Guwahati, 21 February (HS): Union Home Minister Amit Shah attended the 87th Raising Day ceremony of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) held at the Arjun Bhogeswar Baruah Sports Complex in Sarusajai, Guwahati, on Saturday.

As the chief guest at the parade organised by the CRPF, the Home Minister inspected the ceremonial parade and took the salute. A grand programme was arranged by the force to mark its foundation day. Addressing the gathering, Shah lauded the dedication, bravery and sacrifices of CRPF personnel in safeguarding the nation’s internal security.

On the occasion, attractive drill displays and band performances were presented by CRPF contingents. Modern armed vehicles and equipment used by the force in various operations were also showcased during the event.

Shah, who is on a two-day visit to Assam, is scheduled to visit Kachutoli in Sonapur later in the day to lay the foundation stone of the 10th Assam Police Battalion headquarters.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, CRPF Director General GP Singh and other senior officials were present at the ceremony.

Paying tribute to the martyrs of the force, Shah said that for 86 years the CRPF has strengthened the country’s internal security with exceptional performance, courage, patience and sacrifice. He noted that 2,270 personnel have laid down their lives in the line of duty. He highlighted that the force played a crucial role in restoring peace in Jammu and Kashmir, combating Left-wing extremism and stabilising the Northeast region. He further stated that 700 personnel sacrificed their lives in the Northeast, 540 in Jammu and Kashmir and 79 in Assam alone while protecting the nation.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash