Gujarat budget 2026-27: Security grid gets tech upgrade with drones, AI

Ahmedabad: The 2026-27 budget places technology at the centre of Gujarat's security strategy, outlining a series of measures that range from artificial intelligence-driven policing to anti-drone defence systems. The state has proposed setting up a data fusion centre and a centre of excellence (CoE) for AI in policing, alongside the purchase of four anti-drone systems, signalling a shift towards tech-enabled law enforcement.In the backdrop of the attack on India's borders during Operation Sindoor, the govt has proposed a dedicated anti-drone capability. A provision of Rs 20 crore has been made for the purchase of four anti-drone systems designed to detect and destroy rogue drones. Officials said the systems would not be limited to the border districts of Kutch and Banaskantha, but would also be deployed in response to suspicious activity or unauthorised drone use elsewhere in the state.
To strengthen intelligence and coordination, the budget proposes Rs 60 crore for the data fusion centre and the CoE for AI in policing. The initiative aims to bring together and analyse key police data sources on a single platform, enabling faster intelligence generation, sharper situational awareness and more coordinated responses across units and districts, said officials.Women's safety has also been flagged as a priority. The state govt said it will reinforce security arrangements through the 1091 Women Helpline, women police stations and an expanded CCTV network.Emergency response capacity is set to expand with the creation of 3,000 new posts under the DIAL 112 Janrakshak Project. In addition, Rs 9 crore has been allocated to procure 50 special operational vehicles to enhance patrolling in districts with inter-state and international borders, improving mobility, rapid deployment and sustained presence in vulnerable corridors.