Lucknow, Oct 23 Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel said on Friday that police personnel possess a wide range of talents, and their work should not be limited solely to maintaining law and order.
The governor commended police personnel for their dedication to duty, courage, and spirit of service. She encouraged them to contribute actively, alongside their regular responsibilities, to initiatives such as de-addiction, education, sanitation, and other social activities.
Speaking at an event organised by The Times of India Group in Kanpur, Patel said, “Police personnel possess a wide range of talents. Their application should not be limited solely to maintaining law and order. Police officers can voluntarily visit schools to teach children, impart lessons on discipline, and contribute to social activities.”
Citing an example of a school run in Jan Bhavan, she said approximately 450 children from underprivileged families are being provided with free education. Initially, the children faced challenges with behaviour, discipline, and personal hygiene. However, sustained efforts have led to remarkable improvement.
With the right guidance and opportunities, children from underprivileged families can also bring about positive change, she said. Patel also mentioned the regular monitoring of facilities available in universities and hostels, the Uttar Pradesh Jan Bhavan said in a statement.
She said today is an occasion to express gratitude to police personnel, these ‘karmayogis’.
“Their vigilance keeps society safe, their prompt action averts crises, and their courage keeps the security and trust intact in the hearts of ordinary citizens. A nation which honours the contributions of its ‘rakshak’ (protectors) demonstrates a true commitment to its own duties and values,” she said.
The governor also said behind a police uniform lies an individual who sets aside personal comforts, family time, and personal desires, prioritising society’s safety above all else.
“While we celebrate festivals with our families, many police personnel remain on duty. When we are resting, they stay awake to ensure our safety. Their vigilant eyes reflect a commitment to the protection of society, and their courage serves as the foundation for public trust,” she said.
“Often, police personnel are required to perform their duties in the interest of society and the nation while working in adverse conditions and living away from their families. Even during festivals and other significant occasions, they set aside their personal happiness to focus on ensuring the safety of citizens and maintaining law and order,” she said.
The governor urged police personnel to participate actively in the anti-drug campaign.
She said the problem of substance abuse is not limited to the individual alone; its impact extends to their family and society as well.
The governor said alongside their regular duties, police personnel can play a significant role in raising awareness about the harmful effects of drugs among students, the youth, and local communities.
She also emphasised the importance of fostering public participation and increasing social awareness to keep children and young people away from drugs. Referring to the ‘Student Police Cadet’ programme implemented in Gujarat, she said under this initiative, groups consisting of 30 girl students and 20 boy students were formed in schools.
“With police support, they received training in discipline, cleanliness, and social responsibility. This programme brought about a positive change in their behaviour. The children also helped their family members overcome substance abuse and raised awareness about cleanliness in their villages,” she said.
(PTI News)
