The Sikkim Police have reached a historic milestone after being conferred the President of India’s Colour Award, one of the highest and rarest honours given to police forces in the country.
The recognition has brought immense pride to the force as well as the state, with Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang Golay describing it as a testament to Sikkim’s disciplined administration and strong law-and-order system.
The announcement was formally made during a press conference addressed by Director General of Police Akshay Sachdeva, who said the beginning of the New Year 2026 has brought exceptionally good news for Sikkim. He confirmed that the honour has been conferred by the President of India and expressed deep gratitude to the Ministry of Home Affairs for its continued guidance and support. Receiving such a national-level honour, he said, is a matter of pride and blessing for every member of the Sikkim Police.
The DGP stressed that the award is not meant for any individual officer or rank but belongs collectively to the entire force. From senior leadership to personnel serving at the grassroots, he said, the recognition reflects years of dedication, discipline, courage and commitment to public service. He also acknowledged the contribution of retired officers and personnel, stating that the honour is the result of consistent and selfless service rendered over generations.
Explaining the significance of the award, the DGP said the President’s Police Colour is a ceremonial flag presented through a formal Colour Presentation Parade, conducted strictly as per established traditions and protocol. Along with the flag, an official insignia is also awarded, which all police personnel are entitled to wear on the left side of their uniform. With this recognition, Sikkim has become the 15th state in the country to receive the President’s Colour, underlining the rarity and prestige of the honour.
Providing historical context, he noted that since Independence only a limited number of police forces across India have been conferred the President’s Colour, often after long intervals. For the Sikkim Police, with a strength of around 6,500 personnel, the award marks a defining chapter in its history. He said serving members consider themselves fortunate to witness the achievement during their tenure, calling it a moment that will remain permanently etched in the force’s legacy.
Earlier, during the 71st Maghey Mela celebrations at Jorethang on January 20, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang Golay had announced that the Sikkim Police would be awarded the President’s Colour in recognition of their exemplary performance in smart policing and maintaining law and order across the state.
Calling it a proud moment for Sikkim, the Chief Minister said that despite being a small state, Sikkim has earned national respect due to the discipline, efficiency and people-friendly approach of its police force. He said the Sikkim Police have successfully adopted smart policing practices, strengthened internal security, improved traffic management and maintained close coordination with the public.
The Chief Minister added that the effective use of modern technology and innovation, in line with Government of India guidelines, has helped Sikkim emerge as a model for responsive and efficient policing. Congratulating all officers, personnel and security staff, he dedicated the honour to the people of Sikkim and announced that a grand ceremonial parade would be organised in the state to mark the historic achievement.