Odisha Launches Cyber Security Awareness Drive to Combat Rising Digital Threats
Bhubaneswar, Oct 18, 2025 — In a bold move to counter the surge in cyber crimes, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today inaugurated the Cyber Security Awareness Campaign–2025 at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar.
The month-long initiative aims to educate citizens across the state on digital safety, fraud prevention, and responsible online behaviour.
Sixteen specially designed awareness vans were flagged off to tour all districts—excluding poll-bound Nuapada—conducting rallies, interactive sessions, and public programs. “Cyber crimes pose a massive challenge to our society today, but awareness is our strongest shield,” Majhi declared, urging citizens to stay alert and informed.
India’s digital footprint continues to expand, with over 82 crore internet users—55% of the population—making the country second globally in online penetration.
Yet, this growth has been accompanied by a rise in online scams, blackmail, and harassment, particularly targeting young women.
To strengthen cyber policing, the Odisha government announced:
- Recruitment of 1,127 new police personnel and 170 technical experts
- Establishment of 20 new Cyber Crime Police Stations
- Modernisation of 14 existing stations
- Creation of a state-level Command Centre under the Crime Branch as a Centre of Excellence
Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja emphasised that cyber security is a shared responsibility, while DGP Y.B. Khurania and Crime Branch ADG Vinaytosh Mishra outlined proactive measures already taken by the Odisha Police, including support via the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and the 1930 helpline.
The campaign underscores Odisha’s commitment to safeguarding its 4.6 crore citizens in an increasingly digital world.
