PM Modi expands ‘smart policing’ vision at DGP-IGP Conference

Emphasizes technology, innovation, and AI to address emerging security challenges

By Dr Rama Chandra Behera

Bhubaneswar, Dec. 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the 59th All India Conference of Director Generals and Inspector Generals of Police in Bhubaneswar, called for an expanded vision of “Smart Policing,” urging law enforcement to become strategic, meticulous, adaptable, reliable, and transparent.

The Prime Minister, speaking at the valedictory session, distributed the President’s Police Medals for Distinguished Service to officers of the Intelligence Bureau and expressed satisfaction over the strategic countermeasures discussed to address national and global security challenges.

PM Modi highlighted the growing threats posed by digital frauds, cybercrime, and Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly the disruptive potential of deep fakes on social and familial relationships. He called on police forces to turn these challenges into opportunities by leveraging India’s “double AI power”—Artificial Intelligence and Aspirational India.

To encourage innovation, he suggested organizing a National Police Hackathon to solve pressing security issues and stressed the need for adopting technology to reduce the workload of police personnel.

Appreciating progress in urban policing, the Prime Minister proposed scaling successful initiatives to 100 cities across India for broader impact. He also highlighted the critical need to expand focus on port security and develop a future-ready action plan to protect the nation’s coastal and maritime interests.

Recalling Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s contribution to the Ministry of Home Affairs, PM Modi urged the police forces to commemorate Patel’s 150th birth anniversary in 2025 by setting and achieving goals that enhance the image, professionalism, and capabilities of law enforcement.

He emphasised the need for modernization and alignment with the vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) to meet the nation’s evolving security needs.

The conference featured in-depth deliberations on various national security challenges, including counterterrorism, left-wing extremism, cybercrime, economic security, immigration, coastal security, narco-trafficking, and border issues with Bangladesh and Myanmar. Participants reviewed the implementation of new criminal laws and shared best practices in policing.

The hybrid-format event was attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and other senior officials. DGPs and IGPs from all states and Union Territories participated physically, while over 750 officers joined virtually from across the country.

The conference concluded on a high note, with PM Modi setting a clear roadmap for strengthening India’s internal security framework and urging the police force to embrace innovation, technology, and professionalism.