‘One nation, one police uniform’ policy to be rolled out soon; MHA seeks data from Odisha, other states

The Centre’s ambitious ‘One Nation, One Police Uniform’ initiative has moved to its implementation stage, with the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) directing 16 states and Union Territories, including Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Kerala, Telangana, and West Bengal, to submit detailed information on existing police uniforms and allowances by November 4.

According to an official notification, the MHA has sought data on two key aspects from the rank of Constable to Deputy Superintendent of Police. It requested details from the Police DGs of the 16 states regarding the annual uniform allowance currently sanctioned to police personnel, rank-wise and the approximate cost of a pair of uniforms presently in use across each state or Union Territory.

Following the MHA’s directive, the Odisha DGP Control Room has instructed the State Police Headquarters to compile and forward the required information without delay.

BPR&D Tasked With Design And Material

Reports stated that the exercise is part of the Bureau of Police Research and Development’s (BPR&D) ongoing effort to standardise police attire under a uniform national policy. The BPR&D has been tasked with studying the material, colour, insignia, and cost factors to recommend a single model of uniform that can be adopted nationwide.

Sources indicate that while the Centre aims to maintain a standard design and fabric specification, individual states may retain their respective emblems and ranks, ensuring functional uniformity without compromising state identity.

Policy Background

The concept of a common police uniform was first proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Chintan Shivir of State Home Ministers held on October 27–28, 2022. Following this, the Union Home Ministry in 2023 sought responses from all states and Union Territories.

The PM had then stated that the move aims to enhance public recognition of police personnel and improve the sense of institutional coherence across the country.

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Next Steps And Implementation Timeline

After review and approval, the MHA will issue guidelines for phased implementation, including procurement standards and colour codes. The rollout will mark the first time in India’s policing history that a single design specification applies to all forces, replacing state-wise variations in colour, fabric, and insignia that have existed since Independence.

The initiative is expected to be formally announced after inter-ministerial consultations are completed.