LUCKNOW, June 13 -- The Uttar Pradesh government has approved a comprehensive police modernisation package worth Rs.87.15 crore for the financial year 2025-26, aimed at strengthening the state's operational, technological and counter-terror capabilities under the Centre-sponsored Assistance to States for Modernisation of Police Forces (MPF) scheme. According to a government order issued by the Home (Police) Department on Thursday, the project comprises a central share of Rs.52.29 crore and a state share of Rs.34.86 crore, with funds earmarked for procurement of modern weapons, surveillance systems, communication equipment, cyber forensic infrastructure, anti-drone technology and specialised vehicles for Uttar Pradesh Police. The approved purchases include 2,000 nine-mm pistols, 100 sub-machine guns and seven sniper rifles, intended for security units, the Uttar Pradesh Special Security Force (UPSSF) and district police formations. The package also provides for advanced equipment for the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), including mobile phone unlocking tools, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), real-time viewing systems and panoramic night-vision devices. A significant component of the modernisation plan focuses on enhancing intelligence gathering and technological policing. The state government approved procuring a social media monitoring and analysis tool worth Rs.6 crore, along with cyber forensic laboratories for training purposes, reflecting the increasing importance of digital investigations and online surveillance in policing. To improve communication and field operations, the police force will acquire digital VHF radio systems, mobile radio units, handheld communication devices and wireless public address systems. The package also includes 1,000 body-worn cameras, protective gear for thousands of male and female police personnel, and 10 anti-drone guns to counter emerging aerial threats. The government additionally sanctioned simulator firing ranges to improve training standards and cyber forensic laboratories to strengthen investigative capabilities. For riverine and flood-prone areas, the police will receive 200 rubberised inflatable boats and 200 outboard motors, enhancing disaster response and water-based policing operations. Mob-control infrastructure also received attention under the scheme, with approval for procuring 14 DRDO-approved Vajra mob-control vehicles for district police units....