Bold Move by Assam Police: BMI Assessment to Transform the Force
In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at revitalizing the police force, the Assam Police has announced plans to professionally record the Body Mass Index (BMI) of all its personnel, including IPS officers. This drive seeks to address concerns about the fitness levels of police officers and motivate them to prioritize their physical well-being. The personnel will be given a three-month period to focus on improving their fitness before their BMIs are assessed.
Assam Police Implements BMI Assessment to Enhance Fitness Standards
Director General of Police (DGP) GP Singh took to Twitter to share the news, stating, “We plan to give three months’ time to all Assam Police personnel, including IPS and APS officers, until August 15th, and then start BMI assessment in the next fifteen days.” In an effort to promote a healthier force, those categorized as obese (BMI 30+) will be given an additional three months to work on reducing their weight. Following this period, they will be offered the Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS).
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.
— GP Singh (@gpsinghips) May 16, 2023
We plan to give three months time to all Assam…
To ensure fairness, Mr. Singh clarified that individuals with legitimate medical conditions such as hypothyroidism would be exempted from the BMI assessment. Moreover, he expressed his commitment to lead by example, stating that he would be the first to have his BMI recorded on August 16th. The Assam Police force, which comprises approximately 70,000 personnel, has already identified over 650 individuals who are reportedly habitual drinkers or obese. Those deemed unfit for duty after a comprehensive review will be offered the VRS option. “Those whose names appear on the list but are unwilling to take VRS will not be assigned field duty,” Mr. Singh had previously stated.
Voluntary Retirement Scheme Offered to Unfit Personnel after Thorough Review
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who also holds the Home portfolio, has been a strong proponent of removing “deadwood” from the police force. During a virtual meeting with top police officials, he emphasized the importance of creating a responsive and action-oriented police force by weeding out habitual drinkers, extremely obese personnel, and those facing corruption charges. Mr. Sarma highlighted the existence of a provision for offering VRS to such individuals, expressing his satisfaction that this rule is finally being implemented. Those accepting the VRS option will continue to receive their full salaries, while new recruitment will be undertaken to fill the resulting vacancies.
The Assam Police Headquarters has made it clear that the decision to assess the BMI of all personnel, officers, and organizations stems from the directions of the Honorable Chief Minister’s Office. This move represents a progressive step towards establishing a fitter and more efficient police force. With the deadline for the BMI assessment set for mid-August, followed by an additional three-month window for weight reduction, the Assam Police is demonstrating its commitment to both the physical well-being of its personnel and the overall improvement of the force.
As Assam embarks on this transformative journey, it remains to be seen how the BMI assessment and subsequent measures will impact the police force. However, by prioritizing fitness and eliminating the “deadwood,” the Assam Police is taking significant strides toward creating a more agile, proactive, and professional law enforcement agency that can effectively serve and protect the citizens of the state.
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