‘Operation TRACE’ helped detect 4,600 missing women, minor girls in A.P., says Home Minister

Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha has informed the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly that 3,928 women and 1,730 minor girls were reported missing in the State as of January 27, 2026. Of this, 3,159 women and 1,496 minor girls (4,655 in total) have been traced so far.

Replying to a question raised by Jana Sena Party (JSP) MLA Bathula Balaramakrishna during the Question Hour on Wednesday, the Home Minister said that continuous monitoring and coordinated district-level action had improved tracing rates substantially. A key initiative contributing to this progress is ‘Operation TRACE’ (Track, Reconnect, Assist, Counsel and Empower). Launched on August 1, 2025, the programme has streamlined case registration, investigation, and follow-up through dedicated teams operating at both district and State levels, she said.

Referring to women’s safety infrastructure, the Minister highlighted the functioning of the Women and Child Safety Wing (WCSW), headed by an officer of Inspector General of Police (IGP) rank, which focuses exclusively on crimes against women and children.

Shakti WhatsApp helpline

She informed about technology-enabled interventions, including the ‘Shakti’ app, which provides 13 safety features such as SOS alerts and facilities to report missing children. In addition, a 24×7 Shakti WhatsApp helpline (7993485111) has been operational to assist women in distress.

To curb harassment and enhance on-ground vigilance, 164 Shakti teams have been deployed across hotspots to provide immediate assistance. The government has set up 26 One-Stop Centres offering integrated legal, medical, and psychological support to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.

On the legal front, the Minister said focused trial monitoring since June 1, 2024, has led to 497 convictions in cases related to crimes against women and children. Authorities have opened 4,837 sexual offender sheets to monitor habitual offenders and prevent repeat crimes.

The government is focused on strengthening institutional mechanisms and ensuring the safety, dignity, and swift justice for women and minor girls across Andhra Pradesh, she said.