Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday, 9 August presented the President's Colour — the highest honour conferred on a military unit or police force — to the Puducherry Police at a ceremonial event held at the Puducherry Armed Police Ground, Gorimedu. The recognition marks a landmark moment for the union territory's uniformed force, acknowledging its record of service, discipline, and professional achievement.

The Ceremony

Shah formally handed over the President's Colour, also known as the Nishaan, to the Ensign Officer of the Puducherry Police. Director General of Police Shalini Singh accompanied the Home Minister during the presentation. Lieutenant Governor K. Kailashnathan, Chief Minister N. Rangasamy, senior police officers, government officials, and other dignitaries were present at the event.

Presidential Approval and the Honour's Significance

President Droupadi Murmu had approved the conferment on 8 May, recognising the Puducherry Police's exceptional service and distinguished achievements. The President's Colour is regarded as the highest honour bestowed on a military unit or state and union territory police force in India. Previous recipients include the Indian Navy, the Indian Coast Guard, and police forces of several states, placing Puducherry Police in distinguished company.

Security Arrangements for Shah's Visit

Elaborate security measures were put in place across Puducherry ahead of the Home Minister's visit. More than 1,000 personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Puducherry Police were deployed at key locations. Vehicle inspections were intensified at entry points to the union territory, and traffic restrictions and diversions were imposed along Shah's travel route — particularly on stretches connecting Gorimedu, Raj Nivas, and Puducherry airport. Authorities also banned the operation of drones, unmanned aerial vehicles, and other flying devices during the visit.

Shah's Itinerary Before Puducherry

Shah arrived in Puducherry on Saturday night after completing engagements in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. He was received by Governor Kailashnathan and Chief Minister Rangasamy along with senior government representatives. Earlier on Saturday, Shah had flown from Maharashtra to Chennai, before travelling by helicopter to Tiruvannamalai, arriving at approximately 5.20 pm after departing Chennai at around 4.15 pm. During his Tiruvannamalai visit, he offered prayers at the historic Arunachaleswarar Temple and visited the Sri Ramana Maharshi Ashram before proceeding to Puducherry for Sunday's official programme.

The conferment of the President's Colour on the Puducherry Police is expected to serve as a catalyst for continued excellence within the force, as the union territory looks to strengthen its law enforcement capabilities.