Highlighting the urgent need to adapt to modern criminal landscapes, Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Vinaytosh Mishra officially inaugurated the 71st State Police Duty Meet at the Reserve Police Ground in Cuttack this morning.
The premier event aims to sharpen the professional efficiency, technical capabilities, and investigative skills of police personnel ranging from constables to inspectors. A total of 319 competitors representing 39 police units across the state are participating in this year’s edition. The contingent includes 44 inspectors, 52 sub-inspectors, 54 assistant sub-inspectors, 17havildars, and 152 constables, alongside 45 police dogs and their handlers.
Emphasising Modern Challenges and Forensics
Addressing the gathering, DGP Mishra underscored that crime prevention, accurate investigation, and upholding the rule of law remain the core duties of the police force. With cybercrimes, online financial frauds, and crimes against women and children evolving rapidly, he stressed that officers must constantly upgrade their professional competence, scientific knowledge, and technical skills.
The DGP noted that following the implementation of the new criminal laws—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA)—the emphasis on scientific investigation, forensic evidence, and digital proof has grown manifold. He described the duty meet as an ideal platform for officers to test their expertise and learn from one another’s experiences.
Celebrating Success and Community Trust
Reflecting on recent achievements, DGP Mishra highlighted Odisha Police’s decisive steps against organised crime, extremism, drug trafficking, illegal arms trade, and human trafficking. He praised the relentless efforts of personnel in ensuring speedy investigations and convictions in POCSO and other sensitive cases. Citing a recent milestone in Jharsuguda where a theft case secured a conviction in just 17 days, he congratulated the Jharsuguda SP and their team.
The state police chief reiterated that citizen safety, women and child protection, communal harmony, and the prevention of violence are the topmost priorities of the force. “Public trust is the greatest strength of the police, and personnel must continue serving society with truth, justice, sensitivity, and integrity,” he remarked.
Path to the National Stage
The top-performing participants in this state-level meet will be handpicked to form the official Odisha Police contingent for the upcoming All India Police Duty Meet. DGP Mishra encouraged all competitors to give their absolute best and bring pride to the state police.
The grand opening ceremony was organised under the direct supervision of IGP Crime Branch Dr Sarthak Sarangi, who delivered the welcome address. DIG Crime Branch Shri Madhukar Sandeep Sampad proposed the vote of thanks, in the presence of several senior state police officials.
