India, Sept. 20 -- Rajasthan chief minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Friday said that the state has witnessed a sharp decline in crime, with overall incidents dropping by 19.45% since 2023. He added that cases of crimes against Scheduled Castes have come down by 17.8%, those against Scheduled Tribes by 18.77%, and crimes against women by 9.24%. Sharma was addressing the convocation parade of the 55th batch of Rajasthan Police Service probationers at the Rajasthan Police Academy in Jaipur. Congratulating the 76 probationers, including 20 women officers, the chief minister said their achievement was the result of "hard work, dedication, and perseverance." Highlighting the importance of training, Sharma said it not only strengthens legal knowledge but also builds communication, teamwork, and cooperation within the force. "Such fundamental training shapes the character and personality of police personnel, making them ideal officers," he said. He also announced the construction of a new training building at the Police Academy to enhance facilities for tackling cybercrime, financial fraud, and other modern challenges. On women's growing role in policing, Sharma said it was a matter of pride that 20 women officers were part of the passing-out batch. He noted that women officers inspire trust and confidence, with women in society more willing to share their problems with them. "They are not only an integral part of the force but also role models for other women," he added. The chief minister emphasized the need for the police to stay alert and updated in the face of changing crime patterns, including organized crime, cybercrime, and digital threats. Along with traditional policing, technical proficiency, cyber security awareness, and digital forensics have become crucial, he said. Sharma stressed that honesty is the police's most powerful weapon and urged officers to work patiently and calmly, free from external pressure. "Policing is teamwork. When we work together with trust and brotherhood, our strength multiplies, and every challenge becomes easier to overcome," he remarked. Reiterating his government's commitment to law and order, Sharma said, "Maintaining peace and controlling crime is our top priority, and we are determined to further strengthen this system." Director general of police Rajeev Kumar Sharma echoed the CM's views, stating that under the chief minister's leadership, Rajasthan Police is committed to upholding law and justice. He said that constant technological innovation, faster investigations, and skill upgrades are being implemented to meet emerging challenges. On the occasion, the chief minister awarded outstanding trainees of the 55th batch and participated in a group photograph. Before his address, Sharma inspected the convocation parade and took the salute. The event was attended by Minister of State for Home Jawahar Singh Bedham, MP Manju Sharma, MLA Gopal Sharma, chief secretary Sudhansh Pant, RPA Director S. Sengathir, and several senior police officials....