10th March CISF Raising Day

10th March CISF Raising Day

Dr Arvind Kumar

10th March is observed every year as the raising day of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). It was on this day in 1969 that the CISF came into existence with a modest beginning, having three battalions, to provide integrated security cover to the Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs). Within a short span of past 42 years, the CISF has grown several folds. With globalization and liberalization of the economy, CISF is no longer a PSU-centric organization. Instead, it has become a premier multi-skilled security agency of the country, mandated to provide security to major critical infrastructure installations of the country in diverse areas. CISF is currently providing security cover to nuclear installations, space establishments, airports, seaports, power plants, sensitive Government buildings and ever heritage monuments. The significant responsibilities currently shouldered by the CISF inter alia include: the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, VIP Security, Disaster Management and establishment of a Formed Police Unit (FPU) of the UN at Haiti.

The level of professional competence and standing acquired by the Force over the decades has made it ‘unrivaled force’ in its field. Private sector is keen to seek its consultancy services. The CISF has reportedly provided Consultancy Services to more than 65 different organizations, including those in the private sector. After the Mumbai terrorist attack on November 2008, the mandate of the force has been broadened to provide direct security cover to private sector also. In view of the prevailing security environment in the country and threat from trans-national terrorism, the Force continuously strives towards technological modernization and skills upgradation to build an edifice of dedicated service to the Nation.