Panaji: The government has allocated Rs 1,100 crore to the Goa police department. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced infrastructure projects exceeding Rs 200 crore, including new police stations, outposts, and residential quarters. He also stated that additional vehicles would be provided for the Pink Force, along with four forensic vehicles, and that 30 more personnel would be added to strengthen the forensic unit.
Sawant stated that the Goa Police has successfully established an artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning lab to enhance crime investigations. This advanced technology accelerates criminal
tracking, enabling faster and more accurate case resolution. Additionally, a radical content analyser has been developed to combat online radicalisation and curb extremist propaganda.
Sawant announced plans to establish a Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security in Goa. He also stated that the Goa Vehicle Authentication (GOVA) system would be implemented to streamline vehicular movement, enhance road safety, and ensure compliance with traffic laws.
He said that through this system, once essential documents of the vehicles are verified digitally at the check post, a QR code shall be generated which when displayed on the vehicle shall not be subjected to repeated checks at multiple points, preventing inconvenience to tourists and facilitating smooth travel.
Prison Department
As part of the reform process, Sawant said that he intend to set up a semi-open prison concept which will allow selected prisoners to work under supervision of a supervisor in places like farms, petrol pumps, washing centres which will give the prisoners an opportunity to integrate into the mainstream.
Sawant said that the government has launched various initiatives like masala grinding unit for women prisoners, Smart Card Pay Phone Service, IGNOU study centre at the Central Jail, Colvale.
He said that modernisation of the prison at Colvale will be completed by December 2025 under which modern equipment required for the prison to enhance the security will be provided. The prison department has been allocated Rs 34.29 crore.
Fire & Emergency Services
The allocation to the fire and emergency services department is Rs 129.21 crore. Sawant said that the department will be strengthened by providing modern firefighting equipment such as water tenders, turn table ladders and hazardous material response vehicle. This will enhance the disaster response capability and reduce the response time to emergencies and disasters, Sawant said.
