Arunachal CM announces additional Rs 100 crore for police reforms, highlights anti-corruption stance

During the 52nd Raising Day celebration of the Arunachal Pradesh Police (APP) held at IG Park, Chief Minister Pema Khandu announced an additional funding boost of Rs 100 crore for the State Police Department, supplementing its existing budgetary allocations. 

Emphasizing the state government's dedication to modernizing and reforming the police force, Khandu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to addressing the challenges and needs faced by law enforcement personnel.

“We are steadfast in our resolve to drive police reforms, facilitate modernization, and cater to the grievances of our police force,” Khandu stated. He urged the Home Minister and the Director General of Police (DGP) to craft a comprehensive plan for the effective and judicious utilization of the allocated funds.

In his address, Chief Minister Khandu called upon the state police to prioritize maintaining peace, which he described as a fundamental indicator of a society’s maturity. “Peace is the cornerstone for uninterrupted development,” he noted, underlining its significance in the state’s growth narrative.

Highlighting his zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, Khandu asserted, “As long as I hold the position of Chief Minister, corruption in any form will not be tolerated.” This strong stance reflects the government's ongoing efforts to instill accountability and integrity within the administration.

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The Chief Minister also spoke about the Comprehensive Surrender Policy aimed at encouraging youth to distance themselves from insurgent activities and re-enter mainstream society. He called on district police forces to actively support this initiative and motivate young individuals to abandon subversive elements.

Addressing the issue of drug abuse, Khandu underscored the pivotal role of the police in combatting drug trafficking. He highlighted that beyond arrests, the police must take proactive measures to prevent addiction and assist in rehabilitating affected youth.

Reflecting on his tenure since 2016, Khandu pointed to key advancements in strengthening the APP, including enhancing the ex-gratia amount for police personnel who sacrifice their lives in service to Rs 50 lakh, alongside a guaranteed government job for the martyr’s next of kin. He also reminded the gathering of the state’s highest honor, the 'Arunachal Ratna,' which was posthumously awarded to DySP Late Bomto Kamdak for his sacrifice.

Khandu further revealed that the state cabinet had recently approved the granting of Special Grade promotions for Constables, Head Constables, and Assistant Sub-Inspectors across various police units, ensuring smoother career progressions for personnel.

The Chief Minister highlighted other notable initiatives taken over the past nine years, such as the direct recruitment of 2,993 personnel across various categories, the acquisition of 1,678 vehicles to enhance police operations, the installation of CCTV systems in all police stations, and the transformation of the first Central Jail into a Correctional Home with a 1,000-inmate capacity. Additionally, he mentioned the notification of 21 Mahila Police Stations (seven of which are operational), the establishment of a permanent NDRF Battalion at Hollongi, and the training of 1,100 volunteers under the Aapda Mitra program.