Maharashtra Police Personnel Honored with Prestigious President's Medals
On the eve of Republic Day, the Centre announced the recipients of the President's Police Medal, with seventy-five Maharashtra police personnel being recognized for their exceptional service and bravery. The awards include thirty-one medals for gallantry, four President's Medals for distinguished service, and forty medals for meritorious service, highlighting the dedication of law enforcement officers across the state.
Prominent Recipients from Pune and Surrounding Areas
Among the distinguished awardees is Special Inspector General of Police, State CID, Sudhir Hiremath, who will receive the medal for meritorious service. Hiremath has served with various units including the Central Bureau of Investigation in Pune, Pimpri Chinchwad, and other police departments in Maharashtra, showcasing a long and commendable career in law enforcement.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Vitthal Kubade has been awarded the medal for distinguished service, marking his second President's Medal. Currently posted as the ACP of Pimpri division under the Pimpri Chinchwad commissionerate, Kubade joined the force in 1993 after training at the Maharashtra Police Academy in Nashik. His career includes postings in Naxalite-affected areas such as Goregaon, Salekasa, and Shivhora, where he demonstrated outstanding performance during operations. Previously awarded the President's Medal for meritorious service in 2018, Kubade has accumulated an impressive record of 1,200 rewards and over 450 commendation certificates throughout his service.
Gallantry Awards for Brave Officers
Inspector Amol Phadtare has been honored with the gallantry medal, also his second President's Medal. Currently stationed at Chikhali police station, Phadtare began his career as a sub-inspector in 2014. After training, he was posted to Gadchiroli, where he excelled as part of the elite C-60 commando unit. His exemplary performance in 2021 earned him the President's Medal for gallantry in 2023, underscoring his courage and commitment in challenging environments.
Notably, thirty-one personnel from Gadchiroli have been recognized for their gallantry in the fight against Naxalism, reflecting the ongoing efforts to maintain security in affected regions.
Additional Awardees from Various Departments
Other recipients include Deputy Superintendent of Police Dayanand Gawade of the state Anti-Corruption Bureau in Pune, who will receive the medal for meritorious service. Gawade has worked in multiple districts including Raigad and Pune rural, contributing significantly to anti-corruption efforts.
Senior Inspector Avinash Shilimkar, posted with the local crime branch of Pune rural police, is also set to receive the medal for meritorious service, acknowledging his investigative prowess.
In the realm of correctional services, Havaldar Rajendra Dhangar of Yerawada Open Prison and Havaldar Sunil Bhausaheb Lande of Yerawada Central Prison have been awarded the medal for distinguished service for their substantial contributions to rehabilitation and prison management.
Furthermore, Assistant Sub-Inspector Pradeep Sahebrao Sawant of the State Reserve Police Force Group I in Wanowrie will be decorated with the medal for distinguished service, adding to the diverse group of honorees.
These awards serve as a testament to the hard work, bravery, and dedication of Maharashtra police personnel, reinforcing their vital role in upholding law and order across the state.
