AP Budget 2026–27: Cyber Crime police stations in every district to tackle digital arrest scams, online fraud

Amaravati: The Andhra Pradesh government has unveiled an ambitious roadmap to modernise and strengthen the state police force in the Annual Budget 2026–27.

Presenting the Budget on Saturday, Finance Minister Payyavula Keshav announced a series of technological upgrades, infrastructure expansion, and welfare measures aimed at restoring the dignity and efficiency of the police system.

Stating that the government is committed to rebuilding the reputation of the police force, which he said had suffered in recent years, the Minister quoted former US President Ronald Reagan: “When good people are not afraid, evil forces become weak.”

3,000 new vehicles for police

To strengthen field-level policing, the government will soon provide 3,000 new vehicles to the police department, enhancing mobility and response capabilities across the state.

Special Cyber Crime police stations in every district

In view of rising digital crimes such as online fraud and digital arrest scams, the government will establish dedicated Cyber Crime Police Stations in every district.

The initiative aims to equip law enforcement agencies with specialised expertise to tackle emerging cyber threats effectively.

Smart policing labs and AI-based projects

The Budget proposes the establishment of Smart Policing Labs and the introduction of Artificial Intelligence-based policing projects.

Other technological upgrades include:

Advanced communication and security equipment

Expanded CCTV surveillance networks

Drone deployment for monitoring and enforcement

These measures are aimed at building a technologically robust and future-ready police system.

New AP Police Academy on 94 acres

The government has allocated 94 acres for setting up a new Andhra Pradesh Police Academy. An initial allocation of ₹15 crore has been proposed in this financial year to commence construction works.

Four new APSP Battalions sanctioned

Four new India Reserve APSP battalions will be established in:

Srikakulam

Rajamahendravaram

Prakasam

Chittoor

A total of 3,920 posts have been sanctioned under this expansion.

Recruitment and improved police-public ratio

To improve the police-to-population ratio, the government has recruited 5,757 Stipendiary Cadet Trainee (SCT) Constables.

Their monthly stipend during training has been enhanced from ₹4,500 to ₹12,000, providing financial support during the training period.

₹500 crore released for pending dues

The government has released nearly ₹500 crore towards pending payments, including:

Travel Allowance (TA)

Dearness Allowance (DA) arrears

Leave-related dues

Medical reimbursements

Group personal accident insurance restored

The Group Personal Accident Insurance Scheme has been revived, offering free insurance coverage ranging from ₹20 lakh to ₹45 lakh, covering personnel from constable to Director General of Police.

‘EAGLE’ wing to crack down on Ganja Cultivation

To curb the spread of illegal ganja cultivation over the past five years, a special enforcement wing named ‘EAGLE’ will intensify operations using drones and surveillance technology.

‘Shakti App’ for Women’s Safety

The government will launch the ‘Shakti App’ to enhance women’s safety. The app is designed to ensure police response within seven minutes of receiving a distress alert.

The Minister emphasised that strict action will be taken against offenders involved in harassment and crimes against women.

He also said that the budget signals a comprehensive push towards modernisation, accountability, and welfare within the Andhra Pradesh police force, combining technology-driven policing with improved support systems for personnel.