Question : MODERNISATION OF POLICE

(a) whether the Government has taken any steps to modernise the police force in various States of the country; and

(b) if so, the details thereof?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS (SHRI SHRIPRAKASH JAISWAL)

(a) : Yes, Sir.

(b) : The Ministry of Home Affairs has been implementing a non-plan scheme for Modernization of the State Police Forces since 1969-70. The scheme was operated on a 50:50 cost-sharing basis between the Centre and the State Governments till 2002-03.All the major items of police administration are included under this scheme for funding i.e. construction of police buildings, housing, mobility, weaponry, communication/security/ surveillance/forensic science/ training equipment, etc.

During 2000-01 the annual Central allocation under the scheme was enhanced to Rs. 1000 crore.On account of the difficulties being faced by majority of the States to contribute their matching share, the scheme was revised in 2003-04 and funding pattern under the scheme was changed by grouping the States into three categories i.e. A, B1 and B2 on the basis of level of insurgency/terrorism/cross-border terrorism being faced by the States. The Central funding to the three categories is 100%, 75% and 60% respectively.This resulted in enhancement of the annual Central allocation to Rs. 1400 crore.

A statement showing the details of the amounts released to State Governments and the utilization reported by the State Governments during the last four years upto 31.3.2004 is enclosed.