Nagaland government strengthening police force: Governor

Kohima, Mar 24 : Nagaland Governor Nikhil Kumar has said the state government was strengthening its police forces to reduce dependence on the Central forces for law and order duties.

Addressing the members of the House at the state legislative assembly yesterday, the Governor informed that the state police has strength of more than 26,000 and is the biggest source of employment for Naga youth.

He also said the new Indian Reserve (IR) battalions has been raised, equipping them with modern weaponry and equipment.

Mr Kumar further mentioned that the state police is in high demand for internal security duties in various parts of the country due to their excellent record.

Nagaland has also successfully raised and trained six commando companies to make the state better prepared for dealing with terrorist threats, he said.

On the recently raised 15 IR Mahila Battalion, the Governor commented that they have won the hearts of the people all over the country with their efficient performance and smart turnout during the last Commonwealth Games in New Delhi.

Construction of new permanent battalion headquarters, up-gradation of the police hospital to first referral hospital and provision of sophisticated security equipment are some of the steps taken to modernise the police force, the Governor informed.

Mr Kumar also lauded the efforts of the village guards for providing safety and security in villages located along the porous Indo-Myanmar border, over the years.

He informed that the Centre has approved the proposal of the state government to enhance the monthly honorarium of the village guards from Rs 500 to Rs 1500.

He also informed the House that the Village Guard Organisation has been given a separate allocation of Rs four crore for housing and offices under Special Plan Assistance during 2010-11.