Mantralaya Security Upgrade: State Approves RFID & Facial Recognition Worth INR 41.75 Cr

The Mantralaya is upgrading its security system with a project costing INR 41.75 crore. The new measures include flap barriers, RFID-enabled identity cards, and facial recognition technology. Public access will be regulated through designated time slots. The implementation will happen in three stages, beginning January 15. 

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that the changes will reduce unauthorised entry. He noted that Mantralaya has often been criticised for having middlemen. Some individuals visit daily without any clear purpose. He added that handling 70% of referrals at district and local levels will decrease foot traffic. Local systems will be improved to achieve this. 

The sixth and seventh floors house the chief minister’s and deputy chief minister’s offices. They will now have restricted access. Only authorised personnel will be allowed entry. Visitors will require pre-approval from nodal officers in the concerned departments. 

The entire building will have flap barriers at its gates. Facial recognition technology will be used for accessing inner areas. RFID-enabled identity cards will be issued to employees, visitors, and elected officials. According to a home department official, facial recognition data has already been collected from over 80% of Mantralaya’s 6,500 employees. 

The remaining data, including that of contractual staff, MLAs, MPs, and ministers, will be gathered later. 

The new system is expected to halve the daily foot traffic, which currently ranges from 2,500 to 3,000 on cabinet meeting days. Overcrowding at Mantralaya not only compromises security but also strains the infrastructure. Public access will be overseen by a dedicated department. Details about this arrangement will be finalised soon.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has also introduced changes to traditional customs. He instructed officers not to greet him with bouquets during district visits or meetings. 

The CM also ended the custom of a police procession during his district visits. This practice has been followed by every Maharashtra chief minister, including Fadnavis in his earlier term from 2014 to 2019.