New Delhi, Aug 12 (NationPress) The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has unveiled substantial advancements in the modernization of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and the enhancement of welfare initiatives, with a Rs 1,523 crore Modernisation Plan-IV in progress for the 2022–2026 timeframe.

This initiative encompasses the Assam Rifles, BSF, CISF, CRPF, ITBP, NSG, and SSB, concentrating on the improvement of weaponry, surveillance systems, protective gear, armoured vehicles, and training infrastructure.

Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai addressed the Lok Sabha, stating that these actions are designed to ensure operational readiness while prioritizing the welfare of those who serve on the nation's frontlines.

The Centre has also enhanced its capabilities in combating cybercrime through the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, and the Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System (CFCFRMS). These initiatives have contributed to the prevention of over Rs 5,489 crore from being siphoned off by fraudsters amidst more than 17.82 lakh complaints.

To date, more than 9.42 lakh SIM cards and 2.63 lakh mobile IMEIs associated with criminal activities have been blocked. On the welfare front, CAPF personnel stationed in challenging areas like J&K receive additional allowances, including enhanced HRA, free rail warrants, and air travel benefits. Housing satisfaction levels have improved to 48.8 percent, with 16,364 new houses constructed since 2019, while the “CAPFs eAwas” portal has allocated over 1.31 lakh houses with clear and fair inter-force allotment options.

Families of personnel who have lost their lives in terrorist or enemy actions are eligible for a Rs 35 lakh ex-gratia, with Rs 25 lakh provided for other accidental deaths while on duty. The Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme awards 2,000 scholarships each year to the children of CAPF members, offering monthly stipends of Rs 3,000 for girls and Rs 2,500 for boys.

Healthcare benefits have been broadened under the Ayushman CAPF initiative, which was launched in 2021, providing cashless treatment in over 34,000 empanelled hospitals.

Nearly 41 lakh Ayushman CAPF identity cards have been issued to personnel and their families. For post-retirement support, the CAPF Punarvaas scheme links former personnel to private security job opportunities, while the Welfare and Rehabilitation Board guarantees assistance to families of deceased and disabled personnel.

Additional advantages include concessional products available through the Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandar and special pension schemes such as Liberalised Pension Awards and Extraordinary Family/Disability Pension.