In a moment of pride for Odisha, three police officers have been awarded the prestigious Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak-2024 in recognition of their outstanding skills in crime investigation. Odisha DGP Y B Khurania shared the news on social media, highlighting the exceptional achievements of Sabyasachi Malla, Rajendra Narayan Pattanik, and Rigan Kindo, who serve as Inspectors-in-Charge in Gajapati, Ganjam, and Malkangiri districts respectively.

Inspector Sabyasachi Malla earned the honor for solving the 2021 murder of an unidentified woman in Ganjam district, leading to a life sentence for the accused. Rajendra Narayan Pattanik’s dedication was recognized for his work on a 2020 double murder case in Jajpur’s Kalinga Nagar, securing life sentences for 17 of 19 accused individuals. Rigan Kindo was awarded for his success in cracking a 2022 murder case in Malkangiri, which resulted in life imprisonment for two individuals involved.

This recognition is part of a newly consolidated award system, formed in February by the central government. The Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak now includes four previous distinctions, including the Union Home Minister’s Medal for Excellence in Investigation and the Special Operation Medal. Each year on October 31, coinciding with Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary, officers from across the nation are acknowledged for their exceptional service. This year, 460 officers nationwide were honored with the Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak, furthering a legacy of excellence in India’s law enforcement.