CISF reviews security prep in North, airport sectors

Chandigarh: CISF director general Praveer Ranjan Friday reviewed operational preparedness and security arrangements across the force’s North and Airport sectors during a high-level meeting in Chandigarh.

Senior officers and unit commanders from various CISF formations participated, with discussions focusing on strengthening security preparedness, enhancing response capabilities through better inter-agency coordination, and expanding the use of advanced technologies to safeguard critical infrastructure and civil aviation installations.

According to an official statement, the review assumes significance amid evolving security challenges in strategically sensitive and border states, including Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Haryana and Gujarat.

Special emphasis was laid on preparedness against emerging threats such as drone intrusions, sabotage attempts and disaster situations. To counter low-altitude aerial threats, CISF has launched a phased counter-drone training programme in coordination with the Indian Army, aimed at equipping personnel to detect, track and neutralise hostile unmanned aerial systems.

The review also covered joint training initiatives with the Army and other agencies in areas such as counter-terrorism operations, quick response and disaster management. These include counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism training, specialised quick reaction team drills, battle inoculation exercises and resilience programmes focusing on stress management and mental preparedness.

Officials said CISF personnel have also undergone specialised training at Army establishments and with the National Disaster Response Force to strengthen tactical response and emergency handling.

The force is undertaking a dedicated drive to strengthen airport quick reaction teams, with 659 personnel from 49 aviation security groups having completed battle inoculation training so far. The training is planned to cover personnel across all 72 CISF-protected airports by the end of 2026.

In the aviation sector, the CISF reviewed implementation of key technological upgrades, including enhanced perimeter security, modern surveillance systems and next-generation screening technologies.

Among the systems deployed are Digi Yatra and Aadhaar-based validation for biometric passenger movement, full-body scanners, CCTV video analytics, centralised access control systems and perimeter intrusion detection systems. Automated tray return systems and bomb detection and disposal systems are also being used to improve screening efficiency and strengthen security preparedness.

Addressing commanders, Ranjan commended the professionalism of personnel and stressed the need for continuous physical training, stronger coordination and rapid adoption of modern technologies to tackle evolving threats. He also appreciated soft skills training programmes conducted with airlines to improve passenger interface at airports.

Reiterating the force’s commitment, he said CISF remains dedicated to securing critical infrastructure and ensuring a safe environment through proactive and technology-driven measures.