Chief Minister Odisha Mohan Charan Majhi. |Photo source: Biswaranjan Rout
In view of the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Odisha government strengthened the security of the entire major defence facilities and their extensive coastline on Friday (9 May 2025).
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said reliable intelligence input has prompted Chandipur’s integrated test range (ITR) to increase vigilance – India’s main missile testing facility and Puri’s Shree Jagannath Temple. “We have arrested potential threats from the Pakistani attack that could have come from the Bay of Bengal side. Although the center has been fully informed, the state government is taking all necessary precautions,” he said.
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Mr. Majhi also announced efforts to assist ODIA students stranded in vulnerable areas. He said: “We are taking all measures to bring back students from high-risk areas. A dedicated cell has been established in the Office of the Resident Commissioner in New Delhi and a help desk is helping.
Mr Majhi added that ensuring citizens have no cause of panic, “Even if there is a possibility of prolonged conflict, India will undoubtedly prevail.”
In coordination with the Indian Coast Guard, the state’s marine police have strengthened coastal surveillance. Fishing boats are being thoroughly recorded and background checks are being conducted for all personnel at sea. The local fishing community is asked to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
In addition, Odisha police conducted a comprehensive review of security arrangements surrounding strategic defense agencies, including the ITR in Chandipur and the Proof and Experimental Agency (PXE). Threat assessment, surveillance measures and emergency preparedness are issues discussed during the review.
publishing – May 10, 2025 at 05:07 AM IST
