People of Uttarakhand are peace loving but being a state adjoining international borders, it may face challenges to its internal security in the future like the Maoist threat, he said.
"Maoism may endanger internal security in Uttarakhand especially in areas close to the international borders due to the defence strategy of neighbouring countries. This is a challenge which has to be strongly dealt with and the police force must be ready to take on the challenge".
He said the state police had proved its efficiency by smooth conduct of huge religious congregations like the Ardhkumbh, 2004, Mahakumbh, 2010 and the the annual Char Dhaam yatras.
Showering praise on those who made valuable contribution to the movement for creation of Uttarakhand, Quraishi said women of the region also played a vital role in helping the agitationists achieve their goal of statehood.
Giving away medals to meritorious police personnel for their good performance, the Governor expressed hope that their achievements will inspire the younger generation to work hard and emulate their example.
