Lagatar24 Desk
Ranchi: The Jharkhand Armed Force (JAP-1) marked its 145th foundation day with a grand parade at the JAP-1 campus in Doranda, Ranchi. The event commenced with tributes to martyrs and saw the participation of senior police officials, including DGP Anurag Gupta, DG Prashant Singh, DG RK Malik, ADG Priya Dubey, IG AV Homkar, and JAP Commandant Rakesh Ranjan.
Celebrations and Cultural Events
A week-long celebration has been planned to commemorate the foundation day. An Anand Mela (funfair) was also organized on the premises, featuring 60 stalls. A special “Pride of Gorkha” stall showcased the achievements and rich culture of the Gorkha community.
Historical Significance
On the occasion, DGP Anurag Gupta highlighted the rich history of JAP-1, one of India’s oldest armed forces units. Established in January 1880 as the New Reserve Force during British rule, the battalion has a storied legacy. In 1892, it was renamed Bengal Military Police and served in Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha.
In 1905, the unit was renamed the Gorkha Military Police, integrating Gorkha soldiers stationed in various parts of the state. Post-independence in 1948, it was renamed the First Battalion Bihar Military Police. Following the creation of Jharkhand in 2000, the unit was rechristened as Jharkhand Armed Police-1 (JAP-1).
Legacy of Bravery
DGP Anurag Gupta lauded the battalion’s contributions, stating, “This battalion has a glorious history that even instills fear in our adversaries. The valiant Sikh and Gorkha regiments have played pivotal roles in protecting our nation.”
Deployment History
Over the decades, JAP-1 has been deployed in key assignments, including:
•1902-1911: Delhi Durbar
•1915: Bengal
•1917: Mayurbhanj, Madhya Pradesh
•1953: Jammu and Kashmir
•1962: Chakrata, Dehradun
•1963-1969: Training centers in NEFA (now Arunachal Pradesh)
The battalion has also been involved in crucial operations in Punjab, Assam, and Nagaland, underlining its critical role in maintaining national security.