The Indian government has committed ₹136 crore towards bolstering the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) with new infrastructure and advanced training initiatives. These projects are designed to significantly enhance the force's operational readiness, expand its training capacity, and equip it to effectively address emerging security challenges, as reported by ANI.
Key Infrastructure Projects Unveiled
Among the significant projects is the laying of the foundation stone for a state-of-the-art CISF Headquarters building in New Delhi. This nine-storey facility, constructed by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) at an estimated cost of ₹75.78 crore, will serve as the administrative and strategic hub for the force. It will house the Director General's offices, various departmental branches, a control room, conference facilities, an auditorium, library, and a gymnasium.
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar officiated the ceremony. He also inaugurated three other completed infrastructure projects:
- The Subordinate Officers’ Mess (Aditya) at the National Industrial Security Academy (NISA), Hyderabad, built for ₹34.22 crore.
- The Advanced Training Building (Abhyas) also at NISA, Hyderabad, costing ₹20.53 crore.
- Subordinate Officers’ Quarters at the 4th Reserve Battalion in Amravatipuram, Sivagangai, Tamil Nadu, developed at ₹5.50 crore.
Preparing for Evolving Threats
CISF Director General Praveer Ranjan emphasized the dynamic nature of security threats, highlighting the growing prevalence of cyber-attacks, digital sabotage, and drone-related risks. He noted that the Ministry of Home Affairs has entrusted the CISF with several new responsibilities, including its designation as a Recognised Security Organisation (RSO) under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, enabling it to conduct security audits for major ports.
To counter these modern challenges, significant focus is being placed on technology-driven solutions:
- Drone and Anti-Drone Technology: The Recruit Training Centre (RTC) Behror in Rajasthan is being developed into a center of excellence for drone and anti-drone technology. The CISF has also been designated as the nodal agency for safeguarding critical infrastructure against rogue drone threats.
- Cyber Security: Specialized cyber security teams are undergoing advanced training in collaboration with leading institutions such as IIT Madras Pravartak, National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) Gandhinagar, and C-DAC.
Additionally, the Ministry of Home Affairs has approved the establishment of the first all-women CISF Reserve Battalion in Nuh, Haryana, comprising 1,024 personnel, marking a significant step towards empowering women within the force.
Commitment to Personnel Welfare
During the event, the government reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel and their families. Financial assistance of ₹1 crore under the Personal Accident Insurance Scheme was provided to the families of deceased CISF personnel. Customised motorized wheelchairs were also distributed to differently-abled dependent children of force personnel through a joint initiative.