4 cops get special duty medal for service in remote border regions

In recognition of their distinguished service in the remote and strategically sensitive border areas of Himachal Pradesh, four police officers have been awarded the prestigious Police (Special Duty) Medal.

Among them, Manav Verma, currently serving as Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) at Police Headquarters, has been honoured with the Police (Special Duty) Medal with First Bar. Verma had previously served as the Superintendent of Police in the tribal district of Lahaul and Spiti from August 30, 2020, to February 9, 2023, and his tenure in the high-altitude region was marked by exemplary dedication and professionalism.

The three other officers—Ashok Rattan, Rohit Mrigpuri and Naresh Sharma—have been conferred with the Police (Special Duty) Medal without Bar for their notable contributions during their postings in similar difficult terrains. Rattan is currently the Superintendent of Police in Police District Nurpur and had served as SP in Kinnaur from August 23, 2021, to August 24, 2022. Mrigpuri, now posted as Deputy Superintendent of Police in the 2nd Indian Reserve Battalion at Sakoh in Kangra district, had earlier held the charge of SDPO in Kaza, Lahaul and Spiti, from July 25, 2021, to February 9, 2023. Naresh Sharma, presently the SDPO in Rampur, Shimla district, was recognised for his service as DSP (Headquarters) in Kinnaur during the same period.

Director General of Police (DGP) Dr Atul Verma said these awards reflect the officers’ resilience, commitment and tireless efforts to maintain law and order in some of the most remote and high-altitude areas of the state.