Ranchi hosts 15th All India Police Archery Championship

RANCHI: The 15th All India Police Archery Championship was inaugurated at the Birsa Munda Athletics Stadium in Khelgaon, Ranchi, with Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar highlighting the importance of discipline, concentration and commitment in both archery and police service.

Addressing the opening ceremony, the Governor said archery demanded concentration, patience, precision and dedication to a target. These qualities were equally important in policing, where sound assessment of situations, judicious decisions and commitment to duty were essential for effective law enforcement.

He urged participants from different states and police forces to compete with dedication, discipline and sportsmanship.

The championship, hosted by Jharkhand Police, brings together police archers from across the country and provides a platform for athletes to demonstrate their skills, exchange experiences and learn from one another.

Jharkhand’s reputation as the ‘Land of Archery’

Gangwar said Jharkhand was known as the “Land of Archery” and its talented athletes had brought recognition to the state through achievements at national and international levels.

He said initiatives such as Khelo India had helped promote sporting culture, raise awareness about sports and create opportunities for young talent.

The Governor described the hosting of the national police championship as a matter of pride for Jharkhand. He said such competitions encouraged healthy rivalry, mutual goodwill and team spirit among personnel from different states and forces.

Governor warns against cyber fraud

Moving beyond sports, Gangwar highlighted the changing nature of crime and the need for police forces to use modern technology, scientific methods and advanced tools to improve policing.

He said the role of the police extended beyond taking action after a crime had occurred. Preventing offences and strengthening public confidence in safety were equally important responsibilities.

The Governor specifically warned citizens about cybercrime and digital fraud involving suspicious Android application package (APK) files sent to mobile phones in the name of traffic challans or other official notifications.

He urged people not to open suspicious files and to verify such messages through official channels. He also stressed that effective prevention of cybercrime required both technical competence within the police force and greater public awareness.

Sports and fitness important for police personnel

Gangwar said police personnel needed not only physical fitness but also mental resilience, discipline, patience and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure.

Regular participation in sports and exercise, he said, helped improve physical and mental health while building confidence and composure in difficult situations.

He also underlined the importance of public trust and cooperation in effective policing, saying officers must listen sensitively to citizens’ concerns and reassure them about their safety.

The Governor called on the archers to give their best during the championship and said the event would strengthen professional bonds and camaraderie among police forces from across the country.