Coastal Security and CISF's Role
The Indian government is taking significant steps to enhance coastal security by appointing the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) as the security regulator for over 250 seaports across the country. This decision is aimed at establishing a unified security architecture for seaports, especially those handling cargo.
Key Actions and Developments
- The CISF will regulate at least 80 seaports that manage the export and import of goods, focusing on access control, cargo screening, and seafront patrolling.
- Currently, the CISF provides security to all 13 major seaports across various states, including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and West Bengal, among others.
- The current security arrangements at many seaports are managed by private agencies and local police, lacking a uniform security template.
Security Strategy and Implementation
- The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued guidelines for seaport security following the National Security Strategy Conference in 2023.
- The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways designated CISF as the Recognised Security Organisation (RSO) under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
- The CISF is estimated to require around 800-1,000 personnel per seaport, requesting an additional 10,000 personnel for deployment at 80 seaports.
Challenges and Future Plans
- Coastal areas are open and currently lack a robust security architecture.
- No sovereign entity presently secures private seaports, highlighting a significant gap in security.
Hybrid Security Model
- The Joint Committee of CISF and Director General Shipping conducted a comprehensive study, making recommendations for remedial measures.
- A hybrid security model will be implemented where core security functions at all EXIM ports will be managed by the CISF, while non-core duties may involve State Police or Private Security Agencies (PSAs).
- This layered approach aims to enhance accountability, efficiency, and security uniformity in line with the MHA's guidelines issued in July 2023.
- The CISF will also provide mandatory training for private security personnel to ensure a standardized approach.
