New Delhi, May 13 (IANS): The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has asked the states and union territories, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), Central Police Organisations (CPO) to recommend names of the police personnel for the President's Medal for Distinguished and Meritorious Service on the occasion of this year's Independence Day.

According to the communication sent to the states and others, the Police Division of MHA has asked DGPs to send the names for the police personnel at the earliest.

The President's Police Medal is a decoration awarded to members of law enforcement in India.

Established on March 1, 1951, the President's Police Medals is awarded for either gallantry or distinguished service, with the gallantry version of the medal being accorded a higher precedence.

The medal is awarded annually on Republic Day and Independence Day.

It is awarded for long and distinguished service to individuals who have served at least 21 years in the police service or in the central police and security organisations.

The medals are awarded to the security personnel for showing exemplary skills for investigation and other security and law and order issues.