Jaipur, April 17 -- Chief minister Bhajan Lal Sharma said on Thursday that the crime rate in Rajasthan has declined by 18.77% over the past two years. The reduction includes a 25.68% drop in murder cases, 47.26% in dacoity, 50.75% in robbery, and nearly 10% decline in crimes against women, the chief minister said while addressing the state-level ceremony at the Rajasthan Police Academy on the occasion of the 77th Raising Day of Rajasthan Police. Sharma credited the police force for maintaining a safe and fear-free environment. He said the police have been working with dedication, discipline, and a spirit of public service, acting as a protective shield for citizens in all circumstances. Sharma emphasized that effective policing has strengthened public confidence and positioned Rajasthan as a peaceful state, attracting investors and tourists, thereby boosting the economy. He underlined that community policing will play a key role in tackling emerging challenges such as cybercrime, drug abuse, and organised crime, stressing that active public participation is essential. Highlighting governance reforms, Sharma said Rajasthan is among the leading states in implementing new criminal laws. The visible decline in crime, he said, is a direct result of the government's firm stance on law enforcement. The chief minister spoke on measures taken to curb crime. An Anti-Narcotics Task Force has been formed, along with one police station and 17 police outposts to tackle drug-related offences, he said. A special investigation team has been constituted against exam paper leak rackets, resulting in zero reported leaks and improved trust, he said. An Anti-Gangster Task Force is also functioning effectively to curb organised crime, leading to a reduction in the use of firearms and related fatalities, he said. To control cybercrime, cyber help desks have been established at all police stations to assist, he said. Appointment letters have been issued to over 8,000 constables, he said, adding that two Additional Superintendent of Police offices, two Deputy Superintendent of Police offices, and 23 new police stations have been created. Eight police outposts have been upgraded into police stations. Around 1,000 police mobile units have been deployed and 35 new outposts opened, he said. Sharma said five barracks will be constructed in each police training institute, each with a capacity of 100 personnel. An additional provision of Rs.5 crore will be made for police sports, welfare, and festival funds. In the first phase, 500 housing units will be constructed for police personnel across various categories, he said....