Uttar Pradesh Government Approves Major Financial Allocations for Key Security and Rehabilitation Initiatives
The Uttar Pradesh government has given its approval for substantial financial allocations in the 2026–27 financial year, targeting three critical areas: disaster response, anti-narcotics enforcement, and prison-based agricultural development. These strategic investments are designed to enhance public safety, strengthen law enforcement capabilities, and promote rehabilitation through skill development.
Strengthening Disaster Response with New SDRF Teams
Under the Home (Police) department, the government has sanctioned Rs 14.87 crore on the capital side to operationalize three new State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams across the state. This significant allocation is earmarked for the procurement of essential resources, including vehicles, machinery, specialized rescue equipment, and various operational tools.
Officials emphasized that this move aims to enhance the state's capacity to respond swiftly to a wide range of emergencies. These include floods, building collapses, road accidents, industrial mishaps, and other natural or man-made disasters. The establishment of new teams is expected to improve geographical coverage and significantly reduce response times in vulnerable districts, ensuring quicker assistance during crises.
In addition to the capital expenditure, the government has allocated Rs 13 lakh under the revenue head specifically for the maintenance of vehicles and fuel expenses related to SDRF operations. This ensures that the newly acquired assets remain operational and ready for deployment at all times.
Boosting Anti-Narcotics Enforcement with Incentive Fund
Simultaneously, the government has taken steps to strengthen the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) by creating a dedicated corpus fund of Rs 1 crore. This fund is designated to reward police personnel for exemplary investigation and enforcement work during narcotics-related operations. The initiative is seen as a motivational tool to encourage diligent efforts in combating drug trafficking and abuse across the state.
Promoting Prison-Based Agricultural Activities
In a parallel development focused on rehabilitation, the Uttar Pradesh government has sanctioned Rs 56.22 lakh for the purchase of tractors and allied agricultural equipment. This investment targets three newly constructed district jails: Shravasti, Sant Kabir Nagar, and Pratapgarh.
Agricultural activities are being actively promoted in these facilities as part of inmate engagement and skill development initiatives. Officials explained that the procurement of tractors and modern farm implements will serve multiple purposes:
- Utilize available prison land more efficiently
- Promote self-sustenance in food production
- Provide inmates with practical agricultural training
This approach not only aims to reduce operational costs but also equips inmates with valuable skills that can aid their reintegration into society post-release. The focus on vocational training through agriculture underscores the government's commitment to holistic rehabilitation strategies within the prison system.
Together, these financial approvals reflect a comprehensive strategy by the Uttar Pradesh government to address immediate security concerns while fostering long-term social development through targeted investments in critical sectors.
