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CRPF Full Form, All You Need to Know About CRPF

CRPF is one of the leading security forces of our nation. Check CRPF Full form. CRPF history, CRPF Roles and Responsibilities, CRPF Exams and CRPF Motto in this article.
authorImageNigam Sharma9 Jan, 2024
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CRPF Full Form

CRPF Full Form: CRPF is the largest force of India's Central Armed Police Forces. It works under the Ministry of Home Affairs (Government of India). The Main Goal of CRPF is to assist States and Union Territories in upholding the rule of law, keeping peace, and putting an end to the insurgency. Read this article to know the full form of CRPF, its role and functions, motto, history, process to join CRPF and more

CRPF Overview

RPF plays an important role in upholding internal security, managing unrest, and contributing to peacekeeping efforts both domestically and internationally. Know more about CRPF with the help of this Overview Table:-
CRPF Overview
Full Form Central Reserve Police Force
Year of Establishment 1939
Roles and Functions Internal Security, Law and Order Maintenance, Disaster Management, Election Duties, VIP Security
Organizational Structure Sectors and Battalions
Motto "Seva and Nishtha"
Slogan "दीर्घकालिक सेवा और नैतिकता की परंपरा" (Long-term Service and Tradition of Ethics)
Training Facilities Nationwide Training Centers
Active Units Rapid Action Force (RAF), Cobra, Specialized Battalions
Ministry Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India
Current Director General Dr. Sujoy Lal Thaosen
First Director General Shri V.G. Kanetkar
Strength More than 3 Lakhs
CRPF Exams CRPF Constable, CRPF Head Constable, CRPF ASI
Official Website crpf.gov.in

CRPF Full Form

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is a prominent paramilitary force in India, established with the primary objective of maintaining internal security and peace within the country. Formed on July 27, 1939, as the Crown Representative Police during British rule, it underwent several transformations before being officially renamed the Central Reserve Police Force on December 28, 1949. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) comprises a total of 246 battalions, each focused on specific roles. Among them, 203 battalions serve in executive capacities, focusing on maintaining law and order. Additionally, there are specialized units including 5 battalions dedicated to VIP security, 6 battalions comprising women personnel, and 10 COBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action) battalions trained for counter-insurgency operations. The force also includes 15 Rapid Action Force (RAF) battalions, 1 special duty battalion, and 1 parliamentary duty battalion. This strategic distribution allows the CRPF to effectively address diverse security challenges and contribute to the nation's overall safety and well-being.

CRPF History

The inception of CRPF traces back to 1939 when it was known as the Crown Representative Police during the British colonial era. Throughout its history, the CRPF has evolved and adapted to changing security scenarios, becoming one of the largest and most respected paramilitary forces in the world.
  • Formation and Early Years (1939): Originally established as the Crown Representative's Police (CRP) in 1939 to assist the British government in maintaining law and order after World War II.
  • Role during Partition (1947): Played a crucial role during rough period of partition, addressing security challenges arising from communal tensions.
  • Post-Independence Designation (1950): Renamed the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in 1950, emphasizing its national role and responsibilities.

How CRPF was formed?

On December 28, 1949, a Parliamentary Act was enacted, altering the nomenclature of the force to the Central Reserve Police Force, commemorating the nation's independence. This Act officially designated the CRPF as an armed force of the Union. In response to the evolving needs of the newly independent nation, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the then-Home Minister, envisioned a versatile role for the force. The CRPF Rules, formulated in 1955 and published in the Indian Gazette on March 25, aimed to operationalize the provisions outlined in the CRPF Act. Shri V.G. Kanetkar served as the inaugural Director-General of the CRPF.

Roles and Functions of CRPF

CRPF assumes a multifaceted role in ensuring internal security and aiding the nation in various capacities. Key functions include:
  1. Internal Security: CRPF takes a leading role in addressing insurgency, terrorism, and extremism across different regions of the country.
  2. Law and Order Maintenance: It collaborates with states and union territories to manage law and order during critical situations, protests, and civil disturbances.
  3. Disaster Management: CRPF actively engages in disaster management operations, extending relief and rescue services during natural calamities.
  4. Election Duties: The force is frequently deployed during elections to ensure a secure and peaceful electoral process.
  5. VIP Security: CRPF provides security cover to significant personalities and critical installations.

CRPF Posts

CRPF is structured into various categories, each assigned specific ranks and responsibilities.
Category Rank
Non-Gazetted Officers (NGOs) A-Constable (Other Rank/ORs)
B-Head Constable (Under Officer)
Subordinate Officers Assistant Sub Inspector (ASI)
Sub Inspector (SI)
Inspector
Gazetted Officers (GOs) Assistant Commandant (Equivalent to DSP)
Deputy Commandant (Additional SP)
Second in Command (SP)
Commandant (SSP)
DIG
IG
Additional Director General (ADG)
Special Director General (SDG)
Director General (DG)

CRPF Motto and Slogan

CRPF Motto
  • Motto: "Seva and Nishtha," translating to "Service and Loyalty," symbolizing the force's unwavering commitment to duty.
  • Slogan: "दीर्घकालिक सेवा और नैतिकता की परंपरा," signifying "Long-term Service and Tradition of Ethics."

CRPF Zones

The CRPF operates across various zones to effectively manage and address security challenges throughout the country. These zones are strategically designated to ensure comprehensive coverage. Here are the four main operational zones of CRPF:
  1. Central Zone: Encompassing a significant portion of central India, this zone plays a crucial role in maintaining law and order and addressing security concerns in the central region of the country.
  2. J&K Zone (Jammu and Kashmir Zone): Given the unique security dynamics of the Jammu and Kashmir region, this zone focuses on handling specific challenges prevalent in this area, contributing to the overall security framework of the nation.
  3. North Eastern Zone: Covering the northeastern states of India, this zone is dedicated to addressing the security needs of the region. The diverse and challenging terrain of the Northeast requires specialized attention, and this zone plays an important role in maintaining stability.
  4. Southern Zone: Responsible for overseeing security operations in the southern part of the country, this zone contributes to the overall efforts of CRPF in ensuring peace and order. It addresses region-specific challenges and collaborates with other zones for a unified security approach.

CRPF Exams

CRPF conducts three main examinations for various positions, namely CRPF Constable, CRPF Head Constable (HC), and CRPF Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI). Here are the details of each:
  1. CRPF Constable Exam:
    • Responsibilities: CRPF Constables are tasked with maintaining law and order, participating in counter-insurgency operations, and ensuring security during the nation's general elections.
    • Exam Format: The examination for this position is conducted in a computer-based format, consisting of 100 questions.
  2. CRPF Head Constable (HC) Exam:
    • Responsibilities: Head Constables in the Ministerial Department of CRPF primarily handle back-office tasks and are assigned administrative and clerical jobs within the force.
    • Exam Format: The CRPF administers a computer-based test for the position of Head Constable Minister, comprising 100 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 90 minutes.
  3. CRPF Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Exam:
    • Overview: The ASI test for CRPF is considered one of the competitive exams in India, attracting numerous applicants each year.
    • Purpose: The exam is conducted annually to select candidates for the position of Assistant Sub-Inspector in the Central Reserve Police Force.

Defence Exams Related Links
AFCAT 1 2024 Notification CDS Notification 2024
UPSC CAPF Notification 2024 NDA 1 Notification 2024

CRPF Full form FAQs

Q1. What is the full form of CRPF

Ans. CRPF stands for Central Armed Police Forces.

Q2. When was CRPF established?

Ans. CRPF was established in 1939 as the Crown Representative Police and officially renamed on December 28, 1949.

Q3. What is the main goal of CRPF?

Ans. The primary goal of CRPF is to assist States and Union Territories in upholding the rule of law, maintaining peace, and countering insurgency.

Q4. How many battalions does CRPF have?

Ans. CRPF comprises a total of 246 battalions, each with specific roles and responsibilities.

Q5. What are the different zones of CRPF?

Ans. CRPF operates in four main zones: Central Zone, Jammu and Kashmir Zone, North Eastern Zone, and Southern Zone.
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