Pune Police Officers Honored with Prestigious President's Medal Ahead of Republic Day
In a significant recognition of exemplary service, multiple police officers from Pune and its surrounding regions have been nominated for the prestigious President's Medal for Distinguished Services, coinciding with the celebrations of the 77th Republic Day. This honor highlights their outstanding contributions to law enforcement and public safety in Maharashtra.
Distinguished Officers from Pimpri Chinchwad Police
Two notable officers from the Pimpri Chinchwad police force have been selected for this high accolade. Assistant Commissioner of Police Vitthal Kubade and Police Inspector Amol Phadtare have been recognized for their dedicated service across various police establishments. Both officers have demonstrated exceptional commitment, including participation in critical anti-naxal operations. Inspector Phadtare, in particular, has served with the elite C-60 Commando squad in the naxal-affected areas of Gadchiroli district, showcasing bravery and strategic expertise in challenging environments.
Recognition for Deputy Superintendent of Police Dayanand Gawade
Another distinguished recipient is Deputy Superintendent of Police Dayanand Gawade, currently attached to the Pune unit of the State Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB). With an impressive career spanning 29 years in police service, Gawade has received a remarkable 1,170 rewards for his exemplary work. During his tenure at the Local Crime Branch (LCB), he played a pivotal role in the arrest of 440 wanted accused and facilitated the recovery of 47 firearms, underscoring his effectiveness in combating crime and enhancing community security.
Additional Honorees from Pune Police
The list of awardees extends to other commendable officers, including Police Inspector Avinash Shankarrao Shilimkar, who currently heads the Local Crime Branch (LCB) of the Pune Rural Police. Shilimkar has worked with various police establishments across the state and has been instrumental in detecting sensitive cases. Notably, in January 2023, he led an investigation into the tragic incident where seven family members were found in the Bhima River in Pune's Daund taluka. His team's diligent work revealed that this was not a case of mass suicide but rather an alleged murder, demonstrating his critical role in uncovering the truth and ensuring justice.
Other Nominees for the President's Medal
Further nominations include Assistant Sub Inspector Pradip Sahebrao Sawant of the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) Group – 1, along with Havaldars Rajendra Ghangar and Sunil Lande, both posted at the Yerwada Central Prison. These individuals have shown unwavering dedication to their duties, contributing to the overall safety and order within the state's correctional facilities and reserve forces.
This collective recognition of Pune police officers not only celebrates their individual achievements but also reflects the broader commitment of Maharashtra's law enforcement agencies to uphold justice and protect citizens. As the nation prepares to mark the 77th Republic Day, these awards serve as a testament to the hard work and sacrifice of police personnel who strive to maintain peace and security across the region.
