By Anil Raturi
Dehradun, 9 Nov: Uttarakhand as a state came into being on 9 November 2000. On 6 November 2026, the “President’s Police Colour” was presented to Uttarakhand Police by the Union Home Minister at a colourful ceremonial parade at the Police Lines Dehradun.
In August 2000, when the UP Government deputed me as Officer on Special Duty (OSD Uttaranchal) and sent me to Dehradun for assisting in establishing the State Police Headquarters and raise the Police Force of the fledgling new State of Uttarakhand (then Uttaranchal) we found ourselves up against a formidable challenge. There was no budget or infrastructure available!
We had no offices, residences, vehicles, telephones, etc., and yet we were expected to take on the onerous sovereign duties and role of State Policing on 9 November 2000!
With meagre resources, high hopes, loads of enthusiasm and steadfast determination, we embarked upon the uphill journey of building a new Force from scratch!
When that very Force’s work, professionalism and extraordinary journey of 25 years was recognised and honoured, it was personally very satisfying!
It was also a proud moment to see the young lady IPS officer, Niharika Tomar, leading a flawless Parade as its Commander!
Her deportment, drill, word of command and confidence were extraordinary!
She personified the new State’s self-belief!
The “President’s Colour” (Flag) (known in Hindi as Rashtrapati ka Nishaan) is the highest ceremonial honour bestowed upon a Military unit, formation, training institute, or State/UT Police Force in India.
In historical combat, regimental “Colours” (flags) acted as rallying points. Soldiers rallied around them in the chaos of battle so they knew their position and that of their allies.
Losing a regimental flag meant losing the unit’s honour, while protecting it meant defending the core identity of the regiment. Losing the “Colour” was considered a supreme disgrace, while defending it was an act of valour!
Today, “Colours” are preserved for solemn Military and Police ceremonies and parades.
It is not an individual gallantry award, but a collective institutional distinction awarded to an entire unit or force in recognition of at least 25 years of exceptional, unbroken service to the nation in, both, peace and war.
The “Colour” (a flag) is a symbol of pride and loyalty, it represents the spirit, honour, and history of the unit.
