National Police Memorial
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | December 22, 2018 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 25 |
| Quantity | 160,000 |
| Perforation | 13¾ x 13¾ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Smt. Alka Sharma |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN BL202 Yvert et Tellier IN BF189 Stanley Gibbons IN MS3562 |
| Themes | Monuments | Police | Sculptures |
A Monument of Honour and Sacrifice
The National Police Memorial (NPM), located in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, stands as a solemn tribute to the martyrdom of Indian policemen who laid down their lives in the line of duty. It is the only National Memorial in the country dedicated exclusively to the sacrifices of police personnel, symbolizing their courage, devotion, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation.
The memorial not only honors those who made the supreme sacrifice but also instills a sense of pride, unity, and purpose among the police forces of India, reminding them of their noble mission to protect the country and uphold the law under all circumstances.
Inauguration and Historical Significance
The National Police Memorial was dedicated to the nation by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India on Police Commemoration Day, October 21, 2018. This date holds deep significance—it marks the anniversary of the Hot Springs incident of 1959 in Ladakh, when ten brave Indian policemen were ambushed and martyred by heavily armed Chinese troops in Aksai Chin. Their supreme courage and sacrifice are forever etched in the nation’s collective memory, and October 21 continues to be observed annually as Police Commemoration Day across India.
An Ode to the Courage of Policemen
The NPM symbolizes the valor, dedication, and selfless service of policemen who protect India’s borders, combat militancy and terrorism, prevent crime, and maintain law and order across the nation. Policemen also play vital roles in disaster response and the protection of national assets.
Since Independence, a total of 34,844 policemen have been martyred (as of August 2018) in the line of duty. On average, over 450 police personnel sacrifice their lives every year, reaffirming their unflinching devotion to duty and the safety of fellow citizens.
Architectural and Symbolic Grandeur
The National Police Memorial comprises three major components —
- The Central Sculpture
- The Wall of Valour
- The National Police Museum
The Central Sculpture – Symbol of Strength and Sacrific
At the heart of the memorial stands the Central Sculpture, a 30-foot-tall vertical granite pillar designed by the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA). Carved from a single block of ebony-black granite, it represents strength, resilience, and permanence — qualities inherent in every police officer.
The pillar’s polished and unpolished surfaces reflect the balance between the hardships and honor of a police officer’s life. The “Jeeva Jyot”, an eternal flame, burns near the sculpture, symbolizing the undying spirit and eternal memory of police martyrs who gave their lives for the nation.
The Wall of Valour – Immortalizing the Martyrs
The ‘Wall of Valour’ is engraved with the names of all police personnel who have sacrificed their lives in service to the nation. Each name etched on the wall stands as a beacon of courage, dedication, and selflessness.
The wall is designed to grow over time, allowing new names to be added each year, ensuring that every fallen hero receives their rightful place in history. It is a poignant reminder of the bravery of those who continue to serve, despite the ever-present risks.
The National Police Museum – Preserving Legacy
The museum within the NPM premises showcases the rich history and evolution of policing in India. It features:
- Historical artifacts and documents
- Police gazette notifications
- Unique weapons and uniforms
- Displays from Central and State Police Forces
A special section of the museum is dedicated to the memory of martyrs, highlighting their courage and inspiring future generations. It serves as a permanent national-level exhibition on the heritage, challenges, and contributions of the Indian police forces.
A Living Memorial of Dedication
The National Police Memorial is not merely a static monument; it is a living, evolving tribute that continues to grow as new heroes are added to the nation’s roll of honor. It embodies the spirit of service, sacrifice, and solidarity that defines India’s police forces — men and women who stand resolutely to ensure the nation’s peace and security, often at the cost of their lives.