The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) Raising Day is annually observed across India on 10th March to honour the contributions and sacrifices of the CISF personnel in providing security to public sector undertakings (PSUs), and critical infrastructure.
- 10 March 2024 marks the observance of the 55th CISF Raising Day.
Note: CISF, established in 1969, plays a pivotal role in safeguarding vital installations and assets in India.
History of CISF:
i.CISF is one of the specialised Central Para-military Forces of India established under an Act of Parliament, Central Industrial Security Force Act, 1968 (50 of 1968).
ii.On 13 August 1968, the CISF Bill was passed by Parliament which got the President’s approval on 2nd December 1968.
iii.The Central Industrial Security Force Act 1968 came into force on 10th March 1969. It operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA).
iv.CISF is the only force with a customised and dedicated fire wing, which looks after fire protection and fire prevention services.
Role of CISF:
i.Initially, the CISF charter was to provide protection and security to the property of PSUs.
ii.Over the years, its role has expanded to cover a wide array of sectors, including the Department of Space (DOS), airports, seaports, metro rail networks, nuclear installations, etc.
v.CISF through its elite and specialised Special Security Group (SSG) commandos, provides security to Very Important Persons (VIPs).
- SSG was raised in November 2006.
Broadening of Charter:
i.The charter of CISF has broadened to make its presence pan India, with a strategic focus on areas, affected by terrorism and Left Wing Extremism (LWE) in states of Jammu & Kashmir, Chattisgarh, Jharkhand, and the North Eastern Region (NER).
ii.The broadening of the charter of duties and responsibilities in the year 2009 has brought Private-sector establishments under the protective cover of CISF.
- The CISF Act was amended by Parliament to enable its deployment in the private sector.
Significance:
i.Serving as the Armed Force of the Union, the CISF has formed its identity through its distinctive features. It is the only Central Armed Police Force (CAPF):
- To secure India’s Critical Infrastructure;
- To have the largest Public Interface;
- To earn revenue for the Government of India (GoI), not a fiscal burden;
- To have the highest percentage of women workforce;
- To offer Security and Fire Consultancy services;
- To provide Fire services;
- To perform multifaceted roles in diverse sectors.
ii.CISF was established with 3129 personnel and over the years, it has expanded with a strength of about 1,77,075 personnel.
2024 Events:
i.CISF commemorates its 55th Raising Day on 12 March 2024, in the steel city of Bhilai, Chhattisgarh for the first time.
ii.Nityanand Rai, Minister of State, MoHA will grace the celebration as the chief guest.
iii.The event includes:
- A parade featuring a march past; and
- Captivating displays by the CISF’s security wing, Dog Squad, Fire wing, and the all-women squad exhibiting martial arts.
About Central Industrial Security Force (CISF):
Director-General (DG)- Nina Singh
Headquarters– New Delhi, Delhi
