Security Stepped Up For Pravasi Bharatiya Divas

BHUBANESWAR: The state capital of Odisha, is under tight security for the three-day Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) event, which starts on Wednesday at Janata Maidan. The event will see high-profile attendees, including President Droupadi Murmu on Friday and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday.

In response, the police have deployed more than 50 platoons of police forces, as well as personnel from the Special Protection Group, National Security Guard, Border Security Force, and Central Reserve Police Force. These personnel are stationed at key locations for heightened security.

Police Commissioner S Dev Datta Singh highlighted that the state is fully prepared after successfully conducting the all-India DGP/IGP conference, attended by top officials like the Prime Minister, Union Home Minister, and National Security Adviser.

The PBD convention, which will be Odisha's first, is expected to attract over 3,500 delegates, including Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) from various countries. To ensure smooth operations, extensive security arrangements have been made at the venue, delegate accommodations, and critical infrastructure. A focus on the safety of VVIPs remains a top priority.

The authorities have established enhanced security with quick reaction teams, anti-sabotage squads, intensified patrolling, and inspections of hotels. The city is under surveillance, supported by CCTV and human intelligence teams. Visitors have been urged to contact the police helpline (1965) in case of emergencies, and help desks have been set up at the venue, hotels, and tourist spots.

Additionally, a training session for personal security officers (PSOs) took place, covering skills such as behavior management and the use of WhatsApp chatbots for event security. To further support security operations, the "Pravasi Mitra" initiative has deployed trained volunteers who will assist the police with traffic management, parking regulation, and ensuring the smooth running of the event.