16th Raising Day of 6th IRB marked with pride, precision

Pride and precision filled the air at the 6th India Reserve Battalion (IRB), Dhaula Kuan, where the force marked its 16th Raising Day with an impressive parade that drew admiration from the entire gathering. Urban Development, Housing and Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani attended as the chief guest, lighting the ceremonial lamp after inspecting the parade and taking the salute. He later honoured police personnel for their exceptional service.

Addressing officers, jawans and citizens, the minister praised the indomitable courage, discipline and commitment of Himachal Pradesh Police. He described the Raising Day as an occasion to acknowledge the force’s tireless efforts in maintaining law and order, preventing crime, regulating traffic, ensuring public safety, responding swiftly to emergencies and promoting harmony across communities.

Dharmani highlighted a series of reforms introduced by the state government to strengthen policing and improve personnel welfare. He noted that diet money for police employees had been increased significantly from Rs 210 to Rs 1,000. He also emphasised that the recently conducted police recruitment was completed with total transparency, with 1,100 new constables set to receive appointment letters soon. The process to fill remaining departmental vacancies is continuing, he added.

The minister stated that the government had accelerated long-pending promotions within the police department, ensuring timely advancement for eligible officers and employees. He commended the force for its dedication, mentioning that many personnel had fulfilled their duties despite life-threatening circumstances. He added that public faith in the police remains strong because timely and fair police action often determines the direction of justice.

Reiterating the government’s zero-tolerance policy against drug trafficking, Dharmani said the state had intensified its fight against “chitta” under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. Assets worth crores had been confiscated and numerous offenders jailed. He urged every citizen to commit to eradicating the drug menace, adding that strict disciplinary action is being taken against government employees found involved in such activities. Modern vehicles have also been provided to the police for more effective patrolling and traffic management, he said.

During the ceremony, ASI Sandeep Kumar, Constable Rajesh Kumar and Class-IV employee Madan Lal were honoured for exemplary service. Cultural performers from the battalion, along with students from Government Senior Secondary School Kohlar and Rampur Bharapur, were also felicitated.

Following the event, the minister inspected the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Dhaula Kuan. Nahan MLA Ajay Solanki attended as the special guest. Commandant Bhag Mal Thakur presented the battalion’s administrative report and read out the Director General of Police’s message after honouring the chief guest, MLA Solanki and Sirmaur Deputy Commissioner Priyanka Verma with traditional shawls, caps and mementoes. Deputy Commandant Praveer Thakur welcomed the dignitaries, while Assistant Commandant Praveen Thakur delivered the vote of thanks.