In a significant move to transform its capabilities, the Odisha Police has begun formulating a detailed and comprehensive roadmap aimed at making the state force future-ready. This initiative is in direct alignment with the Central government's ambitious vision of Viksit Bharat by the year 2047.
Marathon Meeting Sets the Stage for Modernization
The process was set into motion on Wednesday when the Director General of Police (DGP), Y B Khurania, convened an extensive meeting with senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officers. During this session, DGP Khurania outlined key recommendations from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) that are designed to strengthen internal security frameworks and modernize policing strategies across India.
These recommendations emerged from the deliberations at the recent national conference of Directors General of Police (DGPs) and Inspectors General of Police (IGPs) held in Raipur. The objective is to ensure that Odisha's policing structure remains robust, adaptable, and prepared for future challenges.
"While there are no specific directives only for our state, we will be working on several actionable points to ensure the Odisha Police are better equipped for what lies ahead. The roadmap will concentrate on multiple critical domains," Khurania explained to The Times of India.
Key Pillars of the Odisha Police Roadmap
The strategic plan is not being created in isolation. It will seamlessly integrate with the Odisha Vision-2036, a document that charts the state's developmental path. This synchronization is particularly poignant as it coincides with two historic milestones: Odisha's centenary as a linguistic state in 2036 and India's 100th year of independence in 2047.
The proposed roadmap encompasses several forward-looking proposals:
1. Bolstering Security Infrastructure
A foremost proposal is the creation of a dedicated Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) for Odisha. This specialized unit is intended to enhance internal security and ensure rapid responses to potential terrorist threats. The state, which is working towards the Centre's target of overcoming Left-wing extremism by March, is now also shifting its focus to preparing for urban warfare scenarios that could arise in its rapidly expanding cities.
"Another top priority is strengthening our coastal security, considering Odisha's long and vulnerable coastline. This strategy will likely involve enhanced surveillance, better coordination with the Indian Coast Guard, and the deployment of modern equipment," stated the top police officer.
2. Tackling Digital and Cyber Threats
The blueprint explicitly highlights the growing challenge of cybersecurity, especially threats powered by artificial intelligence. With AI-driven crimes and digital frauds on the ascent, the Odisha Police plans to establish specialized cyber units, train its personnel in advanced digital forensics and technology, and foster collaboration with national agencies to counter evolving cyber threats effectively.
3. Building Public Trust and Modernizing Logistics
Senior officials have emphasized that public trust and cooperation are vital for effective policing. Consequently, the roadmap includes initiatives aimed at image-building through improved transparency, proactive community outreach programs, and making citizen services more friendly and accessible.
Furthermore, the plan addresses core logistical needs. Modernization of police stations, procurement of advanced vehicles for improved mobility, and recruitment drives to fill critical manpower vacancies are all slated to be rolled out in a phased manner.
A specific focus will be on making public spaces safer for women and children. This will be achieved through measures like enhanced patrolling, installation of comprehensive CCTV surveillance networks in sensitive areas, and public awareness campaigns to ensure safety is inclusive.
A Vision for a Trusted Police Force
DGP Y B Khurania stressed that this roadmap is much more than a policy document; it represents a clear vision for the future of policing in Odisha. "Odisha Police will evolve with time. Our focus is on preparedness, modernization, and building a force that citizens can trust and rely upon," he affirmed.
The comprehensive planning underscores a proactive approach to law enforcement, aiming to transform the Odisha Police into a technologically adept, citizen-centric, and strategically prepared force ready to meet the demands of the 21st century and beyond.
