LUCKNOW, Feb. 12 -- Continuing its emphasis on law and order since 2017, the Yogi Adityanath government has earmarked over Rs.3,378 crore in the latest budget to strengthen police and fire services infrastructure. The renewed push comes as UP moves towards the 2027 assembly elections, with the administration underlining both its enforcement record and fresh capital investments in security systems. Since March 2017, as many as 271 criminals have been gunned down in police encounters across the state, according to official data - a figure the government cites as evidence of its crackdown on organised crime. The latest financial outlay, officials say, is aimed at consolidating infrastructure and expanding institutional capacity. The budget signals a structured effort to upgrade facilities, improve personnel welfare and deepen administrative presence across districts. Approximately Rs.1,374 crore has been allocated for the construction of non-residential police buildings, including new police stations and departmental offices. An additional Rs.1,243 crore has been set aside for residential accommodation for police personnel to address housing shortages and improve working conditions. In newly created districts, Rs.346 crore has been earmarked for both residential and non-residential police infrastructure to enhance local administrative reach and strengthen response mechanisms. Under Mission Shakti, Rs.25 crore has been provided for procuring vehicles for women beat personnel to improve mobility and reinforce women-focused policing initiatives at the grassroots level. The fire services department will receive Rs.200 crore for constructing residential and non-residential fire stations. Another Rs.190 crore has been allocated to upgrade firefighting systems in multi-storey buildings and operationalise newly built centres. Alongside the infrastructure thrust, the government reiterated its claim of improved crime control. As per figures cited in the budget documents, incidents of dacoity have declined by 89%, loot by 85%, murder by 47%, rioting by 70%, and kidnapping for ransom by 62%. Reported crimes against women have also shown a decline, including murder (48%), dowry death (19%), rape (67%) and outraging modesty (34%). Offences related to atrocities against people belonging to SC/ST have also reduced, with cases of murder falling by 43%, arson by 94%, rape by 32% and grievous hurt by 10%, according to official statistics.The government maintains that continued investment in infrastructure and policing systems is essential to sustain these trends and address emerging law enforcement challenges. HTC...