India’s First All-Women Battalion in CISF Approved by Union Government

In a historic move, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has approved the formation of the first all-women battalion within the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), a decision that is set to empower women in the country's security forces. This battalion will consist of over 1,000 female personnel and is expected to play a crucial role in the growing demands of VIP security, airport protection, and other critical installations.

Formation of the All-Women Battalion

The approval for the creation of the all-women battalion was granted on Monday, with the unit set to be led by a senior officer holding the rank of commandant. The decision follows a directive from Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the CISF's 53rd Raising Day celebrations in March 2023, which emphasized the need for an all-women reserve battalion. The new battalion will be part of the CISF's existing force of around 2,00,000 personnel.

Role and Structure of the New Unit

The all-women battalion is designated as a "reserve battalion" and will focus on high-security tasks such as protecting VIPs, guarding airports, and safeguarding other key installations. This new unit will serve as a vital part of the CISF’s broader efforts to ensure the safety and security of sensitive locations, such as the Delhi Metro, 68 civil airports, and monuments like the Taj Mahal and Red Fort. Currently, female personnel make up more than 7% of the CISF’s total strength.

Training and Recruitment Plans

Preparations are underway for the recruitment, training, and stationing of the new all-women battalion. The training will be customized to develop an elite force capable of handling high-level security tasks. Female recruits will undergo specialized training to ensure they are equipped to perform their duties at critical security sites. This includes the protection of important national infrastructure and counter-terrorism operations.

Significance of the All-Women Battalion

The formation of the battalion marks a significant step in integrating more women into the security apparatus, aligning with the government's broader efforts to empower women across various sectors. The CISF’s 12 existing reserve battalions, which consist of both male and female personnel, primarily serve as reinforcement units for major national tasks, such as elections and safeguarding installations like the Parliament House complex. The addition of an all-women battalion is expected to inspire more women to join the CISF and actively contribute to the country’s security.

Role of Women in the CISF

Women in the CISF already play a vital role in the security and protection of high-profile facilities. They are stationed at locations such as the Delhi Metro, airports, and historic monuments. The new all-women battalion is expected to bolster the presence of female personnel across critical sectors and demonstrate the strength and capability of women in security operations. The push for this initiative is not only about strengthening security but also about creating an environment that encourages gender equality within the security forces.

Celebrating CISF’s Legacy and Future Plans

Established in 1969, the CISF has long been tasked with safeguarding critical infrastructure, including nuclear and aerospace facilities. With this latest move, the CISF aims to expand its influence and engage more women in its operations. The formation of the all-women battalion will also showcase the growing role of women in India's national security. The battalion’s strength and capabilities will be highlighted during the CISF’s 55th Foundation Day celebrations in March 2025, when it is expected to demonstrate its skills in front of the Union Home Minister.

Empowering Women in Security

The creation of the all-women battalion in the CISF represents a significant milestone in the journey towards gender inclusivity in the country’s security forces. It serves as a beacon of inspiration for young women who aspire to join the forces, offering a unique identity within the system. As the battalion prepares for deployment, the CISF looks forward to strengthening its workforce and setting a precedent for future generations of women in security.