Roadmap for Answer Writing
To effectively answer the question, follow these steps:
1. Introduction
- Briefly introduce the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), its origin, and initial purpose.
- Mention its establishment year (1969) and primary mandate (securing Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and government installations).
Key Fact:
- CISF was established in 1969 under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to secure PSUs and government facilities (Source: CISF official records).
2. Expansion of Scale
- Highlight how the CISF grew in terms of personnel and operational areas.
- Mention specific numbers and examples of areas it secures today.
Key Facts:
- Personnel Strength: From ~3,000 personnel in 1969 to 1.77 lakh today (Source: MHA reports).
- Operational Areas: Security responsibilities now include airports, seaports, Delhi Metro, heritage sites (e.g., Taj Mahal, Red Fort) (Source: CISF annual review).
3. Diversification of Capabilities
- Discuss the broader roles CISF has taken on, beyond industrial security.
- Focus on disaster response, fire services, private sector security, and VIP protection.
Key Facts:
- Disaster Response: Involved in search and rescue during disasters (Source: NDMA collaboration reports).
- Private Sector Security: Amended CISF Act allows it to secure private installations (Source: Government Gazette, CISF Act amendment).
- Fire Services: Operates a specialized Fire Wing for fire protection and prevention (Source: CISF technical brief).
- VIP Security: Added VIP security to relieve CRPF, ITBP, and NSG from similar duties (Source: Parliamentary Committee Report, 2018).
4. Emphasis on Inclusivity
- Highlight the significant representation of women in CISF, making it a progressive force.
Key Fact:
- CISF has the highest percentage of women in any Central Armed Police Force (Source: MHA statistics).
5. Leadership and Modernization
- Mention leadership milestones and modernization efforts.
- Reference its new responsibility of securing the Indian Parliament.
Key Facts:
- Leadership: Special DG Nina Singh is the first woman to head the CISF (Source: Official MHA announcement, 2024).
- Parliament Security: Recently took over the Parliament’s security from the Delhi Police (Source: Press Information Bureau).
6. Conclusion
- Summarize how CISF has evolved from a niche industrial security force to a versatile, multi-faceted security organization.
- Reflect on its adaptability to India’s dynamic security challenges.
Relevant Facts at a Glance
- Founding Year: 1969 under MHA.
- Initial Strength: 3,000 personnel; Current Strength: 1.77 lakh.
- Roles: Secures airports, seaports, Delhi Metro, and heritage sites (e.g., Taj Mahal, Red Fort).
- Diversified Functions: Disaster response, private sector security, VIP protection, and consultancy.
- Inclusivity: Highest percentage of women in a CAPF; first woman Special DG, Nina Singh.
- Parliament Security: Took charge of the Parliament in 2024.
Model Answer
Origins and Initial Role
Established in 1969 under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the CISF was initially tasked with securing Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and government installations. It began with a modest strength of around 3,000 personnel.
Expansion in Scale and Strength
Over the years, the CISF expanded its operations significantly:
Diversification of Roles
The CISF’s responsibilities have broadened to include:
Modern Initiatives
Recent Developments
The CISF was recently tasked with securing the Indian Parliament, showcasing its increasing relevance in critical national security.
Conclusion
From industrial security to safeguarding national heritage, critical infrastructure, and individuals, the CISF has emerged as a multi-dimensional security force. Its ability to adapt to India’s evolving security landscape underscores its role as a cornerstone of internal security