Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday launched the Cyber Security Awareness Campaign 2025, emphasizing that awareness is the most powerful weapon to combat cybercrime, which has emerged as one of the biggest challenges of modern society.
The month-long campaign will cover all districts of Odisha except Nuapada and will feature specially designed awareness vehicles, public programs, and educational activities aimed at promoting cyber safety among citizens. The state-level launch event was held at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.
Highlighting the growing importance of digital safety, the Chief Minister noted that around 82 crore people—about 55 percent of India’s population—use the internet, making India the world’s second-largest internet user base. He said that as people become increasingly dependent on digital systems in their everyday lives, they are also becoming more vulnerable to online frauds and cybercrimes.
Majhi underlined that the Odisha Government is committed to strengthening cyber policing, enhancing public awareness, and ensuring a secure digital environment. He announced that 20 new cyber police stations will soon become operational across the state, while the existing 14 cyber police stations are being modernized.
In addition, the Chief Minister revealed plans for the appointment of 1,127 new police personnel and 170 technical experts, along with the establishment of a state-level command center under the Crime Branch, which will serve as a Center of Excellence in cybercrime prevention.
Acknowledging the proactive efforts of the Odisha Police, Majhi commended the timely assistance provided to thousands of victims through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and the Cyber Helpline 1930. However, he cautioned that despite institutional measures, the main cause of cyber fraud remains a lack of public awareness. He urged citizens to stay alert and informed while using digital platforms.
Expressing concern over rising cases of online blackmail and harassment targeting women and girls, the Chief Minister directed the police to act decisively against perpetrators and warned of strict action against any police personnel who fail to respond appropriately.
At the event, the Chief Minister flagged off 16 awareness vehicles that will travel across the state for a month to spread cyber safety messages.
Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja commended the Odisha Police for organizing the initiative and emphasized that cyber security awareness should be a collective responsibility beyond departmental boundaries.
Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania outlined ongoing police efforts to tackle cybercrime, while Crime Branch Director General Binaytosh Mishra delivered the vote of thanks.
