Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi presented the demand for grants for the Home department, highlighting the state government’s efforts to modernize the police force and improve law and order.
The Central Government has approved Rs. 25.55 crore for the modernization of the State Police Department under the Assistance to States & UTs for Modernization of Police (ASUMP) scheme for the current financial year 2024-25.
Out of the approved amount, Rs. 12.7750 crore was released by the State Government on February 27, 2025. A significant portion of this amount, Rs. 7,57,17,078, has been invested in purchasing Smart Policing equipment, including communication equipment, forensic training, and modern vehicles.
The state government has also dedicated newly constructed buildings of 16 police stations, equipped with modern facilities. To enhance police efficiency, fast-moving Scorpio vehicles and new motorbikes will be provided to police stations. Additionally, the state government has allocated Rs. 63.82 crores for purchasing various types of vehicles under the state budget grant.
The government has implemented the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) and plans to expand it in its second phase between 2025-26 and 2028-29. The Odisha Fire and Emergency Service has been providing assistance during natural calamities and has appointed 941 fire fighters and fire fighter drivers.
Majhi said that the government has also taken steps to strengthen the prison department, including the construction of a new model jail and a district jail. Furthermore, the recruitment process for caretakers has been initiated, and the government has lifted the ban on their recruitment.
