₹9,165 crore Budget boost for Home Department to curb online frauds, digital arrests

The State government has proposed a comprehensive plan to strengthen the Police Department to curb online frauds and so called digital arrests. In the Budget 2026-27 presented on Saturday, ₹9,165 crore has been allocated to the Home Department.

With a focus on crime prevention and modernisation, the government plans to build a technology driven police force by establishing SMART Policing Labs and implementing AI enabled policing projects. Upgradation of communication and security equipment, expansion of CCTV networks and deployment of drones have also been proposed to enhance surveillance and response capabilities.

To tackle cyber offences effectively, Cybercrime Police Stations will be set up in every district. The government has also announced induction of 3,000 new vehicles into the police fleet to improve mobility and field operations across the State.

Finance Minister Payyavula Keshav said ₹15 crore has been earmarked for the proposed Andhra Pradesh Police Academy. The government has also sanctioned 3,920 posts for new APSP battalions to be raised in Rajahmundry, Chittoor, Ongole and Srikakulam.

For the Judiciary Department, 100 new courts have been sanctioned. Works estimated at ₹349 crore will be taken up during 2026-27 under Phase I to strengthen judicial infrastructure.

As part of the modernisation of Fire Services, 17 new fire stations will be established to reduce response time and improve emergency coverage. Advanced firefighting vehicles equipped with search and rescue tools will also be procured.

The State Training Centre will be strengthened by upgrading training infrastructure for personnel of the AP State Disaster Response and Fire Services, the Minister added.