New Delhi: More than 250 CRPF officers have received their first promotion after waiting nearly 15 years, marking a major step towards addressing long-standing career stagnation in India's largest paramilitary force.

In a major morale boost for the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), 263 Assistant Commandants have finally been promoted to the rank of Deputy Commandant after waiting nearly 14 to 15 years for their first career advancement.

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The promotions were approved through an order issued by the CRPF headquarters on June 26 after prolonged delays caused by litigation, disputes over seniority and vacancies, and pending service-related issues. Officials said the promotions followed a Supreme Court order issued on April 16, after which the CRPF worked with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to clear the long-pending cases.

A senior CRPF officer said the first promotion should normally take place within five years of joining service. However, due to unresolved administrative and legal issues, many officers remained in the same rank for almost three times that period.

Although promoted, the officers will continue serving in their present locations for the time being, as fresh posting orders have not yet been issued because of operational and administrative requirements.

The CRPF described the development as a significant milestone, while field formations across the country have begun organising rank-pinning ceremonies to honour the newly promoted officers.

Officials also said the promotions are expected to create a ripple effect throughout the force. Vacancies created at the Assistant Commandant level will allow promotions from the Inspector rank, opening opportunities for personnel in lower ranks as well.

Earlier this year, CRPF Director General GP Singh had assured officers and jawans that resolving promotion stagnation was among the organisation's highest priorities.

The CRPF, comprising around 3.25 lakh personnel under the Ministry of Home Affairs, is India's largest Central Armed Police Force. It plays a key role in counter-insurgency operations against Naxal violence, tackling militancy in the North East, and maintaining security in terrorism-affected areas of Jammu and Kashmir.