforts through its deployment in United Nations missions.
India's largest central armed police force:
With a sanctioned strength of over 300,000 personnel and 247 battalions, the CRPF is India's largest central armed police force, making it a vital component of the country's internal security apparatus.
Director General, an Indian Police Service officer, heads CRPF, who is supported by a team of senior officials. This includes three Additional Director Generals, nine Inspector Generals, a Financial Advisor, and a Director (Medical).
The force is classified into ten administrative sectors, each headed by an Inspector General. These sectors are further divided into administrative and/or operational ranges, led by Deputy Inspector Generals (DIGs) of Police. Additionally, Group Centres are also headed by DIGs, ensuring effective management and coordination.
The financial management of the CRPF is overseen by a Financial Advisor, an Indian Revenue Service officer of the rank of Joint Secretary, who is assisted by Deputy Advisors from various services, including the Indian Audit and Accounts Service, Indian Telecom Service, and Indian Civil Account Service. This team ensures the efficient allocation and utilization of resources within the force.
Special Units of CRPF:
RAF - Rapid Action Force is a 15-battalion strong unit formed in 1992 to handle communal and civil unrest. It is designed to respond quickly to crises and has been recognized for its service with the President's color award in 2003. The RAF has a unique organizational structure, with the smallest functional unit being a 'Team' led by an inspector, consisting of riot control, tear gas, and fire elements. Each company also has a team composed of female personnel to effectively handle situations involving women demonstrators.
The Special Duty Group is a battalion-sized unit responsible for providng security for the Prime Minister's official residence and office, as well as during outdoor functions. However, on May 20, 2024, the Parliamentary Duty Group (PDG) of CRPF was merged with the VIP security wing due to a security breach issue.
CoBRA is the CRPF's special operation unit, created in 2008 to counter the Naxalite movement in India. This elite unit is trained in guerrilla warfare and has been deployed in various states affected by Left Wing Extremism (LWE) and insurgency. CoBRA has received numerous awards, including four Shaurya Chakras, one Kirti Chakra, and several other commendations, solidifying its reputation as one of the best Central Armed Police forces in the country.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah's wish on raising day:
Union Home Minister Amit Shah extended his greetings to the CRPF personnel and their families on the occasion of the force's raising day on Saturday, praising the bravery and dedication of the CRPF soldiers, who have consistently put national security above their own lives and achieved victory every time. Shah acknowledged the CRPF's mission to ensure national security since its inception in 1939 and paid tribute to the martyrs who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is India's premier central police force, responsible for maintaining internal security and undertaking various law enforcement tasks. As one of the world's largest paramilitary forces, the CRPF has played a crucial role in ensuring the country's safety and security. Shah's message on the CRPF's raising day recognizes the force's unwavering commitment to protecting the nation and honors the sacrifices of its brave personnel.
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