Jharkhand's Director General of Police (DGP) Tadasha Mishra publicly praised the Jharkhand Armed Police (JAP)-1 battalion for its significant contributions in the state's fight against extremism. The commendation came during the celebration of the battalion's 146th foundation day held at the JAP-I Ground in Doranda, Ranchi.
Honoring Valor and Sacrifice
Addressing the personnel, DGP Mishra highlighted the battalion's critical role in some of the most challenging circumstances. "This battalion has played a crucial role in fighting extremism in the state and has served in most difficult and trying circumstances," she stated. She expressed profound gratitude for their service, noting that words were insufficient to describe their contribution, especially in repelling several assaults by extremists.
In a significant announcement for the force's welfare, Mishra assured that the long-standing accommodation problems faced by JAP-I personnel would be actively considered by the police headquarters. This move is expected to boost the morale of the troops serving on the front lines.
A Legacy of Service Since 1880
JAP Commandant and Ranchi SSP Rakesh Ranjan provided a historical perspective on the elite battalion. He revealed that JAP-I was originally founded as the New Reserve Force in the year 1880. Following India's independence, the battalion's consistent bravery and excellence were recognized by the Centre, which honored it with the prestigious ‘Eastern Star’ medal.
SSP Ranjan also shed light on the heavy price paid by the battalion in the post-Jharkhand era. "After the formation of Jharkhand, 13 JAP-I personnel have been martyred fighting the extremists," he said, underscoring the unit's continued sacrifice for the state's security.
Anand Mela: A Celebration of Culture and Camaraderie
To mark the occasion, DGP Mishra inaugurated the Anand Mela (fun fair) at the JAP-I ground. The vibrant fair, set to continue until Thursday, features a diverse array of 95 stalls. Visitors can explore a wide range of products, including:
- Clothes and warm winter wear, featuring authentic Kashmiri products.
- Various types of delicacies and utensils.
- Traditional items like the Khukri (Nepali knife).
- Foods commonly used in hilly regions such as Darjeeling.
Each company within the battalion has set up its own stall, creating a spirit of friendly competition and showcasing regional diversity. A jawan explained the purpose behind the fair, stating, "Each company is displaying different items. The profit earned in the fair would be spent on meeting the requirement of their base camps." This initiative not only fosters unity but also directly benefits the operational needs of the units.
The event served as a dual platform—honoring the past and present sacrifices of the security forces while also building morale through community engagement and cultural celebration.
