The scheme for modernisation of police forces in Union Territories, including Delhi, was today extended for two years till 2012-13 and Rs 458.45 crore earmarked for the extended period.

The scheme, launched for UTs in 2006 with a provision of Rs 884 crore for five years till 2010-11, was given extension by the Union Cabinet which met here under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

Out of Rs 884 crore, Rs 413.09 crore has already been released till February 26 and Rs 176.80 crore is likely to be made available to the UTs during the financial year 2010-11, official spokesperson said after the Cabinet meeting.

An amount of Rs 281.65 crore is likely to be made available at the end of 2010-11 which will be pooled and distributed among the UTs on pro-rata basis during the next two financial years.

The scheme, which has been improvised by making it more flexible, would help the UTs to utilise these funds for making their forces efficient and effective.

The scheme entails procurement of latest weaponry and other gadgets like communication equipment and bullet-proof jackets to equip the forces to meet the challenges from terrorism.

Some other items covered under the scheme are purchase of mine-proof vehicles, bomb detection and disposal equipment, improving forensic science labs and investigation aids.

With the menace of terrorism and naxalism spreading its wings across the country, home minister P Chidambaram recently said that Centre would extend all help to states and UTs in modernisation of their police forces.

Speaking in Parliament, he specifically referred to the police modernisation scheme under which the states are given monetary support to raise anti-terrorist force.

Some six states have raised anti-terrorist force while others have Quick Response Teams, he said. "We are encouraging all states to have full fledged anti-terrorist force."

He said the Centre was procuring advanced weapons for the police forces and if states and UTs wanted to "piggy back" on it, they could give their requirements.

"I think things are improving. Capacity is being added.

Police forces are becoming more efficient but it will take time to have a more strong anti-terrorist capacity in this country," he said.