Bhubaneswar, 06 October (H.S.): The 71st Odisha Police Professional Competition was inaugurated at the Reserve Police Ground in Cuttack on Tuesday to enhance the professional skills and capabilities of police personnel from the rank of constable to inspector.

Director General of Police (DGP) Binaytosh Mishra formally inaugurated the state-level competition. A total of 319 police personnel from 39 police units across Odisha are participating in the event, along with 45 sniffer dogs and 45 handlers.

The participants include 44 inspectors, 52 sub-inspectors, 54 assistant sub-inspectors, 17 havildars and 152 constables.

Addressing the inaugural function, DGP Mishra said crime prevention, effective investigation and ensuring the rule of law are among the primary responsibilities of the police. He stressed the need for continuous enhancement of professional competence, scientific knowledge and technological skills to meet emerging challenges such as cybercrime, online fraud and crimes against women and children.

The DGP also emphasised the growing importance of scientific investigation and the proper use of forensic and digital evidence following the implementation of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam.

He described the Police Duty Meet as an important platform to assess the knowledge, skills and experience of police personnel while enabling them to learn from one another.

Mishra said the Odisha Police had taken strong measures in recent years against organised crime, extremism, drug trafficking, illegal arms trade and human trafficking. He also appreciated the efforts of police officers and personnel in ensuring speedy investigation and conviction in POCSO and other sensitive cases.

Referring to a recent theft case in Jharsuguda, in which a conviction was secured within just 17 days, the DGP congratulated the Jharsuguda SP and his team for their efforts.

The best-performing participants in the state-level competition will be selected to constitute the Odisha Police team for the forthcoming All India Police Duty Meet. The DGP urged all participants to give their best, learn from one another and bring laurels to the Odisha Police.

He reiterated that the safety and security of citizens, particularly women and children, maintaining communal harmony and preventing violence remain the highest priorities of the police. Public trust, he said, is the greatest strength of the police force, and personnel must continue to serve people with truthfulness, justice, sensitivity and dedication.

The state-level competition is being conducted under the direct supervision of Inspector General of Police, Crime Branch, Dr Sarthak Sarangi. He delivered the welcome address, while DIG, Crime Branch, Madkar Sandeep Sampad proposed the vote of thanks.

Several senior police officers were present at the inaugural ceremony.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda