In the heart of India’s bustling capital, Delhi, stands a dignified dedicatory honouring the courageous souls who set out their lives in the line of duty – the National Police Museum and Memorial. This landmark and the exhibition hall not only serve as a place of remembrance but also as a testament to the fearlessness, sacrifice, and relentless devotion of the Indian police forces. Do not miss this iconic museum in Delhi that serves as a great place of learning and also has free entry.
A Landmark of Bravery– Police Memorial
The National Police Memorial was inaugurated on October 21, 2018, by State head Narendra Modi. This day is also observed as the Police Commemoration Day, in memory of the ten police officers killed by Chinese soldiers in 1959 in Ladakh’s Hot Springs.
The focal point of the memorial is a 30-foot-tall, 238-ton dark stone monolith. The stone was obtained from Khammam in Telangana and is molded to address the versatility and strength of the police force. Further encompassing the monolith is the Wall of Valour with the names of over 35,000 police personnel who gave their lives for the nation. The simplicity of the design evokes a deep sense of reverence and honor. We felt shivers down our spine while walking across the alleys flanked by memorial stones inscribed with the names of the fallen heroes. Our heart goes out to the martyrs and their families and we are truly grateful for their service to the nation.
The memorial is outdoors with no shade around. Carry water with you and cover your head if you visit on a sunny day.
National Police Museum: An Excursion Through History
Underneath the memorial lies the Police Museum in the basement, an extensive space committed to exhibiting the set of experiences and evolution of Indian police administrations. The gallery is gotten to from the northern passage of the remembrance, driving guests down an incline into the storm cellar where the rich and celebrated past of the police powers is uncovered.
The exhibition hall took us on a sequential excursion, starting with the beginnings of policing in India. Displays detail the change of policing in antiquated times through the frontier period and into the present day.
Weapons, Ranks and Evolution
The National Police Museum flaunts a noteworthy assortment of weapons utilized by various divisions of the police divisions. From rare rifles and guns to cutting-edge arms, these displays symbolize the mechanical headways in policing along with the importance of the units that were overlooked in the past.
As you cross the entrance passage, the first exhibit on the left starts with the ranks and uniforms of police officials. gives an instructive understanding of the different positions inside the police force, making sense of the order and the obligations related to each position. This segment is especially illuminating for those new to the design of the Indian police framework. This display is opposite to a wall with names and logos of state police and non-state units.
Intriguing Stories from History
Among the most resounding segments are the showcases of chivalrous stories. These accounts feature individual demonstrations of grit and valor, giving individual bits of knowledge about the existence of the people who have served. Every story is a strong sign of the boldness and devotion expected in the line of obligation. For instance, NSG’s role in the 26/11 terror attack in Mumbai, the brave rescue operation in the 2013 Kedarnath flood, the contribution of CRPF to the battle of Sardar Post in 1965, and many more heroic stories are displayed in the Police Museum.
The most notable event is the Ladakh Hot Springs incident IN 1959. Ten Indian soldiers fought till their last breath, refusing to leave their post despite running out of ammunition and heavily outnumbered by the Chinese troops.
The last section of the Museum
Another section is dedicated to the animal squads of the police department. They have played a significant role in maintaining law, establishing communication, searching for clues, and rescuing lives on numerous occasions. Dogs, camels, pigeons, and horses are among the most used in the squads.
The Museum’s final exhibit focuses on the contributions of Indian police to UN peacekeeping and sports. A specific area is dedicated to police authors and their writings. This section includes displays a variety of books written by police officers as well as coffee table books published by various police agencies. This section also highlights outstanding operations carried out by other police departments on various occasions.
A Recognition for the Fallen
The National Police Museum is a place where families, relatives, and visitors come to offer their tribute and appreciate the significant contribution of the courageous souls. By saving the set of experiences and displaying the advancement of the police force, the exhibition hall guarantees that the tradition of the fallen legends keeps on motivating people in the future. It remains a guide of courage, helping us to remember the cost of harmony and the significance of regarding the people who safeguard it.
Visiting the National Police Museum and Memorial
For those intending to visit, the National Police Memorial is easily reachable from all parts of Delhi. It is located in the quiet vicinity of Chanakyapuri diplomatic enclave.
Operation timings
Museum timings are 9.30 am to 5.30 pm on all days except Mondays and National holidays. The Memorial complex remains open from 8 am to 8 pm on all days except Monday and National holidays.
Entry fee- None. It is free of cost. Photography and phones are also permitted at no charge.
Rules to observe
- Handbags or water bottles are restricted inside the museum. You can keep them in the locker at the reception. Once you leave the basement museum and visit the outdoor memorial, you can collect your bag from the reception.
- Flower bouquets may be placed at the memorial sculpture. However, lighting candles or diya is not permitted.
- You cannot carry tripods or selfie sticks.
Other facilities of the premises
- A café and a souvenir shop- Every purchase you make contributes towards the maintenance of the museum and memorial. Also, the souvenirs have a reasonable price.
- Wheelchair assistance- Request for one at the reception.
- Washroom and drinking water facility
- The parking area is allocated outside the memorial
Why should you visit the National Police Memorial and Museum
ingrainsThe National Police Museum is something beyond a recognition of the fallen; it is a festival of the soul of the Indian police powers. It inspires and helps us remember the grit and commitment the personnel have. As we strolled through the corridors of the memorial and stood before the monolith, we prayed for the departed souls, thanking them for their selfless service to the nation. The memorial and museum are one of a kind that ingrain a profound feeling of regard and appreciation for the individuals who have given their lives for our security. The National Police Museum is a must-visit for everyone and suitable for every age group.
