Counter-drone training, airport security enhancement, and emergency response capabilities among key focus areas.
Chandigarh | 29 May 2026 — Director General, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Shri Praveer Ranjan , chaired an Operational Review Meeting at Chandigarh today to assess operational preparedness and security arrangements across the North Sector and Airport Sector of CISF.
Senior officers and unit commanders of various units participated in the meeting, where detailed discussions were held on strengthening security preparedness, enhancing response capabilities through better inter-agency co-ordination, and adoption of advanced technologies for protection of critical infrastructure and civil aviation installations.
Focus on Border Security and Drone Threats
The review assumes significance in view of evolving security challenges in border and strategically sensitive regions, particularly in Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Gujarat. During the meeting, emphasis was laid on strengthening preparedness against emerging threats, including drone-related challenges, anti-sabotage measures, and disaster response capabilities.
To counter low-altitude aerial threats effectively, the CISF has rolled out a phased Counter-Drone Training Programme for its personnel in close collaboration with the Indian Army. Conducted at multiple specialized locations, this program equips personnel with advanced capabilities to detect, track, and neutralize hostile Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAVs).
Joint Exercises and Resilience Initiatives:
The meeting also reviewed joint training initiatives being undertaken with the Indian Army and other agencies in the areas of counter-terrorism, quick reaction response, and disaster management. These include CI/CT Training, QRT Specialised Training, Battle Inoculation Training with the Army, and the Art of Living resilience programme for improved mental resilience and stress management among personnel in operational zones . CISF personnel have undergone specialized training programmes at various Army establishments and with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to strengthen tactical response and emergency handling capabilities.
Modernizing Civil Aviation Security:
In the aviation sector, the CISF reviewed the progression of key technological and operational upgrades across the commercial airports under its protection. Discussions centered on reinforcing perimeter security, upgrading surveillance networks, and adopting next-generation screening tools to maintain world-class aviation security standards. Key technologies actively deployed across airports include:
• Digi Yatra & Aadhaar Validation: Facilitates a seamless, paperless, biometrics-based passenger transit experience and robust identity verification checks.
• Full Body Scanners & CCTV Video Analytics: Enables advanced, non-intrusive passenger screening and automated real-time threat mapping and behavioural detection.
• Centralized Access Control & Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems (PIDS) : Regulates and monitors staff movement within critical terminal zones and securing the outer boundaries of sensitive airport installations against unauthorized breaches.
• Automated Tray Return Systems (ATRS) & Bomb Detection and Disposal Systems (BDDS): Enhances carry-on baggage screening efficiency and maintaining a high-readiness posture for explosive detection and neutralization.
Empowering Women Commandos and QRTs:
The CISF is running a dedicated drive to fortify its airport Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs). To date, 659 personnel from 49 Aviation Security Groups (ASGs) have successfully completed rigorous military-grade 'Battle Inoculation Training'. The force aims to cover QRT personnel across all 72 airports under its security umbrella by the end of 2026.
To establish specialized research and training in this domain, a proposal for the creation of a CISF Aviation Security Academy (CASA) is currently under consideration with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Furthermore, the 10th Reserve Battalion in Bengaluru has been designated as a dedicated Mahila QRT/Commandos Training Centre to train women personnel for critical, front-line security roles.
DG’s Vision:
Addressing the commanders, DG CISF Shri Praveer Ranjan commended the professionalism and unwavering commitment of the force's personnel. He emphasized that the combination of continuous physical training, inter-agency coordination, and rapid technology adoption is vital to address modern threat vectors. He also lauded the Soft Skills Training programs conducted in partnership with airline operators to improve passenger interface and service standards.
The Director General reiterated:
"CISF remains fully committed to ensuring the safety and security of the nation’s critical infrastructure and providing a secure environment for citizens through proactive, technology-driven, and responsive security measures."
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