New Delhi: The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has taken a groundbreaking step, establishing its first-ever all-women reserve battalion, a significant milestone for the force and a reflection of evolving security needs. The newly sanctioned unit, comprising over 1,000 personnel, will be deployed at airports and other critical locations across India.
The Union Home Ministry formally sanctioned the order apparently to promote gender inclusivity in the force.
#NariShaktiKaVandan#सशक्त_नारी_सशक्त_देश#WomenInUniform
In a landmark decision, MHA has approved CISF’s 1st ever all-women battalion promoting gender equality. It will encourage aspiring women to join CISF’s mission to safeguard national strategic assets.@PMOIndia @HMOIndia pic.twitter.com/DPq1Xy7HvV— CISF (@CISFHQrs) November 12, 2024
The battalion with a strength of 1,025 personnel, led by a senior commandant, will be raised from the CISF’s existing sanctioned strength of two lakh personnel. Recruitment and specialised training are already underway at the force’s headquarters in New Delhi, equipping the women officers with the necessary skills for a range of duties, including VIP security, airport security, and Delhi Metro Rail operations.
The force, established in 1969, already has a considerable number of women officers stationed at 68 civil airports, the Delhi Metro, and historical sites like the Taj Mahal and Red Fort.
The creation of the all-women reserve battalion is considered a timely response to the increasing security demands at airports and other key infrastructure sites. The CISF’s role extends beyond these locations, providing counter-terrorist security for critical installations in nuclear and aerospace sectors, major private sector facilities, and numerous other sensitive locations across the country.
