ASSISTANT Director (Intelligence Bureau) Balwant Khandekar, and four police officers -- Police Inspector (PI) Amit Kumar Pande, Police Sub-Inspector (PSI) Akshaywarnath Jokhuram Shukla, PSI Gajanan Tandulkar, and Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Rajesh Tukaramji Paidalwar of the City Police, have been honoured with the President’s Police Medal for Meritorious Service on the eve of Independence Day. Balwant Khandekar, Assistant Director (IB) has had a 24-year-long career in the IB. Educated at SFS High School and Hislop College in Nagpur, Khandekar has served in multiple states including Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan. Currently posted in Gujarat as Assistant Director, he is known for his expertise in counter-intelligence and counter-espionage. Khandekar's career highlights include successful anti-Naxal operations in Maharashtra, which contributed to the surrender of Naxalites in Gadchiroli. His work involves monitoring political developments and activities across the state.

 

PI Amit Kumar Pande: Thwarting nefarious designs of the Maoists, PI Amit Kumar Pande, another awardee, played a key role in anti-Naxal operations. By establishing a strong network of informants, he was able to preempt Maoist activities. PI Pande’s distinguished career has earned him several honors, including the Antrik Suraksha Seva Padak, Special Service Medal, DGP’s Insignia, and 255 commendations for his exceptional contributions.

 

 

PSI Akshaywarnath Shukla: From Constable to Sub-Inspector PSI Akshaywarnath Shukla began his police career as a constable in 1989 and rose through the ranks to become a Sub-Inspector. Currently posted at Lakadganj Police Station, he is credited with apprehending multiple criminals and confiscating illegal firearms and sharp weapons from them. Throughout his service, PSI Shukla has been honoured with 105 rewards for his outstanding performance. PSI Gajanan Tandulkar: Criminal detention specialist while posted at the MPDA Cell, PSI Gajanan Tandulkar successfully prepared proposals to detain 119 criminals under the Maharashtra Prevention of Dangerous Activities Act (MPDA).His meticulous efforts have contributed significantly to crime prevention.

 

ASI Rajesh Tukaramji Paidalwar: Crime Branch VeteranASI Rajesh Paidalwar, attached to the Crime Branch since 1991, has made significant contributions by preparing over 600 proposals to detain criminals under the MPDA, one proposal under the PITNDPS, and 73 proposals under MCOCA. His work has also led to the externment of 62 criminals. Recognised with the DGP’s Insignia and 700 rewards for his service, ASI Paidalwar remains a key asset to the Crime Branch. This recognition highlights the dedication and outstanding service of these officers in maintaining law and order, contributing significantly to the security and safety of their regions.