Police Commemoration Day - October 21
Wed, Oct 21, 2026

Police Commemoration Day

Police Commemoration Day is observed in India every year on October 21 to honor police personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The day recognizes their courage, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting the public and maintaining law and order. Ceremonies are held across the country to pay tribute to fallen officers and acknowledge the service of police personnel nationwide.

History of Police Commemoration Day

Police Commemoration Day was established in 1960 to remember the police officers who were killed on October 21, 1959, during an incident near Hot Springs in the Ladakh region while patrolling the India-China border. A patrol party was attacked, resulting in the deaths of ten Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel.

Since then, October 21 has been observed annually across India as a national day of remembrance. Memorial ceremonies are held to honor police officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their communities and protecting the nation.

Interesting Facts About Police Commemoration Day

  • The National Police Memorial in New Delhi honors police personnel who have died in the line of duty.
  • Police Commemoration Day is observed by police organizations throughout India with memorial parades and wreath-laying ceremonies.
  • The National Police Memorial was inaugurated in 2018 and includes the names of thousands of fallen police personnel.
  • India has one of the world’s largest police forces, serving a population of more than one billion people.

Ways to Observe Police Commemoration Day

Attend or watch memorial ceremonies honoring fallen police personnel and learn about the history of the observance. Many museums, memorials, and educational organizations share information about the sacrifices made by officers throughout India’s history.

You can also express gratitude to local police officers, support organizations that assist the families of fallen personnel, or take time to learn about the challenges faced by law enforcement officers in their daily service.

When Is Police Commemoration Day in 2026?

Police Commemoration Day is observed on October 21 each year.

Observations

Weekday Month Day Year
Wednesday October 21 2026
Thursday October 21 2027
Saturday October 21 2028
Sunday October 21 2029