Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday lauded the unwavering dedication of the North Eastern Police Academy (NEPA) in shaping the future of policing, as he attended the Dikshant Parade for the 54th Basic Course. The ceremony marked the graduation of 70 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), including 62 from Assam and 8 from Mizoram, with 20 of them being women officers. Assam Urban Development Minister Ashok Singhal was also present at the event.
Addressing the newly inducted officers, Sarma emphasized the critical role of NEPA in equipping trainees with the knowledge, discipline, and resilience needed to excel in their duties. “NEPA fraternity has unwavering dedication in shaping the future of policing. The training imparted to the 62 DSP (Probationers) from Assam and eight from Mizoram will play a crucial role not only in enhancing their physical and mental resilience but also in their overall development as competent police officers. The rigorous outdoor training, drill, and discipline instilled in the officer trainees will undoubtedly serve them well. The benefit will be for both the individual and the police administration and smart governance,” he said.
He highlighted the comprehensive curriculum, which covers law, forensics, and practical policing, including exposure through army engagement and visits to jails and police stations. “Such experiences provide them with a broader understanding of practical policing. This also prepares them to face real-world challenges with confidence and competence,” he noted.
Since its establishment in 1978, NEPA has trained over 5,000 DSPs (Probationers) and Sub-Inspectors, with Assam alone accounting for over 1,000 cadets. Sarma expressed confidence in the latest batch, saying, “I am confident that this current batch of 62 DSPs will uphold the great legacy and set a new benchmark in smart, citizen-centric policing in Assam. The police service embodies courage, sacrifice, and dedication. As you step into the state police force, you have to remember that your duty as a police officer is above everything else. Upholding the highest standards of professional excellence, integrity, and honesty will be paramount. This will help in meeting the expectations of society, the government, and your own family.”
Sarma underscored his government’s vision of transforming Assam into a crime-free and drug-free state, emphasizing the crucial role of a strong police force. “Since assuming office, our government in Assam has pursued a clear and ambitious goal to transform Assam. To achieve this vision, we need a secure environment where crime is minimal and cities actively contribute to the state’s progress. Assam Police, in alignment with our commitment to a crime-free and drug-free Assam, has been dealing with all forms of crime. The force has adopted a firm and resolute stance against criminals, sending a strong message that there is no place for disruption in a civilized society.”
He highlighted a significant drop in crime rates, attributing it to the Assam Police’s relentless efforts. “As a result of decisive measures taken by Assam Police against crime and criminals, the state has witnessed a substantial decline in crime rate. The number of registered cases has come down from 1.21 lakh in 2020 to around 50,000 in 2024. The crime rate per lakh population has significantly dropped from 349 in 2020 to 139 in 2024. Pending cases have remarkably reduced from over 1.5 lakh in 2020 to just around 14,000 in 2024. The chargesheet rate has surged from 47.8 percent to 66.7 percent, while the conviction rate has increased to 22.9 percent in 2024.”
He further pointed out a notable reduction in crimes against women, saying, “Crime against women has notably declined from 26,352 in 2020 to just 5,555 in 2024. Our strict action against child marriage offenders has led to a substantial rise in case registrations from 138 cases in 2020 to 5,498, but because of our strict action, it has again come down to 557 in 2024.”
On the fight against organized crime, he highlighted Assam’s crackdown on rhino poaching and drug trafficking. “Our relentless work on rhino poaching has yielded remarkable success. Assam Police has pursued an unwavering crackdown on drug trafficking. Since 2020, drugs worth ₹2,885 crores have been seized, and over a thousand bighas of cannabis and opium cultivation have been destroyed. In 2024 alone, Assam Police registered 3,323 drug-related cases, underscoring our firm stand against narcotics.”
Concluding his address, Sarma expressed confidence in the new officers and their ability to uphold the state’s security. “I have no doubt that your dedication and resolve will further strengthen the state police service, ensuring that Assam continues its journey towards safety, security, and prosperity,” he affirmed.