Dehradun (Uttarakahnd) [India], October 21 (ANI): Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Tuesday paid tribute to braveheart on Police Commemoration Day, calling the police system 'the spine of the state's security and prosperity.'

Highlighting their critical role along sensitive borders, CM Dhami announced Rs 100 crore annually for the next three years for constructing police housing.

Addressing a public gathering, CM Dhami said, 'Our state borders are joined not only to international borders but also to Uttar Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh. Our state is geographically and strategically extremely sensitive. Consequently, the role of our police personnel in maintaining peace and security in our state becomes even more crucial. The police system of any state is the spine of its security and prosperity.'

CM Dhami further paid tribute to those who have made the supreme sacrifice of their lives for the safety of our country and citizens. 'The police forces faces many challenges... Even in times of disaster, our police have had to act promptly. Therefore, they deserve good arrangements. Therefore, I have announced that for the next three years, an amount of Rs 100 crore will be allocated annually for the construction of police housing,' he said.

Police Commemoration Day (October 21) is observed across the country to pay homage to police bravehearts. The main function is organised at National Police Memorial, New Delhi.

On October 21, 1959, ten valiant Policemen laid down their lives in an ambush laid by heavily armed Chinese troops at Hot Springs, Ladakh. Since then, October 21 is observed as Police Commemoration Day every year. In recognition of the sacrifices made by Police personnel and their paramount role in preserving national security and integrity, the Prime Minister dedicated National Police Memorial (NPM), Chanakyapuri, New Delhi to the nation on Police Commemoration Day 2018.

The Memorial gives Police Forces a sense of national identity, pride, unity of purpose, common history and destiny, besides reinforcing their commitment to protect the nation even at the cost of their lives. The Memorial comprises a Central Sculpture, the 'Wall of Valour' and a Museum. The Central Sculpture, which is a 30-foot-high granite monolith cenotaph, stands for strength, resilience and selfless service of Police personnel.

The museum is conceptualised as a historical and evolving exhibition on policing in India. The Memorial is a site of pilgrimage, a place of reverence for Police personnel and citizens alike.

As a part of the remembrances, CAPFs/CPOs organise various Commemorative Events at National Police Memorial from October 22 to 30, which include visits of family members of bravehearts, Police Band Display, motorcycle rallies, run for fallen policemen, blood donation camps, essay/painting competitions for children and display of video films showcasing sacrifice, valour and services of Police personnel. Similar programmes are organised by all the Police Forces across the country during this period. (ANI)