Meerut, Oct. 14 -- Chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday announced a 40% increase in the monthly honorarium of around 68,000 Gram Praharis (village watchmen), raising it from Rs.2,500 to Rs.3,500, as also cashless medical treatment of up to Rs.5 lakh annually for them and their families. Addressing a programme at Bareilly Police Lines, the chief minister said the honorarium hike would provide each Gram Prahari an additional Rs.12,000 annually. Their monthly payment was last increased from Rs.1,500 to Rs.2,500 in 2019, he said. Describing Gram Praharis as the equivalent of CCTV cameras in villages, Yogi urged them to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities, rumours, wildlife threats and land mafia operations to the police. He directed station house officers and local sub-inspectors to hold weekly meetings with them, address their concerns and ensure appointments against vacant posts. "A single piece of information from a Gram Prahari can prevent a major mishap," he said, adding that they should report suspicious developments rather than confront anyone themselves. Targeting previous governments, Yogi alleged that Uttar Pradesh had witnessed lawlessness before 2017. He claimed improved security had enabled people to celebrate festivals, including Navratri, without fear. The chief minister also honoured 11 Gram Praharis for outstanding service by presenting them with traditional safas and gift hampers....