19-Oct-2025

   Bhubaneswar, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced today that at least 20 new cybercrime police stations will soon be operational in the state. He also stated that steps will be taken to modernize the existing 14 cybercrime police stations. The Chief Minister stated that 1,127 new police posts and 170 technical experts will soon be appointed. A state-level command center will also be established under the Crime Branch, which will serve as a key center for cybercrime prevention. Majhi launched the Cyber ??Security Awareness Campaign 2025 at the Kalinga Stadium to educate the public about cyber safety. As part of the month-long campaign, awareness vehicles and programs will reach all districts except Nuapada, where by-elections will be held on November 11. Explaining the importance of the campaign, Majhi said that approximately 820 million people in India – approximately 55 percent of the population – currently use the internet, making the country the second-largest internet user in the world. He emphasized that increasing dependence on the internet has also made citizens vulnerable to cybercrime and online fraud. Majhi said, To prevent such crimes, the government has consistently focused on strengthening the cyber police, increasing awareness, and creating a safe digital environment. He praised the efforts of the Odisha Police, noting that thousands of complainants have received timely assistance through the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal and the Cyber ??Helpline (1930).            The Chief Minister reiterated that most cyber frauds occur due to lack of awareness and urged people to participate in the awareness campaign. He also expressed concern over online blackmail and mental harassment of women, directing strict action against perpetrators and warning that negligence by police officers will be addressed. During the event, Majhi flagged off 16 awareness vehicles that will tour all districts except Nuapada next month. Guests, including government officials and students, also took a pledge to promote cybersecurity. Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja thanked the Odisha Police for organizing this initiative and emphasized the importance of cyber awareness across all sectors. Director General of Police Y.B. Khurania and Director General of Crime Branch Binaytosh Mishra also addressed the gathering, highlighting the Odisha Polices initiatives and successes in preventing cybercrime.