Guwahati, May 16: The Assam Police has embarked on a mission to improve the fitness levels of its personnel, including IPS officers, by professionally recording their Body Mass Index (BMI). The initiative aims to identify and eliminate “deadwood” from the police force, ensuring a healthier and more efficient workforce. The cops will be given a three-month period to work on their fitness before their BMIs are recorded.
Director General of Police GP Singh recently tweeted, “We plan to give three months’ time to all Assam Police personnel, including IPS & APS officers, till August 15th and then start BMI assessment in the next fifteen days.” This proactive approach reflects the commitment of the Assam Police to prioritize the well-being and fitness of its personnel.
In line with directions of the Hon @CMOfficeAssam , @assampolice Hq has decided to go in for professional recording of Body Mass Index (BMI) of all Assam Police personnel including IPS/APS officers and all DEF/Bn/Organisations.
We plan to give three months time to all Assam…— GP Singh (@gpsinghips) May 16, 2023
The process involves assessing the BMI of all personnel, and those falling into the obese category (BMI 30+) will be given an additional three months to reduce their weight. However, those who are unable to meet the fitness criteria, except for cases of genuine medical conditions like hypothyroidism, will be offered the option of a Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS). It is important to note that the fitness assessment will not overlook valid medical reasons that may contribute to higher BMI levels.
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To ensure transparency and fairness in the process, committees have been formed at the battalion and district levels, headed by deputy commandants or additional SP-rank officers. These committees will conduct a thorough review of the person identified as habitual drinker or obese, ensuring that the decision to offer VRS is based on logical and justified grounds.
The Assam Police, with a workforce of approximately 70,000 personnel, recognizes the need to maintain a responsive and action-oriented force. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has been a strong advocate for removing “deadwood” from the police force, including those with extreme obesity, habitual drinkers, and those facing corruption charges. The government has a provision for offering VRS to such personnel, and the implementation of this provision is now underway.
It is worth mentioning that those who accept the VRS offer will continue to receive their full salary. To maintain the effectiveness and operational capabilities of the police force, new recruitment will be conducted to fill the vacancies created by voluntary retirements.
This fitness drive by the Assam Police highlights the importance of physical well-being and overall fitness among law enforcement personnel.
By encouraging a healthier and fitter workforce, the Assam Police aims to enhance its capabilities, responsiveness, and professionalism. The initiative serves as a reminder that maintaining good health and physical fitness is not only crucial for individuals but also for the overall efficiency and effectiveness of any organization.
