Shimla, Dec 2 (IANS): Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Monday said 1,000 posts of constable in the state police would be filled soon.

Presiding over the state police's Raising Day parade here, he said the police played a vital role in maintaining peace.

Noting Himachal Pradesh was the first state in the country to implement the Emergency Response Support System, Thakur said the government has equipped the Police Department with modern information tools to ensure better performance and improved skills.

The state is giving priority to the women safety and for this Gudiya Helpline by dialling 1515 and Shakti Button Application have been launched, he said,

Thakur also asked the Police Department to keep a strict vigil on drug abuse, especially amongst the youth.

Announcing one promotion to be given to the police employees three months before retirement, he said that a special medal will be given to all police employees on the occasion of the force's 50th anniversary.

Earlier, Director General S.R. Mardi welcomed the Chief Minister and other dignitaries and highlighted the activities and programmes being carried out by the police.