Cuttack, April 1: The Odisha Police commemorated its 91st Foundation Day on Wednesday with a ceremonial parade and official function held at the Reserve Police Ground in Buxi Bazar, Cuttack. The event was attended by Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, who served as the chief guest and inspected the parade.
The annual observance brought together senior officials, police personnel, and dignitaries to reflect on the force’s legacy and outline its future priorities. The ceremony also included tributes to fallen personnel and recognition of officers for distinguished service.
A Legacy Rooted in “Service and Security”
Addressing the gathering, DGP Khurania reiterated that the guiding principle of the Odisha Police—“Service and Security”—is more than a slogan. He described it as the foundational ethos shaping the force’s operations and public engagement.
He emphasized that the police department is working toward making Odisha a safer and more stable state, with a particular focus on reducing crime, eliminating drug networks, and strengthening public trust in law enforcement institutions.
The DGP began his address by paying homage to police personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty. He expressed solidarity with their families and acknowledged their sacrifices as central to the force’s identity.
Key Announcements and Achievements
Anti-Maoist Operations Show Progress
One of the major highlights of the address was the progress made in countering Maoist insurgency in the state. Maoist groups, which have historically operated in certain districts of Odisha, pose a security challenge through armed activities and influence in remote areas.
According to the DGP, security forces have intensified operations since 2025, leading to measurable outcomes. A total of 27 hardcore Maoists have been neutralised, while 72 individuals have surrendered and reintegrated into mainstream society.
Officials attribute the increase in surrenders to the state government’s rehabilitation policy, which offers incentives and support systems for former insurgents willing to give up violence.
Cybercrime Emerges as a Major Concern
Khurania identified cybercrime as one of the most pressing challenges facing modern policing. With the increasing use of digital platforms, financial fraud, identity theft, and online scams have become more prevalent.
To address this, Odisha Police has adopted advanced technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics, to track and prevent cyber offences.
Under a targeted initiative known as “Operation Cyber Kavach,” the police conducted large-scale monitoring and enforcement actions. The operation involved the examination of 39,714 suspicious bank accounts linked to potential fraud activities.
As a result, authorities registered 1,422 new cybercrime cases and arrested 379 individuals accused of various digital offences. These figures indicate a proactive shift toward technology-driven policing in response to evolving crime patterns.
Crackdown on Narcotics Trade Intensifies
The DGP also highlighted significant achievements in combating drug trafficking and illegal cultivation. The state has been focusing on dismantling drug networks and reducing the supply of narcotics.
Police seized contraband substances—including ganja (cannabis), brown sugar (a form of heroin), and cannabis oil—valued at over ₹3,000 crore. Additionally, illegal cultivation spread across 48,160 acres of land was destroyed during coordinated operations.
Law enforcement agencies arrested 654 individuals involved in interstate drug trafficking and confiscated assets worth more than ₹10 crore linked to drug syndicates.
Khurania reiterated the department’s goal of making Odisha a drug-free state within the next three years, describing it as a key priority for public health and safety.
Strengthening the Police Force
The Odisha government has taken steps to enhance the capacity of the police force by creating new positions, accelerating recruitment processes, and establishing additional battalions and specialised units.
These measures aim to address manpower shortages, improve response times, and ensure better coverage in both urban and rural areas. Increased staffing is also expected to support specialised operations, including cybercrime investigations and anti-narcotics enforcement.
Faster Investigations Under New Criminal Laws
The DGP noted improvements in investigation efficiency following the implementation of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which replaced parts of India’s colonial-era criminal laws.
The updated legal framework is designed to streamline procedures, enhance accountability, and enable quicker resolution of cases.
Khurania cited several examples to illustrate the impact of faster investigations. In one case at Morada police station in Mayurbhanj district, a case was resolved within 19 days. Other cases were concluded within 37 days at Chandaka police station in Bhubaneswar, 39 days in Jamda, and 40 days at Aali police station.
Such timelines represent a significant improvement compared to traditional case durations and are seen as a step toward delivering timely justice.
Recognising Excellence in Service and Sports
As part of the Foundation Day celebrations, several police personnel were honoured for their contributions to law enforcement. Awards were presented for exemplary service, dedication, and operational success.
The event also highlighted achievements in sports, showcasing the athletic capabilities of Odisha Police personnel. The state’s police team secured second place in a recent All India Police Shooting Competition.
Additionally, athletes from the force earned multiple medals—including gold, silver, and bronze—in national-level competitions. A gold medal in rowing and the setting of 11 new meet records by seven athletes at the State Police Athletic Championship were also noted as significant accomplishments.
These achievements reflect the emphasis placed on physical fitness and discipline within the police force.
Messages from State Leadership
During the ceremony, Additional Director General of Police (Headquarters) Prateek Mohanty read out congratulatory messages from the Governor and the Chief Minister of Odisha.
The messages acknowledged the role of the police in maintaining law and order, addressing emerging security challenges, and supporting development initiatives across the state.
Context and Significance
The Odisha Police was established on April 1, 1936, following the formation of the state. Over the past nine decades, the force has evolved in response to changing socio-political and technological landscapes.
From dealing with insurgency and organised crime to tackling cyber threats and financial fraud, the scope of policing has expanded considerably.
The 91st Foundation Day serves as both a commemorative occasion and a platform to assess progress. It provides an opportunity for the department to review its strategies, recognise achievements, and communicate priorities to the public.
Public Impact and Why It Matters
The developments highlighted during the event have direct implications for citizens across Odisha.
Efforts to curb Maoist activity contribute to improved security in previously affected regions, enabling infrastructure development and economic growth. Similarly, the crackdown on drug trafficking aims to reduce substance abuse and associated crime.
The focus on cybercrime is particularly relevant in an increasingly digital society, where individuals and businesses face growing risks from online fraud. Initiatives like Operation Cyber Kavach are intended to protect financial systems and enhance public confidence in digital transactions.
Faster investigations under the new legal framework also have a tangible impact on the justice system. Shorter case timelines can reduce delays, improve conviction rates, and strengthen trust in law enforcement institutions.
At the same time, investments in recruitment and training are expected to improve overall policing standards, ensuring better service delivery and responsiveness.
As Odisha Police enters its 92nd year, officials have outlined an agenda focused on modernisation, efficiency, and community engagement. With a combination of traditional policing methods and technological innovation, the department aims to address both longstanding and emerging challenges while reinforcing its commitment to public safety.
Inputs and images : Hindusthan Samachar
Edited By E. Devanshi varma
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Last Updated on: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 2:26 pm by E. Devanshi Varma | Published by: E. Devanshi Varma on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 2:26 pm | News Categories: India, News
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