PRESS RELEASE ON THE 257TH AND 258TH REPORT OF THE DEPARTMENT-RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ON HOME AFFAIRS

Posted On: 17 MAR 2026 5:26PM by PIB Delhi The Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs, chaired by Dr. Radha Mohan Das Agrawal, M.P., Rajya Sabha presented/laid the following Reports in the Parliament today, i.e. , 17 th March, 2026:- 257 th Report on the ‘Demands for Grants (2026–27) of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)’;and 258 th Report on the ‘Demands for Grants (2026–27) of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER)’. The Committee had considered the draft reports and adopted the same in its meeting held on 16 th March, 2026. The Recommendations/Observations made by the Committee in these Reports are enclosed. The Reports, as presented to Parliament, are available on the Rajya Sabha website at: https://sansad.in/rs/committees/departmentally-related-standing-committees → Home Affairs → Report. RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS - AT A GLANCE 257 th Report on the ‘Demands for Grants (2026-27) of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)’ OVERALL ASSESSMENT OF DEMANDS FOR GRANTS (2025-26) OF THE MHA HEAD-WISE PROJECTIONS AND ALLOCATIONS AT BE 2026-27 FOR DEMAND NO. 51 The Committee notes that while overall allocation under Demand No. 51 has increased in BE 2026-27, the allocation is lower than the projected requirement under several modernization and infrastructure-related heads. The Committee is of the view that sustained moderation from projected levels, particularly under Police Infrastructure, Border Infrastructure and technology upgradation, may affect the pace of capacity enhancement. (Para 2.5.6) The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Ministry undertake periodic review of expenditure under critical heads and take up additional requirements, if warranted, at the Revised Estimates stage so that priority programmes relating to internal security, border management and modernization are not adversely impacted due to shortage of funds. (Para 2.5.7) The Committee further emphasises the importance of effective financial management, timely utilisation of funds and avoidance of disproportionate expenditure in the last quarter of the financial year to ensure optimal outcomes from the allocations made. (Para 2.5.8) BUDGETARY ALLOCATION (2026-27) OF DEMAND NO. (52-59) FOR UNION TERRITORIES The total expenditure incurred by the Union Territories with Legislature (Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir and Puducherry) against the Revised Estimates of FY 2025-26 stands at ₹42,882.63 crores, which is 93.02% of the RE allocation as on 31 st January, 2026. The Committee notes that utilisation levels among these Union Territories are comparatively higher. The Committee stressed upon the need for timely release of funds and effective coordination between the Ministry and the respective UT administrations to ensure smooth execution of schemes. The Committee observes that allocations for Union Territories continue to constitute a significant portion of the Ministry’s overall budget. Given the developmental requirements of the UTs, particularly in respect of physical infrastructure, social sector services and administrative strengthening, adequate provision under the Capital Head assumes importance. Particular attention may be accorded to UTs with fragile ecological and geographic conditions, where infrastructure development entails additional financial implications. (Para 2.6.7 ) The Committee recommends that the Ministry closely monitor capital expenditure in the Union Territories and address any emerging shortfall at the Revised Estimates stage so that ongoing projects and developmental initiatives are not adversely affected. The Committee further recommends that capital-intensive projects in geographically sensitive UTs may be prioritised to avoid implementation delays. (Para 2.6.8 ) The Committee notes that while the overall budgetary allocation to the Ministry has increased during the year under review, moderation between projected requirements and final Budget Estimates is evident across certain heads. The Committee is of the view that internal security, Census operations, disaster management preparedness and infrastructure modernisation constitute critical national priorities and require sustained and timely financial support. The Committee expects that additional requirements, based on utilisation trends, may be considered at the Revised Estimates stage so that priority programmes are not adversely affected. (Para 2.6.9 ) OFFICIAL LANGUAGE The Committee notes the measurable targets fixed by the Department of Official Language for 2026–27, including translation of 20,000 letters and 40,000 pages, imparting Hindi training to 25,000 personnel, training of 1,175 officials by the Central Translation Bureau, expansion of the Hindi Shabd Sindhu repository to 7.5 lakh words, preparation of a Medical Shabd Sindhu dictionary in 15 Indian languages, and inspection of approximately 852 offices/banks/undertakings by Regional Implementation Offices. The Committee appreciates the outcome-oriented approach reflected in the fixing of quantifiable physical targets and expects effective implementation of the proposed targets. Further, the Ministry may explore expansion of domain-specific terminologies, particularly in emerging sectors such as digital governance, artificial intelligence, cyber security and health sciences, so as to strengthen the practical usability of Hindi in technical and administrative communication. (Para 3.2.5 ) The Committee further notes the technological interventions undertaken by the Department, particularly the upgradation of the AI-based translation platform “Bharati – Bahubhashi Anuvada Sarthi”, its integration with e-Office, and the establishment of the Indian Languages Section to facilitate multilingual correspondence between the Centre and States. The Committee is of the view that while these initiatives are commendable, the Ministry may consider instituting a robust performance-monitoring framework to assess the quality, timeliness and actual utilisation of translated content across Ministries and Departments. The Committee also recommends that periodic impact assessment studies may be undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of Hindi training programmes and the functional usage of trained personnel in official work. (Para 3.2.6 ) NATIONAL DISASTER RESPONSE FORCE (NDRF) The Committee notes the significant increase in operational commitments of the NDRF, as reflected in the rising number of operations conducted during the last three years. The Committee appreciates the role played by the Force in responding to disasters across multiple States/UTs and its participation in international humanitarian assistance operations. However, the Committee observes that despite increasing operational responsibilities, no additional battalion has been raised during the last three years and the posted strength (14,837) remains considerably below the authorised strength (18,581). The Committee recommends that the Ministry may undertake a comprehensive assessment of manpower gaps and expedite measures to fill vacancies so as to ensure optimal operational readiness. The Term of deputation may be revised to incentivize more personnel from Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to join the NDRF. (Para 3.3.6 ) The Committee appreciates the critical role of the NDRF in disaster response and emphasizes the need for adequate funding to address its demands, particularly for additional personnel. The shortage of funds for such critical schemes can adversely impact the functioning of the NDRF. The Committee recommends that the MHA may approach the Ministry of Finance at the Revised Estimates (RE) stage to secure the additional funds, if required, ensuring that operational efficiency and preparedness are not compromised during emergencies. (Para 3.3.7 ) The Committee further observes that only about 10% of the total allocation in BE 2026–27 has been earmarked for capital expenditure. In view of the increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters, the Committee recommends that greater emphasis may be placed on strengthening capital assets, advanced rescue equipment, ICT-enabled response systems and regional infrastructure to reduce response time and enhance disaster preparedness. (Para 3.3.8 ) RELIEF AND REHABILITATION FOR MIGRANTS AND REPATRIATES The Committee appreciates the sustained efforts of the Government in providing relief and rehabilitation to Migrants and Repatriates. In view of the reduction in allocation, the Committee recommends that continued monitoring of socio-economic conditions of rehabilitated beneficiaries may be ensured, particularly in respect of livelihood support, housing and integration. (Para 3.4.4 ) FREEDOM FIGHTERS (PENSION AND OTHER BENEFITS) The Committee appreciates the steps taken to streamline administrative processes through integration of the Freedom Fighters Samman Yojana Portal with the Registrar General of India, simplification of policy guidelines and issuance of Standard Operating Procedures for closer engagement with aged beneficiaries. The Committee commends the Ministry for ensuring continued provision of pension, railway travel facilities and maintenance of Freedom Fighters’ Homes, thereby upholding the dignity and welfare of the remaining beneficiaries. (Para 3.5.4 ) HELICOPTOR SERVICES The Committee notes the reduction in budget allocation for helicopter services due to decreased demand from State and UT Governments and acknowledges the critical role these services play in providing accessibility to remote areas. It appreciates the operationalization of helicopter services in new sectors like Jammu–Mendhar–Jammu in the Jammu Division. The Committee observes that expenditure in the North Eastern Region is comparatively higher, whereas utilisation in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh remained lower upto 31.12.2025. The Committee recommends that a region-wise demand assessment and seasonal utilisation review may be undertaken to ensure optimal deployment of helicopter services and efficient use of allocated funds. Further, new routes in Jammu and Ladakh may be explored to ensure seamless connectivity. (Para 3.6.4 ) INFRASTRUCTURE FOR DISASTER MANAGEMENT The Committee notes that some sub-schemes under Disaster Management Schemes are presently under revision for continuation beyond March, 2026. The Committee recommends that the Ministry may finalise well in advance, a comprehensive roadmap clearly outlining the objectives, scope, financial outlay and measurable outcomes of the revised Scheme so as to avoid any implementation gaps and ensure seamless continuity of infrastructure development. The Committee further recommends that an outcome-based evaluation framework may be incorporated in the revised Scheme to assess the impact of infrastructure augmentation on response time, operational readiness and disaster resilience. In this regard, the Committee is of the view that lessons learnt from community-based initiatives such as the Aapda Mitra Scheme may be systematically documented and integrated into future planning, particularly in strengthening last-mile preparedness, community participation and coordination between trained volunteers and response forces. The revised scheme must aim to develop pan-India multi-hazard response capability. India needs a strong disaster data infrastructure to collect, collate and analyse information to help policy makers make informed decisions. (Para 3.7.4 ) CENSUS, SURVEY AND STATISTICS/REGISTRAR GENERAL OF INDIA The Committee notes the substantial increase in allocation to ₹6,000 crore in BE 2026–27 on account of full-fledged Census 2027 operations and appreciates the Government’s preparedness to undertake India’s first fully digital Census. The Committee is of the view that given the scale and sensitivity of the exercise, meticulous planning, inter-governmental coordination and technological robustness are critical for its successful conduct. The Committee recommends that the Ministry may ensure timely finalisation of all preparatory activities, including training of approximately 30 lakh Census functionaries, deployment of secure digital infrastructure and seamless coordination with State Governments to avoid operational bottlenecks. The Committee further recommends that a clear dissemination calendar may be prepared for release of provisional and final Census data so as to facilitate evidence-based policy formulation at the earliest. (Para 3.8.5 ) The Committee also emphasises the importance of robust data protection safeguards, including end-to-end encryption, cyber-security audits and real-time monitoring mechanisms, to preserve data integrity and public trust. In view of the adoption of digital tools and self-enumeration facilities, the Committee recommends that adequate public awareness campaigns be undertaken to ensure informed participation and prevent misuse of digital platforms. (Para 3.8.6) HOME GUARDS The Committee notes that although the allocation under the head “Home Guards” has improved in BE 2026–27, it remains modest in comparison to the expanding role of Home Guards in elections, disaster response and internal security duties. The Committee recommends that the Ministry, in consultation with States/UTs, may undertake a comprehensive assessment of financial and operational requirements so that central assistance is commensurate with the increasing deployment responsibilities of the force. The Committee further recommends that proposed digital initiatives, including the “Seva Path” platform and digitalisation of wage disbursement, may be implemented in a time-bound manner across States/UTs to ensure transparency, equitable deployment and timely disbursement of honorarium through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). (Para 3.9.3 ) The Committee further recommends that modernisation of training modules and integration of Home Guards as first responders with State Disaster Response Forces (SDRFs) may be institutionalised through structured joint exercises and periodic refresher training. Emphasis may also be placed on provision of climate-suitable uniforms, modern protective gear and essential equipment to enable effective discharge of duties during disasters, elections and internal security operations, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and morale of the force. (Para 3.9.4) CENTRAL ARMED POLICE FORCES (CAPFs) The Committee notes that the allocation for Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) has shown a steady increase over the last three years, with the total outlay rising from ₹1,04,824.10 crores in Actuals 2024–25 to ₹1,16,789.30 crores in BE 2026–27. The Committee observes that the increase is largely attributable to higher provisions under allowances, medical expenditure, provisioning items, ICT and Machinery and Equipment, reflecting the growing operational commitments and administrative requirements of the Forces. The Committee further notes that while Revenue expenditure constitutes the predominant share of the allocation, enhanced provisions have also been made under the Capital Section towards machinery & equipment and motor vehicles. In view of the expanding role of CAPFs in border management, counter-terrorism, internal security and election duties, the Committee recommends that sustained emphasis may be placed on modernisation of equipment, technology upgradation and infrastructure strengthening to enhance operational efficiency and response capability. The Ministry may periodically review the ratio of Revenue to Capital expenditure with a view to ensure the capital investments in modern equipment, mobility and surveillance systems keep pace with evolving security challenges. (Para 4.2.5) REPRESENTATION OF WOMEN IN CAPFS The Committee notes the steps taken by the Government to enhance the representation of women in CAPFs, including reservation of posts and other supportive measures. However, the Committee observes that, in addition to recruitment, sustained improvement in women’s representation also depends on reducing attrition. The Committee also emphasises the importance of increasing women’s participation in the officer cadre so as to ensure their presence at decision-making and leadership levels. The Committee believes that improving service conditions, enhancing retention, and promoting greater induction of women into the officer cadre will contribute significantly to achieve higher and sustained representation of women in CAPFs. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Government may take focused measures to create a more women-friendly working environment in the Forces so as to improve retention of women personnel. The Ministry may strengthen institutional support systems, ensure availability of adequate facilities, and address workplace concerns effectively so that women personnel are able to continue in service without undue hardship. The Ministry may explore flexible deployment options or soft postings during specific life stages to enhance retention. (Para 4.3.5) CADRE REVIEW OF CAPFS The Committee notes the Cadre Review measures undertaken across various CAPFs and Assam Rifles, including creation of additional posts, rationalization of rank structures and steps to address stagnation in promotion. The Committee observes that while these measures have facilitated career progression in certain cadres, several reviews are still under process and their benefits will materialize only after timely implementation, including approval of Recruitment Rules, formulation of new Peace Establishments and conduct of Departmental Promotion Committees meetings. The Committee has also observed that there are concerns regarding stagnation in promotion from the rank of Inspector (Group ‘B’) to Assistant Commandant (Group ‘A’) in the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). The Committee recommends that prolonged stagnation at supervisory levels may adversely impact morale, motivation and career progression of personnel. The Ministry may undertake a comprehensive cadre review of the concerned ranks to examine promotional avenues, vacancy position and promotion timelines. Appropriate measures, including rationalisation of promotional quotas, timely conduct of Departmental Promotion Committees meetings and review of cadre structure, may be considered to ensure a fair and time-bound career progression framework. Steps may also be taken to ensure parity in career progression among officials/officers of different CAPFs. The Limited Departmental Competitive Examination (LDCE) for promotion to the rank of Assistant Commandant may also be conducted through the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in CAPFs, on the lines of the existing arrangement in the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), so as to ensure greater transparency, uniformity and credibility in the selection process. (Para 4.4.7) WELFARE MEASURES FOR CAPF The Committee appreciates the comprehensive welfare framework put in place for families of CAPF and Assam Rifles personnel killed in action and for rehabilitation of retired personnel. The Committee notes the institutional mechanism established through the Welfare and Rehabilitation Board (WARB) and the deployment of Central, State and District Welfare Officers across the country. The Committee recommends that the Ministry may evolve a structured outcome-monitoring mechanism to periodically assess the effectiveness of financial assistance, pensionary benefits, scholarship schemes and re-employment initiatives, so as to ensure timely delivery and long-term socio-economic stability of beneficiary families. (Para 4.5.6) The Committee recommends that re-employment initiatives under the “CAPF Punarvaas” scheme may be strengthened through greater coordination with Public Sector Undertakings and private sector entities, and that data regarding placements and self-employment outcomes may be periodically compiled and reviewed. Special emphasis may be placed on skill development and counselling support for widows and dependents to enable sustainable livelihood opportunities. (Para 4.5.7) The Committee observes that the availability of housing units remains significantly below the authorised strength, with only 1,35,544 dwelling units presently in place against a sanctioned capacity of 2,68,346 units. In addition, 10,430 units are currently under construction, which, when completed, will marginally improve the situation. At present, the housing satisfaction level stands at 50.14%, reflecting the considerable shortfall in meeting the sanctioned requirements. Upon completion of the ongoing projects, this figure is projected to rise to 54.03%, indicating some progress but still underscoring the persistent gap between authorised strength and actual availability. The existing housing gap requires sustained and time-bound augmentation. The Committee recommends that personnel deployed in hard-duty, border and high-risk operational areas may be accorded priority in allotment of residential accommodation. Completion of ongoing housing projects may be closely monitored and that a phased roadmap may be prepared to progressively enhance housing satisfaction levels across the Forces. (Para 4.5.8) Further, the Committee recommends that given the increasing operational stress and deployment in difficult terrains, access to quality and timely medical care assumes critical importance for CAPF personnel and their families. Periodic review of empanelled hospitals, claim settlement timelines and beneficiary coverage may be undertaken to ensure comprehensive and timely medical support to serving and retired personnel and their dependents. (Para 4.5.9) The Committee also take notes of the enhancement of Central ex-gratia compensation and the assurance of a minimum financial support package from various sources. While acknowledging the existing structure, the Committee recommends that the Ministry may examine the feasibility of evolving a broad and simplified categorisation of ex-gratia compensation so as to ensure clarity, uniformity and equity. The framework may remain sensitive to operational realities while avoiding over-fragmentation of categories. (Para 4.5.10) MANPOWER IN ASSAM RIFLES & CAPFS The Committee notes with concern that the total vacancies across CAPFs and Assam Rifles stand at 93,139, with significant gaps particularly in the Other Ranks (ORs) category. While appreciating the measures undertaken to expedite recruitment through coordination with SSC/UPSC, time-bound medical examinations and designation of nodal-force for coordinating recruitment, the Committee is of the view that sustained high vacancy levels may adversely impact operational effectiveness, increase deployment pressure and affect morale of personnel. The Committee recommends that the Ministry may prepare a time-bound plan to fill vacancy, with clearly defined annual targets and periodic monitoring at the highest level. (Para 4.6.5 ) The Committee appreciates the initiatives taken towards stress management, including Annual Medical Examination with psychological assessment, Ayushman CAPF coverage for mental health, MoUs with specialised institutions and conduct of yoga and mental well-being programmes. However, considering the high operational stress and deployment in difficult terrains, the Committee recommends that mental health concerns, particularly among Other Ranks deployed in field formations, require sustained and institutional attention. Structured mental health screening, confidential counselling mechanisms and strengthened field-level psychiatric support may be provided across formations. Data relating to stress-related cases, counselling interventions and rehabilitation outcomes may be periodically reviewed to assess the effectiveness of existing measures and to ensure long-term psychological resilience of the Forces. (Para 4.6.6 ) MODERNIZATION PLAN IV FOR CAPFS The Committee notes that Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Anti-Drone equipment form an integral component of Modernization Plan-IV, particularly in view of emerging threats along international borders and in internal security concerns. Considering the increasing use of drones for surveillance, smuggling and hostile activities, the Committee recommends that procurement and deployment of drone and counter-drone systems may be accorded priority and fast-tracked, especially in border guarding forces. The indigenous technology solutions may be encouraged, and integrated command-and-control mechanisms may be developed to ensure real-time surveillance, intelligence sharing and operational response across formations. Further, special emphasis should be laid in training capacity building measures related to operation and handling of UAVs and counter-drone systems. (Para 4.7.8) The Committee observes that Modernization Plan-IV aims to bridge the technological gap between existing inventory and contemporary operational requirements. However, procurement delays due to technical complexities and tender-related issues have resulted in delays in implementation. The Committee recommends that a streamlined procurement framework with better technical vetting, advance planning and monitoring of delivery schedules may be initiated to avoid last-minute rush and accumulation of committed liabilities. Sustained capital allocation under both scheme and general budget heads may be ensured to progressively modernise weapons, communication systems, surveillance equipment and protective gear so as to enhance operational preparedness of CAPFs in diverse and challenging environments. (Para 4.7.9) DELHI POLICE The Committee notes that increasing representation of women in police forces is essential for promoting gender-sensitive policing, improving public trust and enhancing response to crimes against women and vulnerable sections. The Committee is of the view that Delhi, being the National Capital with a diverse and dense population, requires a strengthened and balanced force structure reflecting adequate representation of women personnel at all levels. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Ministry, in coordination with Delhi Police, may prepare a phased and time-bound roadmap to enhance the strength of women personnel to at least 33 percent of the total sanctioned strength. Focused recruitment drives, adequate training capacity, provision of suitable infrastructure including separate accommodation and facilities, and enabling service conditions may be ensured to achieve this objective in a sustainable manner. (Para 4.8.6) The Committee observes that hesitation among citizens to visit police stations often stems from perceptions of inaccessibility, lack of transparency and discomfort in interacting with personnel. Such barriers have potential to discourage reporting of crime, weaken community participation and reduce trust in law enforcement. The Committee, therefore, recommends that Delhi Police may adopt a citizen-centric policing model to make police stations more approachable, transparent and responsive. In this regard, the Ministry and Delhi Police may explore and adopt best practices such as establishing dedicated One-Stop Citizen Service Desks at police stations to assist visitors with inquiries and reporting procedures; deploying Community Liaison Officers for outreach and follow-up with local communities; creating Victim Support Corners to provide private and supportive spaces for women, children and senior citizens; instituting structured feedback and grievance redressal mechanisms with defined timelines; and prominently displaying service charters outlining procedures and rights of complainants. (Para 4.8.7) The Committee recommends expansion of mobile and community policing initiatives through regular engagement in markets and residential areas, and strengthening of online reporting and appointment systems to facilitate access without requiring physical visits. Regular training of personnel in communication skills, sensitivity and public interface management may also be undertaken, and periodic community satisfaction surveys may be conducted to assess and improve service delivery. (Para 4.8.8) The Committee observes that cases relating to missing persons, particularly women, children and vulnerable individuals, have significant social and security implications in a metropolitan city like Delhi. The Committee is of the view that a data-driven and research-oriented approach is necessary to understand the underlying socio-economic, demographic and behavioural factors contributing to such cases. The Committee, therefore, recommends that Delhi Police may undertake a comprehensive sociological study in collaboration with reputed universities and research institutions to analyse patterns and root causes of missing persons’ cases. The study may include comparative analysis of missing rates in Delhi vis-à-vis other metropolitan cities in India as well as selected international cities, with a view to identifying best practices and systemic gaps. The findings of such a study may be utilised for policy formulation, preventive strategies, improved tracking mechanisms and community-based interventions. (Para 4.8.9) Further, the Committee observes that effective implementation of provisions relating to plea bargaining under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) can play a significant role in reducing pendency of cases, expediting disposal of minor offences and easing the burden on investigating agencies, courts and correctional institutions. The Committee also observes that structured use of plea bargaining mechanisms may contribute to faster resolution of cases, reduced undertrial prisoners and improved efficiency of the criminal justice system. The Committee, therefore, recommends that Delhi Police may take proactive steps to sensitise investigating officers and supervisory officers regarding the scope and procedural requirements of plea bargaining under the BNSS. Awareness measures may be undertaken, in coordination with prosecution and legal services authorities, to ensure informed participation of eligible accused persons. Periodic review of cases disposed off through plea bargaining may also be conducted to assess its effectiveness in reducing case backlog and custodial burden. (Para 4.8.10) The Committee, further, notes the increasing deployment of CCTV cameras, body-worn cameras, traffic surveillance systems, IoT-enabled devices and integrated communication platforms by Delhi Police as part of modernization and smart policing initiatives. While appreciating the technological advancements, the Committee also observes that robust data protection and cybersecurity safeguards are critical to prevent misuse, unauthorised access, data breaches and compromise of sensitive operational personal information. The Committee, therefore, recommends that Delhi Police may adopt a comprehensive data security framework covering encryption standards, secure data storage, controlled access protocols, periodic cybersecurity audits and real-time monitoring of surveillance systems. (Para 4.8.11) The Committee recommends that private individuals and establishments installing CCTV systems may be encouraged or mandated to procure devices only from manufacturers that comply with notified data security, encryption and secure server standards. Periodic advisories and awareness campaigns may also be issued to promote adoption of secure systems and prevent misuse, hacking or unauthorised access to surveillance data. (Para 4.8.12) TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT IN DELHI The Committee notes that 62 major traffic congestion points have been identified across Delhi and corrective measures are being undertaken in coordination with civic agencies. The Committee recommends that a time-bound action plan with clearly defined responsibilities for each stakeholder agency may be prepared for all identified hotspots. Periodic public reporting of progress and measurable indicators such as reduction in average travel time, queue length and accident rates may be introduced to assess effectiveness of interventions. A long-term urban mobility perspective, including coordination with urban planning authorities, may also be integrated into traffic management strategies to ensure sustainable decongestion and a system of traffic flying squads may be put in place so that the same may be deployed at designated points during peak hours. (Para 4.9.5 ) The Committee observes that unregulated parking around office complexes, courts, hospitals and commercial establishments significantly contributes to congestion and obstruction of roads. The Committee recommends that Delhi Police, in coordination with Municipal and Urban Development authorities, may undertake a comprehensive parking management strategy, including strict enforcement against illegal parking on roads and residential areas, promotion of designated parking zones and use of technology-enabled parking monitoring systems. The Committee further recommends that commercial establishments may be mandated to ensure adequate off-street parking facilities to reduce spill-over onto public roads. (Para 4.9.6 ) The Committee notes with concern the increasing instances of unnecessary honking in the National Capital, leading to noise pollution and public inconvenience, particularly in residential areas and near schools, hospitals and courts. The Committee recommends that Delhi Police may intensify enforcement of existing provisions relating to use of horns and pressure horns, especially in notified “No-Horn Zones”. The Committee further recommends that sustained sensitisation and public awareness campaigns may be undertaken to discourage habitual and non-essential honking, and that technology-enabled enforcement measures may be explored to ensure compliance and promote responsible road behaviour. (Para 4.9.7 ) The Committee also notes instances of motorcycles fitted with modified or non-standard silencers that produce excessive noise, leading to sound pollution and causing disturbance and unease to commuters and residents. The Committee recommends that Delhi Police may strengthen enforcement against such violations through regular checking drives, strict penalties and coordination with transport authorities to ensure compliance with prescribed vehicle noise standards. (Para 4.9.8 ) The Committee observes that begging at traffic signals not only poses safety risks but also disrupts traffic flow. The Committee recommends that Delhi Police may work in coordination with Social Welfare Departments and Civil Society Organisations to address this issue through a humane and rehabilitative approach. Sustained enforcement at major intersections may be combined with rehabilitation, counselling and livelihood support initiatives to address the root causes of the problem. (Para 4.9.9) CENTRAL POLICE ORGANIZATIONS The Committee notes that narcotics trafficking routes are increasingly exploiting vulnerable stretches along land and coastal borders. Keeping in view of the transnational nature of drug trafficking and its linkage with organized crime and internal security concerns, the Committee recommends that the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) may intensify coordination with police forces of border States and with other border guarding agencies to ensure sustained area domination and intelligence-based interdiction in vul