New Delhi:
A solemn tribute ceremony was held at the National Police Memorial in New Delhi as part of the National Disaster Response Force’s (NDRF) Shaheed Smriti event. The annual observance honours the memory of NDRF personnel who lost their lives while performing rescue and relief duties during disasters across India.
The event was attended by senior officers from the Ministry of Home Affairs, NDRF Director General, and representatives from various disaster management agencies. Families of the martyrs were also present to pay their respects. The ceremony began with the laying of wreaths at the National Police Memorial, followed by a two-minute silence in remembrance of the brave personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Addressing the gathering, NDRF Director General emphasized the selfless dedication and courage of the force’s personnel who respond to every emergency—be it floods, earthquakes, cyclones, or industrial accidents—often risking their own lives to save others. He reiterated the NDRF’s commitment to strengthening disaster response capabilities and enhancing community preparedness across the country.
The Shaheed Smriti event highlighted the significant role played by NDRF since its inception in 2006 under the Disaster Management Act. Over the years, NDRF teams have carried out hundreds of rescue operations, both in India and abroad, earning widespread recognition for their professionalism and humanitarian service.
During the ceremony, the families of fallen heroes were honoured for their resilience and contribution to the nation. Officials also shared stories of bravery from past operations, including rescue missions during the Kedarnath floods, the Odisha cyclone, and the recent Himachal Pradesh landslides. These stories served as reminders of the human cost behind every successful disaster response operation.
In addition to paying homage, the event served as an opportunity to reaffirm the NDRF’s focus on training, modernization, and inter-agency coordination. Demonstrations of disaster management techniques and equipment were also held to showcase the force’s preparedness for future challenges.
The National Police Memorial, where the event took place, stands as a symbol of gratitude to all personnel who have laid down their lives in service to the nation. Its inclusion as the venue for Shaheed Smriti underscores the unity among India’s security and rescue forces in upholding the values of duty, courage, and sacrifice.
Officials concluded the ceremony by encouraging citizens to recognize the importance of disaster awareness and community participation in building a resilient nation.
The Shaheed Smriti event once again reminded the nation of the sacrifices made by NDRF personnel and reaffirmed the commitment of India’s disaster management forces to protect lives and property in every crisis situation.
