Port Blair, March 11: The A&N Police celebrated 150 years of Indian Police in a function at the Gazetted Officers' Mess at Atlanta Point, Port Blair on 11th March 2013. The Hon'ble Lt Governor, Lt Gen (Retd) Bhopinder

Singh, PVSM, AVSM, was the Chief Guest along with the First Lady, Smt. Bhawanee Singh, at the function attended by the CINCAN, the Chief Secretary and senior officers of the Administration and AN Command.

Starting from 21 October 2012, Police across the country are celebrating 150 years of service to the nation. The Police Act of 1861 is acknowledged to have marked the beginning of institutionalised policing in India and is still regarded as the basic statute. In the A&N Islands, Captain Wimberly was the first official District Superintendent of Police.

The A & N Police is now headed by the Director General of Police assisted by three IGsP, one DIGP, seven SsP and 20 Dy.SsP, with a sanctioned strength of 5008 personnel. In addition, 792 Home Guards also assist the A & N Police.

At the GO's Mess, the cultural programme by the Police Entertainment Team enthralled the guests. Earlier, the Director General of Police (i/c), Balaji Srivastava, IPS, welcomed the Chief Guest and other invitees on the occasion of the Sesquicentennial celebrations of Indian Police. A visual presentation of photographs covering the history of the penal settlement, Netaji's visit to the Islands and achievements of the A&N Police, was also made before the audience, followed by a display of colourful fireworks.

On his historic visit to the GO's Mess, the Hon'ble Lt. Governor accompanied by the First Lady complimented the DGP for a befitting programme celebrating the 150 years of Indian Police. The A&N Police was commended for its remarkable professionalism, dedication and service to the people of the Islands.