Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Tuesday performed the traditional Shastra Pujan at the Indore Police Lines on Vijayadashami and used the occasion to make a series of policing announcements, including a decision to fill 18,500 vacant posts in the state police department over the next two years, according to a state government release reported by IANS.

Amid Vedic chants, the Chief Minister worshipped traditional weapons such as swords and spears along with modern arms including AK-47 rifles. He also performed Kanya Pad Pujan, inspected the armoury, and offered prayers at police vehicles and horses. A guard of honour was presented by the women police contingent.

During the programme, Yadav launched the 'Police Setu' app, which will enable citizens to find information about their local police station and the officers on duty in their area and contact them directly based on their location. He also flagged off 51 motorcycles provided to the Indore Police under the Ideal Traffic Safe City project by the Honda India Foundation through CSR funds, released a road-safety awareness poster, and a short film prepared by Indore Police on its anti-drug awareness initiatives was screened.

The Chief Minister also announced plans to establish police bands in every district, with 750 personnel to be recruited for the initiative, and said special examinations through the Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission would be held next year as part of the government's focus on youth.

Addressing the gathering, Yadav said Shastra Pujan is a symbol of India's Sanatan culture, valour, strength and commitment to duty, and that carrying arms is not merely a display of power but a responsibility to alleviate the sufferings of society, protect citizens and maintain order. Indore Police Commissioner Santosh Kumar Singh said the department was working to improve public services through technology and other initiatives.

Sources: IANS; Madhya Pradesh government release (via Vision MP, BizzBuzz and Nation Press).