We in India are familiar with terms like cross-border terrorism, militancy, left-wing extremism, drugs and narcotics trafficking, all of which pose a clear and present danger and are dealt with as internal security challenges.The Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir, being a border region, and its police force, has been at the forefront in meeting these societal ills since India gained independence from British colonial rule in 1947. The Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP) has rendered yeoman service in this regard since it was created in 1973.To be an integral part of this police force has been the aspiration of many. So it was a momentous and proud occasion when 538 youngsters were recruited as constables by Lt Governor Manoj Sinha during the Attestation-cum-Passing-out Parade (APP) of the 15th Basic Recruit Training Course on Sunday.Out of these 538 new recruits, 360 have already served as Special Police Officers (SPOs), which in itself is indicative of the priority that is being given to maintenance of law and order in the UT starting from the bottom upwards.Sinha’s reiteration that cadets must discharge their responsibilities towards the nation and its citizens with utmost honesty, dedication and sensitivity, is a timely reminder to the police rank and file that application of common sense and balance in the performance of their duties is also a key requirement. The Lt Governor’s recall of the supreme sacrifice of JKP brave-hearts in the line of duty, reminds us all of the finest examples of skill, dedication, mobility and resolve to protect the integrity and sovereignty of India at all costs.His praise of the JKP as the “most versatile force with an admirable record of service to the nation”, gives substance to the oft-repeated adage of “where there is a will, there is a way”.Taking on both conventional and modern threats on a daily basis, the JKP has been able to overcome most if not all internal security challenges.That UT citizens are now more confident about the JKP providing them with a secure environment as well as avenues for development and promotion of peace, speaks volumes about the committed service being rendered by the latter, the Lt Governor has observed. Now the aim before the force is to redouble their efforts to eliminate new emerging subversive threats.Committing to peace, protecting lives and serving the people are the three mantras followed by the JKP and this is visible in the success it has achieved in dismantling and destroying the terror-ecosystem that once had the upper hand in the UT not too long ago. The UT administration’s promise to empower the police force with skilling and technology is a stern message to all those daring to test its resolve. An effective and efficient Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS) is already in place to ensure better communication and coordination between the police and common citizens.