Central government sanctions two new battalions for CISF

NEW DELHI: The home ministry has approved raising of two more battalions of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) comprising 2,050 personnel. The additional strength is not only expected to meet the increasing demands on CISF to create a pool of trained personnel for immediate induction in internal security duties but also improve the force’s rapid response capabilities during emergencies.
CISF in a statement on Monday said the go-ahead from the ministry of home affairs (MHA) for adding two battalions to the force — each comprising 1,025 personnel of various ranks, led by a senior commandant-level officer — coupled with recent approval accorded to the mahila battalion, will augment the force’s capacity, strengthen national security and create new employment opportunities for over 2000 persons.
With the two battalions, CISF’s strength will now touch 2 lakh personnel and go up to 15 battalions from the current 13.
The new battalions, a CISF spokesperson said, will be vital in catering to the increasing demands on the CISF by creating a pool of trained personnel to fulfill immediate induction requirements relating to internal security. The reserve battalions consist of personnel specifically trained and equipped with experience to handle security of high security jails and other undertakings.
The additional battalions will significantly improve the CISF’s quick response capabilities during emergencies. The availability of dedicated reserve units, well equipped with a transport fleet as well as sufficient weapons means faster deployment and more effective management of critical situations, further enhancing public safety and security, said CISF.
The raised strength will reduce stress on existing CISF personnel and translate into improved leave and weekly relief opportunities for them.