On the occasion of its 77th Raising Day, celebrated nationwide as ‘IPS Day,’ the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA) in Hyderabad paid a profound tribute to the enduring legacy of the Indian Police Service this Monday. The commemoration was rendered uniquely significant by a special outreach to Shri H.M. Joshi, the last surviving officer from the service’s foundational 1948 batch.
A Living Link to History: A Message from Shri H.M. Joshi
In a poignant and historic moment, Shri H.M. Joshi, now in his late nineties, conveyed a powerful message to the entire IPS fraternity:
“I wish all the IPS officers of the country a happy 77th anniversary. Keep the flag flying high.”
This connection, facilitated by Shri Rajgopal, a 1965-batch IPS officer and former Director of the NPA, served to bridge generations, ensuring that officers in training today remain intimately connected to the service’s origins and founding principles.
Honoring a Distinguished Legacy: Tributes to Veteran Officers
The academy also extended its respects to another stalwart, Shri J.S. Bajwa of the 1949 batch from the Punjab cadre, who will celebrate his centenary in February 2026. Officers like Shri Joshi and Shri Bajwa represent a living continuum, linking the formative years of the IPS to its contemporary mission.
A Historical Retrospective: The Evolution of the IPS
The Indian Police Service was formally constituted in 1948, succeeding the Indian Imperial Police of the British Raj. Its inaugural cohort trained at the Central Police Training College, established on September 15, 1948, in Mount Abu, Rajasthan.
The Academy’s Illustrious Journey:
1948: Founded as the Central Police Training College in Mount Abu.
1967: Rechristened the National Police Academy to reflect its all-India mandate.
1974: Renamed the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in honor of India’s first Home Minister.
1975: Relocated to its current, modern campus in Hyderabad, which now provides world-class training for IPS probationers and senior officers alike.
A Legacy for the Future: Inspiring Generations to Come
The 77th Raising Day was more than a ceremony; it was a powerful affirmation of continuity and dedication. By honoring its pioneering officers, the SVPNPA powerfully reaffirmed the core values of integrity, selfless service, and unwavering commitment upon which the IPS was built. Officers across the nation observed the day with immense pride, reflecting on a storied history that continues to guide their path forward.
