The Andaman and Nicobar Police formally implemented Special Grade designations for long-serving personnel on Friday, recognising dedicated service and professional merit within the force. This interim initiative, announced earlier, affects Constables and Head Constables meeting service and promotion criteria.
Under the programme, 1,387 Constables who had completed 15 years of service along with their first MACP (Modified Assured Career Progression) increment were elevated to the designation of Head Constable (Special Grade). Meanwhile, 239 Head Constables who had completed 25 years of service, including at least five years in the Head Constable rank under the 1st and 2nd MACP, were granted the designation of Assistant Sub-Inspector (Special Grade).
Pipping ceremonies were conducted simultaneously across all police units and districts of the Union Territory, with senior officers presiding over the events. The ceremonies served as a formal recognition of the personnel’s professionalism, dedication, and commitment to public service. Officers and colleagues congratulated the newly designated personnel, acknowledging their contribution to maintaining law and order across the islands.
The police fraternity expressed gratitude to Lieutenant Governor Admiral D.K. Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.) and Vice-Chairman of the Islands Development Agency, Chief Secretary Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, IAS, and Director General of Police Hargobinder Singh Dhaliwal, IPS, for their continued support and encouragement of the workforce. Officials highlighted the leadership’s role in boosting morale and reinforcing the importance of recognizing merit within the force.
The Special Grade designations aim to provide career advancement and formal acknowledgment to personnel who have demonstrated sustained performance over extended periods. By awarding these ranks, the administration seeks to maintain high professional standards, retain experienced staff, and motivate officers to continue delivering effective policing across the islands.
Police officials noted that the initiative also aligns with broader human resource policies intended to improve service conditions, enhance job satisfaction, and provide a structured path for career progression in law enforcement. The move is seen as part of a larger strategy to strengthen institutional capabilities and reward personnel who have contributed significantly to public safety and community confidence.
With this implementation, the Andaman & Nicobar Police have formally codified recognition for merit and long service, ensuring that the contributions of frontline staff are publicly acknowledged. The initiative also reflects the administration’s commitment to maintaining operational excellence while fostering an environment of professional growth and accountability.
The Special Grade designation scheme is expected to positively impact morale across the police force, incentivising dedicated officers and providing a framework for continued career development within the Union Territory’s law enforcement ecosystem.
