Odisha Police has achieved a remarkable milestone by rescuing 17,590 missing women and children between January and June 2026.
Acting under the direct guidance of Director General of Police Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, the Crime Against Women and Children Wing (CAW & CW) coordinated investigations and interstate operations to ensure safe reunions with families.
During this period, 4,873 children were reported missing across the state. Police successfully rescued 5,413 children, including 538 boys, 4,334 girls, and one transgender child. Puri district led the rescue efforts with 1,161 children, followed by Bhubaneswar UPD with 399 and Mayurbhanj with 278.
Similarly, 10,605 women were reported missing, while police rescued 12,177 women. Puri district again topped the list with 3,713 rescues, followed by Jajpur with 820 and Ganjam with 581. With a combined total of 4,874 rescues, Puri emerged as the best-performing district in the state.
The CAW & CW Wing has been conducting regular special drives under “Operation Anwesan” to trace missing persons. In the latest operation held from July 18 to July 22, police rescued 321 children (35 boys and 286 girls) and 2,434 women.
Odisha Police has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritising the safety of women and children. Authorities announced that similar operations will be intensified in the coming months to strengthen protection and reunification efforts across the state.
