Ahmedabad: In a landmark reform aimed at recognising contributions beyond uniformed policing, the Gujarat Police has, for the first time, extended its annual Director General of Police (DGP) Commendation Awards to civilian employees serving in the department. The move is part of a comprehensive overhaul of the state’s police commendation framework that also broadens eligibility criteria and increases the number of annual awards.
Announcing the changes, Director General of Police Gyanendra Singh Malik said the revised system seeks to acknowledge the role of both police personnel and civilian staff in strengthening policing and public service delivery.
Civilian Employees Become Eligible for DGP Awards
Under the revised framework, 10 DGP Commendation Rolls will be awarded annually to outstanding civilian employees working in Gujarat Police.
Eligible personnel include:
- Junior Clerks
- Senior Clerks
- Deputy Administrative Officers
- Accountants
- Stenographers
- Other non-uniformed administrative staff
This marks the first time civilian employees, who play a crucial role in the department’s day-to-day functioning, will receive formal recognition through the DGP’s annual honours.
Commendation Awards Increased from 110 to 148
The Gujarat Police has significantly expanded its annual recognition programme.
The number of DGP Commendation Discs has been increased from 110 to 148, enabling more personnel to be honoured for outstanding service.
The revised policy also reduces the minimum qualifying service required for consideration from seven years to five years, allowing younger officers and employees to become eligible earlier in their careers.
Recognition Beyond Crime Detection
Earlier, commendations were largely associated with achievements in crime prevention and investigation.
Under the new policy, personnel can now also be recognised for exceptional performance in:
- Police administration
- Traffic management
- Election duties
- Outstanding achievements in national and international sporting events
The expanded criteria aim to reward excellence across diverse aspects of policing and public administration.
Specialised Units Also Included
The revised commendation framework extends eligibility to personnel serving in specialised wings of the Gujarat Police, including:
- Bomb Disposal Squad
- Mounted Police
- Dog Squad
- Armourers
- Police Band
Officials said the move ensures broader representation and recognises contributions from units that often remain behind the scenes.
Police Force Has Expanded Rapidly
The reform comes as Gujarat Police has witnessed significant expansion over the past several years.
According to the department:
- More than 30,000 police personnel have been recruited between 2019 and 2026.
- New police ranges, districts and commissionerates have been created.
- Several specialised units have been established, including the Cyber Centre of Excellence and the Anti-Narcotics Task Force.
The revised commendation policy reflects the changing structure and growing responsibilities of the state’s police force.
Awards to Be Presented on Gujarat Police Day
Both the DGP Commendation Discs and the newly introduced DGP Commendation Rolls will be presented every year on December 15, commemorating the day Gujarat Police received the prestigious President’s Colours, one of the highest honours bestowed upon a police force in India.
Officials said the revamped recognition system is intended to motivate personnel across all ranks and categories while promoting excellence, professionalism and dedication in public service.
