Why in the News?

The Ministry of Home Affairs has approved the formation of India's first all-women battalion within the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). This decision follows Home Minister Amit Shah's announcement during the 53^rd CISF Day celebrations, aiming to enhance women’s representation in national security roles and provide more opportunities for women in the armed forces. The battalion's establishment will contribute to gender equality in national security.

About CISF

• It is Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) in India.
• It was set up under an Act of the Parliament of India on 10^th March 1969 with a
• strength of 2,800.
• It was subsequently made an armed force of the Republic of India by another Act of Parliament passed on 15^th June 1983.
• The force has since grown into a premier multi-skilled organization with a present strength of more than 1,88,000 personnel.
• It is directly under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, and its headquarters are in New Delhi.
• The CISF at present provides security cover to 359 establishments across the country.
• Organisation Structure:
  • It is headed by an Indian Police Service officer with the rank of Director-General, assisted by an IPS officer in the rank of Add. Director-General.
  • The force is divided into seven sectors (Airport, North, North-East, East, West, South, and Training).
  • The force also has a Fire Service Wing.