Prime Minister Narendra Modi, presiding over the concluding session of the 60th All India Conference of Director Generals and Inspector Generals of Police in Naya Raipur on Sunday, laid out an ambitious roadmap for a comprehensive reset of India's policing and internal security apparatus.
Embracing Technology for Smarter Policing
The Prime Minister emphasized the critical role of technology, urging police and administrative bodies to extensively adopt digital platforms, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and integrated databases. He specifically highlighted the need to fully leverage systems connected under NATGRID and use AI to convert vast data pools into actionable intelligence for proactive crime prevention.
Held at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Naya Raipur, the conference's theme, 'Viksit Bharat: Security Dimensions,' set the stage for discussions on long-term security goals leading up to Vision 2047. PM Modi underlined the urgent need to transform the public perception of the police, particularly among the youth, by instilling greater professionalism, sensitivity, and responsiveness at every level of the force.
Strategic Shifts in Security and Law Enforcement
Modi's address covered a wide spectrum of security priorities. He stressed the importance of stronger urban policing and the rejuvenation of tourist police systems. A major focus was placed on creating widespread public awareness about the newly enacted Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, and Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, which replace colonial-era criminal laws.
On the strategic front, the Prime Minister called for innovative models in island security and coastal policing, underlining their importance to national security. He reiterated the need for robust mechanisms to monitor banned outfits regularly and ensure the holistic development of areas recently freed from Left Wing Extremism, ensuring that security gains lead to lasting peace and progress.
A Holistic Approach to Modern Challenges
Addressing the drug abuse crisis, PM Modi advocated for a Whole-of-Government approach, moving beyond treating it as a purely policing issue. This strategy would integrate enforcement agencies, rehabilitation systems, and community-level interventions for a more effective solution.
To strengthen the criminal justice system, the Prime Minister asked police organizations to encourage universities and academic institutions to undertake case studies on forensic applications. He asserted that greater use of forensics would significantly bolster investigations and prosecutions.
Highlighting the growing significance of disaster management, Modi cited cyclones, floods, and the ongoing situation of Cyclone Ditwah. He urged police chiefs to reinforce mechanisms for coordinated disaster management, emphasizing that proactive planning, real-time coordination, and a prompt response are essential to protect lives and minimize disruption.
During the conference, Prime Minister Modi distributed the President’s Police Medals for distinguished service to Intelligence Bureau officers. He also presented awards to the three best-performing cities in urban policing under a newly instituted framework designed to reward innovation. The event was attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and senior police and security officials from across the nation.
