New Delhi: The Union Home Ministry on Friday announced that 1,364 police personnel from various security forces and agencies have been awarded the Kendriya Grih Mantri Dakshata Padak in recognition of their exemplary work in special operations.

The awards were conferred on personnel involved in anti-Maoist operations, counterterrorism actions, and anti-drug operations. The announcement comes amid the Centre’s ongoing efforts to eliminate Left-Wing Extremism by March 31, 2026, and its goal to make India drug-free by 2047.

The Kendriya Grih Mantri Dakshata Padak is announced annually on October 31, coinciding with the birth anniversary of former Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. In addition to operational personnel, 102 medals were awarded to individuals from intelligence, forensic sciences, and police departments for their contributions in investigation, intelligence, and forensic work.

State-Wise Distribution

Among the state police forces, Chhattisgarh Police topped the list with 222 personnel receiving the medal for their role in anti-Maoist operations. Awardees ranged from constables to senior officers, all actively engaged in operations aimed at eliminating Maoist violence within the next five months. Delhi Police received 30 medals, while Jammu & Kashmir Police personnel were awarded 19 medals for their counterterror operations. Jharkhand Police received 15 medals for their efforts in anti-Maoist operations.

Paramilitary and Central Agencies

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), India’s largest paramilitary force with over 300,000 personnel, had the highest number of awardees, with 1,033 personnel being honored. The CRPF personnel were recognized for their counterterror operations in Jammu & Kashmir and anti-Maoist operations across the country.

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and Gujarat Police were awarded seven and 14 medals, respectively, for their role in anti-drug operations. These operations included raids at sea to intercept drug consignments originating from Pakistan and Iran, busting “mother ships” used to transport narcotics via marine routes — a method increasingly favored by smugglers in recent years.

The awards highlight the dedication and valor of India’s police and paramilitary personnel in addressing multiple internal security challenges, ranging from terrorism and insurgency to drug trafficking, while reinforcing the Centre’s commitment to ensuring safety, law, and order across the country.