Call him a living legend or a former Madhya Pradesh DGP, but a frail centenarian Harivallabh Mohanlal (HM) Joshi is not an ordinary retired police officer in the twilight of his life. Joshi is the only surviving member of the inaugural 1948 batch IPS, and hence happens to be one of the oldest living links to India’s policing history – its evolution from a colonial era and its transformation into a vibrant police force in a democratic set up post-independence.
Born on March 5, 1926 in Rajasthan, Joshi turned 100 on Thursday. To commemorate his 100th birthday, the Madhya Pradesh IPS Association organized a grand function at the Police Officers’ Mess in Bhopal where Joshi was honoured with a shawl and a bouquet of flowers.
And to add an element of nostalgia, a young IPS probationary of the 2024 batch, Kajal Singh, was selected to honour the legendary top cop with the bouquet. Kajal is currently serving as Assistant Superintendent of Police in Ujjain,
A documentary highlighting Joshi’s robust administrative leadership, his stellar contributions to anti-dacoity campaigns, and outstanding achievements was screened at the function,
Current DGP Kailash Makwana and several of his predecessors and ex-IPS officers were specially present on the occasion to have a glimpse of this legendary officer.
Speaking on the occasion, Joshi described police service as a way to serve society and encouraged officers to work with a spirit of duty and honesty.
Makwana paid tribute by saying that the Joshi’s tenure as MP DGP is remembered as an inspiring chapter in the history of the Madhya Pradesh Police.
He said it was his capable leadership, vision, and determination that he could effectively guide the state police force in difficult circumstances. During his tenure, several important initiatives were taken in the areas of dacoity eradication, crime control, and police welfare,” Makwana reflected.
IPS Association president, ADG Chanchal Shekhar, extended warm greetings to Joshi on this occasion describing him as an inspiration to all serving officers.
The DGP lauded Joshi’s leadership, saying it was his leadership, dedication, and commitment to public service continue to be a source of inspiration for officers and other police personnel.
He said the most significant characteristic of Joshi’s personality and work style was that he always performed his duties with the spirit of “Karma is Worship.”
The Legendofficer salutes this legendary first batch bureaucrat of Independent India on his 100th birthday.
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