LUCKNOW, March 6 -- The Uttar Pradesh government has sanctioned over Rs.4.22 crore to strengthen security arrangements at the Ram temple complex in Ayodhya and during VVIP movements, public rallies and major religious events across the state, senior home department officials said on Friday.

In the first order issued by the home department on Friday, Rs.3.53 crore was approved for the procurement and installation of security equipment under the first phase of the Integrated Security Plan-2023 for the Ram Janmabhoomi pilgrimage area.

The sanctioned funds will be used to purchase 34 bullet-proof jackets and two bullet-proof Mahindra Marksman vehicles. The amount will also cover the remaining 20% payment to the Uttar Pradesh Rajkiya Nirman ...