commemoration and Remembrance  DayIn the run up to the commitment of the nation towards the brave  hearts who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty, the National Disaster  Response Force (NDRF) organized a commemoration and Remembrance  Day function for its 17 valiant martyrs. A befitting ceremony was held at  the National Police Memorial (NPM), Chanakyapuri, New Delhi today. 

Bandi Sanjay Kumar Minister of States for Home graced the  occasion as chief guest. The function was attended by the families of the  martyrs, senior dignitaries from NDMA, MHA, Senior officers from  different CAPFs, school students and other representatives from various  organisations. The event commenced with a Commemoration Parade,  followed by soul-stirring band performances by the NDRF band and  various school bands. 

Piyush Anand, IPS, Director General NDRF, welcomed the  gathering with a heartfelt gratitude to the families of the martyrs. He  recalled the supreme sacrifices made by NDRF rescuers during critical  operations, including the 2013 Uttarakhand disaster, wherein nine  rescuers lost their lives. He reaffirmed NDRF’s commitment to serve the  Nation with the same dedication and bravery demonstrated by its fallen  heroes. 

In his address Bandi Sanjay Kumar, Minister of State for Home  Affairs, Government of India, expressed gratitude to our valiant heroes  who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. Hon’ble Chief Guest  underlined the difficult, prompt and heroic tasks undertaken by NDRF  brave hearts with pride and commitment. He also highlighted that the  presence of NDRF rescuers at disaster sites assures the citizens of effective  relief and a sense of safety among them. He also praised police personnel  of various Forces for their dedication and sacrifice to maintain peace and  harmony. Kumar also honoured the families of the martyrs.  

The chief guest and DG NDRF also interacted with the families of the  martyrs and inquired about their wellbeing, any problems being faced  and assurance of the solution of the problems.  

It is pertinent to mention that 17 Rescuers of NDRF have attained  martyrdom in the line of duty so far.