Why is it in the news?
India marked the Raising Day of the Central Industrial Security Force on March 10.
The occasion highlights the role of CISF in protecting critical infrastructure across the country.
Category: Defence
Important Points:
● CISF is a Central Armed Police Force functioning under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
● It provides security to about 70 airports and more than 361 critical national installations.
● The force was established in 1969 under the CISF Act of 1968.
● Initially it was created to provide security to sensitive public sector undertakings.
● The CISF Act was amended in 1983 declaring it an Armed Force of the Union.
● The present strength of the force is more than 188,000 personnel.
● It is headed by a Director-General from the Indian Police Service.
● CISF protects critical infrastructure including nuclear plants, space establishments, seaports and power plants.
● It also provides security for the Delhi Metro, Parliament complex and important heritage monuments.
● CISF is the only CAPF with a dedicated fire wing and a compensatory cost security model.