Tripura Police officer Babulal Debnath receives Rah-Veer Samman Smarak 2026 in Mumbai for saving an elderly accident victim through swift action, highlighting courage, road safety awareness, and humanitarian service during India’s national Sadak Suraksha Abhiyan.
A routine family errand turned into a moment of extraordinary courage for Babulal Debnath, an officer of the Tripura Police Service, whose timely humanitarian intervention has now earned him national recognition. On January 23, 2026, Debnath was honoured with the prestigious Rah-Veer Samman Smarak 2026 at a grand ceremony held at Film City in Mumbai, celebrating individuals who have demonstrated exceptional bravery in road safety emergencies.
The award was presented by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, during The Grand Telethon of Sadak Suraksha Abhiyan 2026, organised by Network-18. The event witnessed the presence of prominent Bollywood personalities including Amitabh Bachchan, Vicky Kaushal, and Alia Bhatt, adding national prominence to the ceremony. Debnath was recognised as one of the top five Rah-Veers of the country, a distinction reserved for citizens whose actions have directly saved lives on Indian roads.
Debnath’s journey to national honour began on July 1, 2025, while he was returning from Agartala airport after dropping his daughter. While passing through Durjoynagar, he noticed an elderly woman lying severely injured on the roadside following a road accident. With no immediate medical assistance or bystanders stepping forward, Debnath took charge of the situation without hesitation.
He stopped his vehicle, mobilised nearby residents, and swiftly arranged for the injured woman to be transported to the Trauma Centre of AGMC & GBP Hospital. Medical professionals later confirmed that the prompt response and rapid evacuation played a crucial role in saving the woman’s life, preventing fatal complications caused by delayed treatment.
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For the Tripura Police fraternity, Debnath’s recognition goes far beyond an individual achievement. Senior officers and colleagues have described his act as a powerful example of compassion, courage, and civic responsibility. They emphasised that policing is not confined to enforcing law and order but also involves standing up for humanity whenever the situation demands.
The Rah-Veer Samman Smarak initiative aims to encourage citizens to assist road accident victims without fear, reinforcing the message that timely help can mean the difference between life and death. Debnath’s story stands as a reminder that heroism often emerges in unexpected moments and that true service to society transcends uniform, designation, and duty hours.
