Ramban, Apr 09: The 84 Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force marked Shaurya Diwas with a ceremonial tribute to fallen personnel and the inauguration of new welfare and sports facilities at its Tactical Headquarters in Boom, Ramban.
Observed annually on April 9, Shaurya Diwas commemorates the courage displayed by CRPF personnel during the 1965 battle at Sardar Post in the Rann of Kutch, Gujarat. On the occasion, unit personnel led by Commandant N Ranbir Singh paid homage to martyrs who lost their lives in the line of duty.
Addressing the gathering, the Commandant recalled the events of April 9, 1965, when a small contingent of two companies from the 2nd Battalion CRPF repelled an attack by a full infantry brigade of the Pakistan Army. The engagement resulted in the deaths of 34 enemy soldiers, while six CRPF personnel laid down their lives. The day continues to be observed across the country to honour their sacrifice and commitment.
The event also saw the inauguration of a pickleball court—the first of its kind within CRPF units in Jammu and Kashmir—and a Central Police Welfare Canteen building at the battalion headquarters. The facilities were formally opened by N Gayabati Devi in the presence of officers, personnel, families, and members of the media.
Pickleball, a sport witnessing growing international popularity, has been introduced as part of efforts to diversify recreational activities within the force. An exhibition match was held following the inauguration.
Speaking on the occasion, Commandant Ranbir Singh said the initiative is aimed at strengthening physical fitness and encouraging sporting culture among personnel. He added that similar facilities would be gradually extended to local youth and students through structured outreach programmes.
The battalion headquarters already houses multiple sports amenities, including badminton courts, a volleyball court, a lawn tennis court, and both indoor and open-air gymnasiums. Officials said the expansion of such infrastructure reflects an emphasis on welfare and community engagement alongside operational responsibilities.
Senior officers, including Second-in-Command Vikram Singh, attended the programme along with personnel and their families.
