Ashwini Vaishnaw to Deliver Keynote at 21st DP Kohli Memorial Lecture on CBI’s 62nd Foundation Day
Ashwini Vaishnaw to Recognize Distinguished CBI Officers and Discuss Roadmap for India’s Law Enforcement Future
BNH NETWORK
New Delhi - Today marks a significant milestone for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) as it celebrates its 62nd Foundation Day. The highlight of the occasion will be the 21st DP Kohli Memorial Lecture, delivered by Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Hon'ble Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting (I&B), and Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). The event will take place at the prestigious Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
The theme of this year’s lecture, ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047 - A Roadmap for CBI’, is focused on India’s ambitious goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. Minister Vaishnaw will present a vision for the role of the CBI in shaping the future of law enforcement and national security, addressing challenges posed by modern-day crimes such as cyber-enabled financial crimes, and the rising global threats in the digital era.
Honoring CBI’s Legacy and Vision
The DP Kohli Memorial Lecture is a longstanding tradition established in 2000, which serves as a tribute to the founder Director of the CBI, Shri Dharamnath Prasad Kohli. Born in 1907 in Uttar Pradesh, Shri Kohli had a distinguished career in the Indian Police, serving in various capacities including as the Director of the Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) from 1955 to 1963. When the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) was created on 1st April 1963, he became its first Director, a position he held until his retirement in 1968.
This lecture series, which has featured highly esteemed leaders from various fields, aims to foster dialogue, share knowledge, and explore the challenges and solutions in the realm of law enforcement and criminal justice. It emphasizes integrity, accountability, and excellence, which remain at the heart of the CBI’s operations, as enshrined in its motto: Industry, Impartiality, and Integrity.
Awards and Recognitions
In addition to the lecture, Minister Vaishnaw will also honor CBI officers by presenting the President's Police Medals (PPM) for Distinguished Service and Police Medals (PM) for Meritorious Service. This marks the recognition of the dedication and exceptional work of the CBI personnel in maintaining law and order and addressing critical criminal investigations across the country.
CBI's Evolution: Tackling Modern-Day Challenges
The Central Bureau of Investigation was initially established to tackle cases of bribery and corruption, but over the last six decades, its mandate has expanded significantly. Today, the CBI deals with a wide range of serious crimes including terrorism, organized crime, and cyber-enabled financial crimes. The agency has also taken a leading role in addressing modern challenges, such as the rise of online child sexual abuse material (CSAM), while continuing to be the National Central Bureau for INTERPOL in India, coordinating global law enforcement cooperation.
Focus on Vision 2047
As India marches toward its ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) goal by 2047, the CBI’s roadmap will play a crucial role in shaping a future where law enforcement is more technologically advanced, responsive, and resilient in the face of emerging threats. Shri Vaishnaw’s address will explore the agency's strategic goals, aiming to address the growing need for cybersecurity, international cooperation, and more robust criminal justice systems.
Legacy of Leadership and Integrity
The event today not only commemorates Shri D.P. Kohli’s visionary leadership but also highlights the CBI’s ongoing efforts to uphold the values of integrity, impartiality, and excellence. As one of India’s most prominent investigative agencies, the CBI continues to evolve and adapt to new challenges, ensuring that its operations remain at the forefront of law enforcement in India and globally.
This 62nd Foundation Day is a momentous occasion to celebrate both the legacy of the CBI and its future vision as it continues to stand as a symbol of trust and justice for the nation.
