CHENNAI: As many as 854 uniformed services personnel across the State received awards from Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami, during the Independence Day on Tuesday. Complimenting the State police and other uniformed services personnel, the Chief Minister said the hard work of these departments has ensured an efficient law and order and the State being peaceful.Speaking at the celebration at Kalaivanar Arangam where medals were given to the personnel, the Chief Minister said the tireless work of the personnel during both natural disasters and other incidents to protect the public has set an example for other states.
He also pointed to the rescue of 14 people who were caught in the seventh floor during the fire in Chennai Silks at T Nagar and also the sacrifice by a fire officer who lost his life and 54 others who were injured during the gas cylinder blast at Kodungaiyur recently. Personnel from the fire services, vigilance and anti-corruption, prisons, home guards and civil defence received awards in recognition of their services.
The Chief Minister referred to the new welfare schemes, including medical check-up for police personnel above 40 years and houses for personnel at Melkottaiyur on 48 acres. Apart from this, 16,000 houses have already been constructed and a few are under construction. Tamil Nadu Director General of Police T K Rajendran appreciated the work done by police in maintaining law and order in the State. City police Commissioner A K Viswanathan said the schemes introduced by former chief minister late J Jayalalithaa had benefited many police families.