HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, Aug 16: In a bid to prioritise the health and fitness of its personnel, the Assam Police commenced the digitised Body Mass Index (BMI) test on Wednesday. The director general of police (DGP), GP Singh, led by example by being the first to undergo the test.
“On the directions of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, we have taken a pledge to make Assam Police a more healthier and fitter unit and as part of it, the first call will be to check the BMI,” the DGP told reporters here.
Having a BMI of 25, the DGP successfully completed the test, which marked the initiation of this health-focused initiative. The plan for this initiative was formulated on May 16, with the aim of analysing the BMI of all serving police personnel after three months.
The initiative collected data from over 67,000 police personnel and launched the BMI analysis program at 36 locations across the state. The second phase of the program will focus on police personnel falling within the obese category (with a BMI above 30). These individuals will be advised to visit the Police Training College at Dergaon.
With the support of government doctors and nutritionists, individuals falling under the obese category will undergo a comprehensive program aimed at reducing their BMI to below 30. This program may extend for up to three months, depending on individual requirements.
Additionally, the Assam Police has set a target for the coming year, aiming to achieve a BMI of 28 among its personnel.
“We have also decided that by next year, we will have a target of BMI 28 and also prepare a database of blood sugar and blood pressure of the cops,” DGP Singh added.
Director General of Police, GP Singh, expressed that upon collecting the complete database, necessary medical interventions will be implemented. The state government has demonstrated its commitment by providing full support for these health-focused initiatives.
During a meeting with senior police officials, chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasised the need to transform the police force into a responsive and action-oriented unit. He advocated for the removal of “dead wood”, which includes habitual drinkers, individuals with extreme obesity, and those facing corruption charges. (With inputs from PTI)
