Bhubaneswar: In a significant step to reinforce coastal security and national unity, Odisha Police unfurled the national flag at 14 islands, including Udabali, ahead of the Republic Day celebrations.
The flag was unfurled by Director General of Police Y B Khurania at Udabali Island off Dhamra Port in Bhadrak district, making the tricolour flutter in mid-sea as a symbol of both pride and vigilance.
This initiative was undertaien at 13 other coastal islands, signifying a concerted effort to assert sovereignty and deter potential infiltrators via sea routes.
The move comes amid repeated allegations that Bangladeshi intruders enter coastal areas and establish sett
lements, prompting the Odisha Police to emphasise maritime safety.
The state has a nearly 500-km-long coastline. With many of the islands being deserted and potentially attractive to infiltrators, the symbolic presence of the tricolour is intended to highlight territorial integrity. Fishermen in the region have been advised to exercise heightened caution to help curb any illegal activities around these islands.
DGP Khurania also announced that the Odisha Police have activated long-term plans to fortify coastal security arrangements, including modernisation and enhanced surveillance measures.
Officials said securing ports and coastal areas remains a shared responsibility of governments and citizens alike, with this multi-island flag-hoisting effort forming a central part of the government’s coastal security strategy.
This initiative began last year following a directive from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hoist the national flag on uninhabited coastal islands as part of the Republic Day celebrations, reinforcing India’s sovereignty and maritime security.