MHA Approves First All-Woman CISF Battalion

13 Nov 2024

MHA Approves First All-Woman CISF Battalion

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has sanctioned the creation of the first-ever all-woman battalion for the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

  • CISF proposed an all-woman battalion in early 2023 following Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s direction at the force’s 53rd Raising Day in March.

About All Women CISF Battalion

  • Structure: The new battalion will consist of over 1,000 personnel and will be led by a senior commandant-rank officer.
    • The battalion will join the existing 12 reserve battalions within CISF, which currently include both male and female personnel.
  • Purpose and Duties of the All-Woman Battalion: This exclusive unit is intended to address the increasing responsibilities of CISF in protecting VIPs, airports, Delhi Metro, and other critical installations.
    • The all-woman battalion will be trained to perform diverse roles, including VIP security and security at various high-risk facilities
  • Formation and Structure of the Battalion: The unit will be established within the already sanctioned manpower of CISF, which totals around two lakh personnel.
  • Training and Recruitment:  Special training programs are being developed to equip the battalion with elite skills for a wide range of security functions.
    • Preparations are underway to recruit, train, and determine the stationing location for the new battalion.

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Notable Women In Indian Army

  • Historic Command Roles: Commander Prerna Deosthalee became the first woman to command an Indian Naval warship, marking a breakthrough in leadership positions for women in the Navy.
  • Combat Participation: Five women officers, including Lt. Mehak Saini and Lt. Aditi Yadav, joined the Army’s artillery units, highlighting expanded combat roles for women.
  • Global Military Exercises: Squadron Leader Avani Chaturvedi was the first woman fighter pilot from India to participate in an international aerial wargame in Japan, boosting India’s global defence representation.
  • Frontline Leadership: Group Captain Shaliza Dhami became the first woman to lead a frontline IAF combat unit, setting a precedent for women in strategic command roles.
  • Gallantry Recognition: Wing Commander Deepika Mishra received the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry), the first for a female IAF officer, recognizing her valour in flood relief missions.

Encouragement for Women Aspirants

  • The establishment of a Mahila battalion is expected to encourage more young women across the country to join CISF.
  • It will create a new identity for women in the force, enhancing the appeal of CISF as a career choice for women.
  • Women make up more than 7% of CISF personnel and are already deployed at high-profile sites, including 68 civil airports, the Delhi Metro, and heritage sites like the Taj Mahal and Red Fort.

About CISF

  • CISF is an armed force of the Union established under an Act of Parliament, “Central Industrial Security Force Act, 1968 ”.
    • The strength of the force, established with the help of 3129 personnel in 1969, was increased to 1,77,713 in 2024
  • Headquarters and Governance: Headquarters is located in New Delhi and works directly under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
  • Organisational Structure: Led by a Director-General (IPS officer) and assisted by an Additional Director-General (IPS officer).
  • Divided into seven sectors: Airport, North, North-East, East, West, South, and Training.
    • Includes a specialised Fire Service Wing making it the only Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) with a dedicated fire wing.

Functions and Responsibilities of CISF

  • Critical Infrastructure Protection:CISF provides counter-terrorism security for critical infrastructure, including nuclear and aerospace facilities.
  • Airport Security: Responsible for airport security since 2000, post the IC-814 hijacking incident.
  • Heritage and Public Spaces: Protects iconic monuments, the Delhi Metro, Parliament House Complex, and Central Jails in Jammu and Kashmir.
  • VIP Security: Provides security to high-profile individuals.
  • Expanded Mandate (Post-2008): Following the Mumbai terror attacks, the mandate broadened to include private corporate security and consultancy services.
  • Consultancy Services: Provides security consultancy to private sector entities such as Infosys Offices and Reliance Refinery.

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Woman in combat role

Pros Cons
Increased Diversity of Perspective Potential Physiological Disadvantage
Enhanced Unit Cohesion Potential Impact on Unit Morale and Dynamics
Larger Talent Pool Logistical Challenges
Improved Public Perception Concerns about Sexual Assault and Harassment
Increased Gender Equality Potential for Lowered Standards

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