Is CISF Preparing for Terror Threats with Army Training After Operation Sindoor?

New Delhi, July 18 (NationPress) Following the launch of Operation Sindoor by the Indian Armed Forces in response to the deadly Pahalgam terror attack attributed to Pakistan on April 22, it has been reported that the Central Industrial Security Forces (CISF) are undergoing training alongside the Indian Army to bolster their readiness against potential terrorist threats.

A senior official, who requested anonymity, informed IANS, "In light of the recent developments post-Operation Sindoor, numerous discussions have taken place between the Union Home Ministry and CISF officials. Given the current climate, it's essential for CISF personnel to undergo training comparable to that of the Indian Army to ensure they can provide a prompt response in case of an attack."

Last year, the CISF assumed responsibility for security at Parliament after a security breach in December 2023 led to a significant outcry, replacing the Delhi Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

While a limited number of CISF personnel have previously received training at Indian Army facilities in Chennai, Karnataka, and Bhopal, this marks the first instance of them training in collaboration with the Army in Jammu and Kashmir.

Currently, 120 CISF personnel, identified as Quick Response Team commandos, are undergoing training under the guidance of the Northern Command's battalion. The primary goal of this initiative is to enhance the capabilities of CISF commandos to effectively respond to threats, including terrorist attacks, drone incursions, and internal sabotage, as stated by the official.

IANS has reported that two batches of QRT commandos have completed their training, with a third batch of 60 personnel scheduled to commence soon.

Participating in training sessions with the Indian Army in Jammu and Kashmir will equip CISF members with advanced combat tactics suitable for both urban and jungle environments, combined with modern technological strategies, including drone warfare.

This training initiative aims to prepare CISF personnel to act swiftly in emergencies at critical locations such as airports, nuclear facilities, government buildings, and Parliament, as highlighted by the official.

During Operation Sindoor, 15 companies were deployed to Jammu and Kashmir and later reassigned to the Amarnath Yatra route following the ceasefire, according to IANS.

Moreover, the CISF, which primarily utilizes INSAS rifles, AK-47s, sniper rifles, and other gear, is expected to receive the AK-203 in the future. Although the initial recipients will be the Indian Army, followed by the CRPF, discussions are already underway for the CISF to acquire the AK-203 after the Army and CRPF.

At present, the CISF provides security to key establishments, including the Department of Space, the Department of Atomic Energy, airports, Delhi Metro, historical sites, and critical sectors connected to the Indian economy such as petroleum, natural gas, electricity, coal, steel, and mining.

Additionally, they are tasked with ensuring the safety of protected individuals classified under security categories Z Plus, Z, X, and Y.