77th Anniversary of Operation Polo: The Integration of Hyderabad into India

September 13, 2025, marks the 77th anniversary of Operation Polo, a landmark military action in Indian history. Also known as the Police Action, Operation Polo was conducted by the Indian Armed Forces in September 1948 to integrate the princely state of Hyderabad into the Indian Union. This operation played a pivotal role in consolidating India’s territorial integrity and setting a precedent for the peaceful integration of princely states post-independence.

What is Operation Polo?

Operation Polo was a military operation conducted by the Indian Armed Forces in September 1948. Its primary objective was to annex the princely state of Hyderabad, which had refused to join either India or Pakistan after independence. Hyderabad was a Hindu-majority state ruled by the Muslim Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan, who sought to maintain its independence as a sovereign entity.

The operation lasted from September 13th to 18th, 1948, and is remembered as a landmark event in the consolidation of India’s territorial integrity.

Why Was Operation Polo Necessary?

1. Nizam’s Refusal to Accede

After India’s independence in 1947, princely states were required to sign the Instrument of Accession to become part of India. The Nizam of Hyderabad refused to sign, wanting to remain autonomous, which created a potential political and security vacuum in the region.

2. Strategic Importance of Hyderabad

• Hyderabad was a large landlocked state in South India, covering present-day Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Marathwada (Maharashtra).

• Its independent status posed a security threat, as India feared possible alliances with foreign powers.

3. Internal Unrest

• The state witnessed communal tensions and agrarian unrest.

• The Razakars, a paramilitary force loyal to the Nizam, suppressed opposition violently.

• Language and cultural disputes further destabilized the state.

4. International Concerns

• The Nizam approached the United Nations and sought assistance from Pakistan, while stockpiling arms.

• These actions heightened India’s urgency to act decisively.

The Standstill Agreement

In November 1947, Hyderabad and India signed a temporary standstill agreement, which maintained the administrative arrangements inherited from British rule. Despite this, internal instability and the Nizam’s defiance continued, making military intervention inevitable.

Operation Polo: The Military Action

• Date: 13th – 18th September 1948

• Forces Involved: Indian Army vs. Hyderabad State Forces and Razakars

• Objective: Annex Hyderabad into India, restore peace, and integrate the state’s administration.

The operation was swift and successful. Within five days, the Indian Armed Forces overcame resistance, and the Nizam surrendered on 18th September 1948, formally integrating Hyderabad into the Indian Union.

Aftermath of Operation Polo

• The Nizam remained a titular head until December 1949.

• An unelected civilian government was appointed by the Ministry of States.

• Elections were finally held in 1952, establishing democratic governance.

Significance of Operation Polo

1. Territorial Integrity: Strengthened India’s unity and prevented a potential fragmentation of the nation.

2. Precedent for Integration: Set an example for the integration of other princely states.

3. Internal Stability: Neutralized the Razakars and quelled communal violence.

4. Strategic Security: Ensured a large, central region remained under Indian control, securing southern India.

Comparison with Other Princely States

Quick Facts About Operation Polo

• Also Known As: Police Action

• Duration: 5 Days (13–18 September 1948)

• Key Leaders: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (Home Minister), Mir Osman Ali Khan (Nizam)

• Outcome: Hyderabad integrated into India; Nizam retained ceremonial title

Conclusion

The 77th anniversary of Operation Polo reminds us of India’s efforts to maintain unity and integrity in the post-independence period. It exemplifies decisive leadership by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and highlights the challenges India faced in consolidating princely states. Operation Polo remains a significant chapter in the history of nation-building in independent India.

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