Yogi govt to train policemen for respectful conduct with devotees

Lucknow : With the goal of ensuring that devotees attending Mahakumbh 2025 leave with a positive and memorable experience to share with others, the Yogi government is emphasizing courteous and humble behavior from those serving the pilgrims. Recognizing the key role of the police in this effort, the Yogi administration has decided to conduct a two-tiered training program for police personnel across three sessions, with the first session already underway.

Furthermore, to prioritize the safety of devotees, training will also be extended to sailors and divers. Additionally, e-rickshaws and tempo drivers will receive instruction on various aspects, including the importance of charging fixed fares from the devotees.

Mahakumbh Mela SSP Rajesh Dwivedi shared that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, in a recent high-level meeting, directed the department to devise a comprehensive strategy to ensure respectful treatment of devotees attending the Maha Kumbh. Following the CM’s guidance, a three-phase training program for policemen was initiated, with the first session already underway.

The SSP explained that the training will be conducted in two categories: internal and external, and divided into three sessions. The first session lasts 21 days, the second will be 14 days, and the third, 7 days. The first session commenced on October 16.

He further elaborated that the internal training is being conducted in seven phases. Policemen are receiving soft skills training on how to interact with devotees, with special attention to gender sensitization, considering the large number of women pilgrims expected. Since deploying female officers everywhere may not be possible, male policemen are being trained to respect women’s privacy and address gender-sensitive situations.

Additionally, the policemen will face significant pressure during the Maha Kumbh. To help manage this, stress management training is also being provided to ensure they can perform effectively under challenging conditions.

SSP Rajesh Dwivedi noted that the Maha Kumbh will attract a diverse crowd of devotees from across India and around the globe, each speaking different languages. To facilitate communication, the ‘Bhashini app’ has been developed, and police personnel are being trained to operate it.

This app will help devotees who speak various languages to understand instructions and guidance more effectively. Additionally, officers are receiving training on how to utilize chatbots to address any inquiries from the pilgrims.

He emphasized that artificial intelligence (AI) will play a key role in enhancing security and the overall grandeur of the Maha Kumbh. Consequently, policemen are being educated about AI technologies and their applications.

As part of the second phase of external training, officers will also learn about the geographical layout of the Maha Kumbh area. This training will cover essential information related to their assigned duty points, including their sensitivity and the skills needed to perform their duties effectively under challenging conditions.

Visitors attending the Maha Kumbh will partake in a holy dip at the Sangam, prompting the need for specialized training for sailors and divers. This training will focus on the proper use of safety equipment and encouraging devotees to adhere to safety protocols.

Additionally, e-rickshaw and tempo drivers will undergo training to ensure they charge fixed fares, maintain courteous behavior, follow designated routes, and avoid obstructing intersections.