CISF to Recruit 2,400 Women, Launch All-Women Commando Unit in 2024

Quick Summary

• The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) plans to induct 2,400 women personnel in 2026 to achieve a 10% representation of women in its workforce.
• Currently, there are 12,491 women in the CISF ranks, with recruitment structured to maintain their consistent representation.
• CISF is training the first-ever all-women commando team for deployment at critical infrastructure such as airports and other vital installations.
• Training is taking place at CISF’s Regional Training Center (RTC) in Barwaha, Madhya Pradesh through an eight-week advanced commando course for roles like Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) and Special Task Forces (STFs).
• The rigorous training module includes physical fitness drills, weapons handling under stress scenarios, endurance-building exercises like obstacle courses and forest survival training, among others.
• A confidence-building program involves intensive decision-making and teamwork tests over adverse conditions during a continuous 48-hour exercise.
• Initially deployed across airports as Aviation Security Groups personnel, the first batch of 30 women commandos is undergoing training; further batches will follow starting October.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The CISF’s initiative to induct more women into its ranks represents a meaningful move toward gender balance within India’s armed security forces. Achieving a mandatory 10% representation signals institutional commitment to inclusivity while bringing diverse perspectives into vital national operations. The formation of the all-women commando unit further underscores an evolving mindset about women’s capabilities beyond conventional security roles.

rigorous planning through specialized commando-level drills reflects efforts to ensure these personnel not only meet but exceed operational benchmarks typically associated with elite forces. Deploying these trained professionals at high-security establishments points towards India’s increased focus on bolstering defenses without compromising adaptability or equality within teams.

Successful integration hinges on sustained support for recruitment reforms and ensuring adequate career prospects for incoming commandos.This initiative can serve as a blueprint for broader reforms across other paramilitary organizations seeking gender inclusivity while maintaining operational excellence.Read more: The Hindu