Vinaytosh Mishra, Director General of the Crime Branch-CID, has taken additional charge as the Head of Police Force (HoPF) of Odisha, following the retirement of YB Khurania.
Mishra assumed the responsibility on Sunday at the State Police Headquarters in Cuttack. He was accorded a guard of honour and paid floral tributes at the Martyrs’ Memorial.
Women’s Safety and Crime Control Among Priorities
After taking charge, Mishra described the assignment as a significant responsibility and said he would carry it out with dedication.
He identified women’s safety, combating organised crime, making Odisha drug-free and controlling cyber offences as key priorities for the state police in the coming months.
Around 60,000 Personnel to Be Deployed During Festive Season
With the festive season approaching, Mishra said around 60,000 police personnel would be deployed across Odisha.
The police will coordinate with district administrations to maintain peace, law and order and security across the state during the upcoming celebrations.
Police Responding to Flood Situation
Mishra also spoke about the flood situation in several districts of Odisha.
He said police personnel have been directed to coordinate with the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) and district administrations to provide assistance to affected people and protect life and property.
The police force will continue to support local authorities in managing the situation and responding to emergency requirements.
Mishra to Retire in November
Mishra is a 1993-batch officer and is scheduled to retire on November 30, 2026.
He was not considered for appointment as the regular DGP as he did not meet the requirement of having at least six months of residual service at the time of empanelment.
His current assignment as interim HoPF will therefore provide administrative continuity following the retirement of YB Khurania.
Focus on Law and Order
With his additional charge, Vinaytosh Mishra will oversee the state police force during an important period marked by the festive season, flood-related challenges and continued focus on organised crime, cybercrime and drug-related offences.
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The Odisha Police will work in coordination with district administrations and other response agencies to maintain security and support citizens across the state.