The Andaman & Nicobar Police have introduced Special Grade designations for Constables and Head Constables, marking a significant step in recognising experience, merit, and long-standing service within the force. The announcement formalizes career progression for personnel who have completed the requisite years of service and met performance criteria.
Under the new scheme, Constables who have completed 15 years of service along with the first Modified Assured Career Progression (MACP) have been designated as Head Constable (Special Grade). Meanwhile, Head Constables completing 25 years of service, including at least five years in their current rank, with first and second MACP and vigilance clearance, have been upgraded to Assistant Sub-Inspector (Special Grade).
This development follows a gap of seven years since 2018 and is credited to the sustained efforts of the police leadership aimed at institutional recognition and career advancement for experienced personnel. The Special Grade designations are expected to boost morale and reinforce professional commitment within the force.
A formal pipping ceremony was conducted at the Police Headquarters on January 29, 2026, presided over by Director General of Police, Hargobinder Singh Dhaliwal. During the event, five police personnel were conferred with Special Grade ranks. Two Head Constables were promoted to Assistant Sub-Inspector (Special Grade), while three Constables, including two Lady Constables, received the designation of Head Constable (Special Grade).
Officials highlighted that the initiative not only recognizes individual merit but also strengthens the institutional framework by acknowledging long years of dedicated service. By establishing clear career pathways, the police administration aims to motivate personnel at all levels to maintain operational excellence and professional standards.
The Special Grade designations will also align with broader human resource policies, ensuring uniform recognition of experience across various ranks. Eligible personnel will now have formal acknowledgment of their contributions, reinforcing the importance of merit, vigilance compliance, and service longevity within the force.
The announcement has been widely welcomed within the department as a measure to incentivize and reward consistent performance. The police administration emphasized that the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen workforce management, promote career growth, and maintain high morale among personnel in the Andaman & Nicobar Police.
Officials further stated that future rounds of Special Grade promotions will continue to follow clear eligibility criteria, including service duration, MACP completion, and clearance of vigilance records, ensuring transparency and fairness in recognition and advancement.
The introduction of Special Grade ranks represents a key milestone in the modernization and professional development of the Andaman & Nicobar Police, highlighting the administration’s commitment to rewarding merit and long-term service.
