Maharashtra Government Launches Special Cell for Missing Women Search
Synopsis
In an urgent move, Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced the formation of a specialized cell aimed at locating missing women. Led by high-ranking female officers, this initiative aims to significantly enhance recovery rates across the state.
Key Takeaways
Special Cell established for locating missing women.
Led by ADG-level female officers.
10% increase in recovery of missing women reported.
Target recovery rate of 95-96% . ' Operation Muskan ' has successfully located over 41,193 children.
Mumbai, March 4 (NationPress) The Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, declared in the legislative council on Wednesday that the Maharashtra state government has established a dedicated cell aimed at locating missing women. This initiative will be led by women officers at the Additional Director General (ADG) level.
The primary objective of this cell is to strategize and execute search operations effectively. During the Question Hour in the Legislative Council, it was revealed that the efforts of this special cell have resulted in a 10 percent increase in the number of women found over the past year.
Niranjan Davkhare posed a question, while Bhai Jagtap followed up with a related inquiry.
Fadnavis emphasized that the Special Cell is conducting regular meetings under the leadership of female officers to monitor progress, along with statewide campaigns focused on locating missing women.
In the first year, approximately 55 to 60 percent of missing women are located, and this percentage rises to about 90 percent over a period of two and a half to three years.
He further mentioned that the state government's aim is to achieve a recovery rate of 95-96 percent, and efforts will persist until this goal is reached.
The government is committed to enhancing the search for missing women by introducing new operations annually.
Minister of State for Home, Pankaj Bhoyar, noted that from July 2015 to December 2024, a total of 13 Operation Muskan campaigns have been conducted in the state, successfully finding 41,193 boys and girls.
Furthermore, 14 Operation Muskan campaigns are currently in progress between January 20 and February 20, with 1,401 children—including 454 boys and 947 girls—located by February 16, 2026.
An initiative named ‘Operation Shodh’ has been launched to specifically search for missing women and children. A Nirbhaya squad has also been formed to ensure the safety of women and children. Additional measures include increasing police patrolling and appointing police uncles and police sisters to combat atrocities against women and girls,” stated Minister Bhoyar.
He also highlighted that women's helplines are now available at all police stations across the state.
Point of View
The establishment of a special cell to locate missing women in Maharashtra marks a noteworthy step in addressing a critical societal issue. This initiative, led by women officers, not only emphasizes the government's commitment to women's safety but also highlights the ongoing challenges faced in this area. The targeted approach and measurable goals set forth signal a proactive stance that could serve as a model for other regions.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the special cell announced by CM Fadnavis?
The special cell aims to search for missing women in Maharashtra, focusing on strategic planning and execution of search operations.
How many women have been located in the past year?
The special cell has facilitated a 10% increase in the number of women found compared to the previous year.
What is the target recovery rate set by the Maharashtra government?
The state government's target is to achieve a recovery rate of 95-96% for missing women.
What initiatives are included in 'Operation Muskan'?
'Operation Muskan' has conducted several campaigns since 2015, successfully locating over 41,000 missing children.
What measures are being taken to ensure women's safety?
The state has established a Nirbhaya squad, increased police patrols, and implemented women's helplines across all police stations.
