Gangtok: President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday conferred the prestigious President’s Police Colour upon the Sikkim Police at a grand ceremony held at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok. With this honour, Sikkim has become the 15th state in the country and the third state in the Northeast to receive the prestigious recognition.
The President’s Police Colour, also known as ‘Nishaan’, is considered the highest ceremonial honour awarded to a state or central police force in India for exceptional service, bravery, and professionalism.
Police personnel honoured with the President’s Police Colour are authorised to wear a special emblem on their uniforms.
Addressing the gathering, President Murmu said she was delighted to confer the honour upon the Sikkim Police and described it as a proud moment for the entire force.
She praised the Sikkim Police, established in 1897, for its dedication towards maintaining law and order in the strategically important state.
The President also stressed the need for a change in policing mindset, saying police forces should act as allies and guides for citizens rather than merely enforcing control.
“When the police become partners of the people, public trust in the force becomes stronger,” she said.
Highlighting emerging security challenges, Murmu urged the police to adopt modern technology to combat cybercrime, online fraud, hacking, and deepfake threats. She said police personnel must become skilled in cybersecurity and digital investigation to tackle modern-day crimes effectively.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang welcomed the honour and called it a matter of immense pride for both Sikkim and the state police force.
In a social media post, Tamang said the recognition reflects the force’s dedication, discipline, courage, professionalism, and selfless service in maintaining peace and security across the state.
He added that the honour would further strengthen the commitment of the police force towards serving people with integrity and working for the peace and progress of the state and the nation.