19th All India Police Band Competition began with a colourful opening ceremony at Gulshan Ground here today. The competition was declared open by Advisor to Hon’ble Governor K.Vijay Kumar, who was Chief Guest on the occasion. The Competition is hosted by J&K Police in which 23 teams of different police and Central Armed Police Forces are participating.The Advisor (K) complimented the J&K Police and its leadership for hosting the competition. He highlighted the role of band in police and armed forces.Director General of Police (DGP) Dilbag Singh welcomed the Chief Guest and the participating teams. He said that J&K Police is thankful to All India Police Sports Control Board for giving the responsibility of hosting the competition second time. He said that in the year 2002 the competition was hosted by J&K Police. The teams dressed in varied uniforms, representing their states and Forces have made the function more colourful, the DGP added.DGP appreciated the efforts of the organizing committee for smooth conduct of the competition. He said that elaborate arrangements have been made for the guest teams and the managing staff.
Experienced and qualified judges have been deployed by All India Police Sports Board to adjudge the performance of the teams, he informed.The Addl. Director General of Police, Armed Sh. A.K Choudhary presented vote of thanks. He thanked the Chief Guest Sh. K Vijay Kumar and all other officers, the participating teams/managers, print and electronic media for making the opening ceremony a success.The function started with a colourful march past by the teams playing different tunes. 1498 participants including all female team from Jharkhand Police are participating in the competition. The competition will be in different categories of Brass and pipe band/ bugle calls.Brass and pipe band competitions will be held in seated and marching positions. Gulshan Ground will be the main venue. Rolling trophies will be awarded to the teams winning first three positions in the competition. There will be an overall champion trophy also.