NEEMUCH, April 17, 2025 – Union Home Minister Amit Shah lauded the Central Reserve Police Force as a cornerstone of India’s internal security during the CRPF Raising Day celebrations in Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh, on April 17, 2025. Addressing jawans and officers, Shah described the CRPF as a “pillar of peace and valor,” recognising their critical role in combating terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, stabilizing the Northeast, and dismantling Naxal networks in the Red Corridor.
Shah spotlighted the CRPF’s elite CoBRA units, stating, “CoBRA’s name alone strikes fear into Naxalites, shrinking their influence to a handful of districts.” He expressed confidence that India would be Naxal-free by March 2026, crediting the CRPF’s persistent operations. In Kashmir, he praised their coordination with the Army and J&K Police, noting an 80% drop in civilian casualties from terrorism over the past decade. In the Northeast, Shah highlighted 12 peace agreements since 2019, with over 10,500 insurgents surrendering since 2014, attributing these successes to the CRPF’s efforts.
Reflecting on his recent engagements, including a December 2024 review at CRPF headquarters in New Delhi, Shah commended the force’s adaptability in challenging terrains. He reiterated directives for “area domination” in Jammu’s hilly regions and zero infiltration along borders, underscoring their strategic role in national security. The CRPF’s community outreach, such as the CRPF Cup cricket tournament in Srinagar, was also praised for engaging Kashmiri youth and fostering trust.
Shah paid tribute to the CRPF’s sacrifices, recalling the 2019 Pulwama attack that claimed 40 lives, and emphasized their unwavering resolve. He linked the force’s efforts to broader policy shifts, citing the 2019 abrogation of Article 370 as a catalyst for Kashmir’s integration, stating, “Separatism has been replaced by unity, with even Hurriyat voices renouncing division.” In the Red Corridor, he noted Bastar’s emergence as a tourism hub as evidence of the CRPF’s impact on curbing Maoist violence.
The Home Minister honored CRPF personnel with gallantry awards and announced enhanced welfare measures, including expedited compassionate appointments for martyrs’ families. He also encouraged the force to promote Hindi in operations to strengthen national unity, aligning with cultural integration goals.
The CRPF, the world’s largest paramilitary force, continues to shape India’s security landscape, bridging peace and progress in its most volatile regions.