CISF remains committed to ensuring safe and secure aviation operations through constant vigilance, alertness and coordinated action.

By M S Nazki

It’s not just about reacting to an attack. It’s about being ready before one happens!

-The line we got to write read, high-Intensity Joint Counter-Terrorist Mock Exercise Conducted at ASG Delhi!

The first thought said that whether we do it or not, after all it was a mock drill!

-Then on second thought mock drills… help people stay informed and safe!

-And it was here we began writing the story!

-As my habit is, I always have a story to start with! This one is of animals:

-The 26/11 Heroes (Max, Tiger, Sultan, Caesar): These four dogs were instrumental in the 26/11 attacks, sniffing out RDX, hand grenades, and detonators, preventing further casualties at the Taj Hotel and CSMT railway station. They were given a state funeral and remained inseparable even after retirement.

-Zanjeer (1993 Mumbai Blasts): Zanjeer was the best bomb detector, credited with detecting over 3,329 kg of RDX, 600 detonators, and 249 hand grenades during his career.

-Prince (26/11 Hero): A Labrador who located 4 live bombs and 17 hand grenades during the 26/11 siege.

-Raja (Nagpur BDDS): After a distinguished career including VVIP security, Raja retired in 2021 after being a vital part of the Nagpur BDDS.

-Oscar and Mylo (Mumbai BDDS): Recently retired after years of service, including key roles in high-profile security operations…………!

-A Joint Counter-Terrorist Mock Exercise was conducted at IGI Airport, Delhi, to assess preparedness and enhance seamless inter-agency coordination against evolving security threats.

Personnel from CISF (QRT, BDDS, Dog Squad), Delhi Police, NSG, BCAS, DGCA, Delhi Fire Service, ARFF (DIAL) and Medical Services participated, demonstrating strong synergy and operational readiness.

-CISF remains committed to ensuring safe and secure aviation operations through constant vigilance, alertness and coordinated action.

-In the context of mock counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism drills at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in Delhi, ASG stands for Aviation Security Group.

-Key Aspects of ASG in Delhi Mock Drills:

-Definition: ASG is a specialized unit of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) responsible for the security of airports.

Role in Drills: During these high-intensity exercises, the ASG (including Quick Reaction Teams, Bomb Detection and Disposal Squads, and Dog Squads) acts as the primary responder to simulate threats like hijacking, bomb threats, or armed intrusion.

-Coordination: The ASG works in tandem with other agencies, including the Delhi Police, National Security Guard (NSG), BCAS, Delhi Fire Service, and airport rescue units (ARFF) to ensure seamless inter-agency coordination.

-Objective: The drills are conducted to validate security protocols, improve tactical response times, and ensure the safety of aviation operations.

-About CISF:

-The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) was established on March 10, 1969, under the CISF Act, 1968, initially with 2,800 personnel to provide integrated security for critical Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) following a major fire incident at Ranchi.

-Originally a “watch and ward” force, it was converted into an armed force of the Union in 1983.

-Formation (1969): Set up after the 1965 war and labor unrest highlighted the vulnerability of crucial economic assets.

-Initial Deployment: First inducted at the Fertilizer Corporation of India in Trombay on November 1, 1969.

-Armed Status (1983): The Act was amended to give the CISF status as an “Armed Force of the Union”.

-Expansion (1990s-Present): Shifted focus from only PSUs to airports (starting with Jaipur in 2000), Delhi Metro, and vital government buildings.

-Private Sector & Overseas (2009): Post-2008 Mumbai attacks, the Act was amended to enable protection of private sector enterprises and foreign deployments.

-Evolution and Modern Role

-Structure: It has grown from 3,000 to over 188,000 personnel.

-Specializations: It boasts a dedicated Fire Wing and provides security for sensitive installations like atomic power plants, space centers, sea ports, and high-security VIPs.

-Command Structure: Headquartered in Delhi and operating under the Ministry of Home Affairs, organized into multiple sectors.

-Key Amendments:

-1989 Amendment: Mandated the protection of employee lives at enterprise sites following a killing in Srinagar.

-2009 Amendment: Allowed the force to operate outside India and secure private sector units.

-Today, the CISF is a premier multi-skilled force often called the “National Shield” protecting India’s vital infrastructure.

-CISF stands firmly deployed, ensuring robust security architecture, seamless passenger facilitation and vigilant protection of critical infrastructure—securing the skies with unwavering commitment.

-Story of a heroes from CISF:

-The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is known for securing India’s critical infrastructure, and its personnel often go beyond duty to protect lives. One such story is that of a CISF Constable who saved a passenger’s life at the Delhi Airport.

-The Heroic Act at Delhi Airport (March 2021)

-The Situation: On a Wednesday, a passenger named Mr. S. Ravi Gnanadhas suddenly collapsed at Terminal 2 of the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), New Delhi. He was unresponsive, having fallen unconscious.

-The Heroic Action: A CISF Constable on duty noticed the emergency. Understanding that every second was crucial, the constable immediately initiated Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).

-The Result: Thanks to the quick thinking and training of the constable, the passenger was revived before further medical assistance arrived. The passenger later profusely thanked the CISF personnel for saving his life.

-Other Examples of CISF Valor

-Rescuing Passengers in Mumbai (2024): Three CISF heroes on a patrol boat (Shera 1) rescued 35 passengers from a capsized ferry near Butcher Island, eventually assisting in rescuing 72 people.

-The K9 factor:

-Dog squad conducts precautionary checking in Delhi Vidhan …The Bomb Detection & Disposal Squad (BDDS) Dog Squad is a specialized, elite unit within law enforcement and security agencies (like CISF, Delhi Police, NSG) that detects, identifies, and handles explosive threats. Combining trained K9 units with bomb technicians, they provide vital protection for critical infrastructure, airports, and public safety during threats.

-Role & Function: They are deployed for anti-sabotage checks, responding to bomb threats (e.g., in airports, metro systems, and public places), and sanitizing areas during VVIP movements.

-Composition: The team includes trained sniffer dogs (often Labradors, German Shepherds, and Dobermans) and their handlers, working alongside bomb technicians equipped with protective gear like bomb suits, blankets, and remote-operated vehicles.

-Training & Capability: Dogs are trained to detect a wide range of explosives, functioning as an “invisible layer of protection”.

-Active Deployment: These squads are regularly involved in high-stakes security operations across India, including at major airports and during national events.

-Origin: The BDDS was first initiated in West Bengal in 1990, while the first police dog squad in India was raised in Shimla in 1957.

-The BDDS Dog Squad provides critical, 24/7 support to ensure security against explosive threats, frequently conducting checks in public places and working alongside other emergency response teams.

The National Security Guard (NSG), or “Black Cats,” has produced numerous heroes known for their ultimate sacrifice during counter-terror operations. Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan (26/11 attacks), Lt Col Niranjan E.K. (Pathankot operation), and Havaldar Gajender Singh are prominent, highly decorated martyrs who led from the front, embodying supreme bravery.

-Renowned Heroes of the NSG (Veer Gatha)

-Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, AC: A 51 Special Action Group (SAG) officer who died fighting terrorists at the Taj Hotel during 26/11 Mumbai attacks (2008). He is honored for his selfless leadership and saving multiple hostages.

-Lt Col Niranjan E.K.: A member of the NSG’s Bomb Disposal Unit who made the supreme sacrifice during the 2016 Pathankot operation.

-Havaldar Gajender Singh: A 51 SAG commando who gave his life during Operation Black Tornado (26/11 Mumbai attacks).

-Deshraj Yadav: An NSG commando who was severely injured in the 2001 Parliament attack and continues to show immense courage.

-Martyrs Honored on the NSG Wall of Remembrance

-Nayi Pankaj Kumar (2007)

-R-II Surendra Kumar (2006)

-Suresh Chand Yadav (2002)

-R-II Surjan Singh (2002)

-RII Subhash Chand Sharma (1999)

These heroes are known for their service during high-stakes missions like Operation Black Tornado, Operation Cyclone, and various counter-terrorism operations, often protecting the nation at the cost of their lives……….!

A bit of history:

NSG Raising Day 2024 (16th October), Theme & HistoryThe National Security Guard (NSG) is India’s elite federal contingency force, established on September 22, 1986, to combat terrorism and internal disturbances. Created in the wake of the 1984 Operation Blue Star, it is a “zero error” force under the Ministry of Home Affairs, modeled after specialized units like Germany’s GSG-9 and UK’s SAS.

-Establishment & Purpose: Conceived after the 1984 Operation Blue Star to address high-casualty militant incidents, the NSG was formally raised in 1986 to function as a specialized, rapid-strike counter-terror unit.

-Structure: The NSG consists of personnel from the Indian Army, Central Armed Police Forces, and State Police Forces. It consists primarily of the Special Action Group (SAG) and Special Ranger Group (SRG).

-Initial Operations: The NSG was immediately utilized for operations in Punjab in the 1980s, including Operation Black Thunder I in 1986, which successfully cleared the Golden Temple of militants.

-Key Operations: Notable actions include Operation Black Thunder (1986/1988), combating hijackings (IC-814 Kandahar), and the major 2008 Mumbai attacks (Operation Black Tornado).

-Evolution: Following the 2008 Mumbai attacks, the NSG established regional hubs in Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Gandhinagar for faster deployment.

-The force is known for its “Black Cat” commandos, signifying their elite status. Their philosophy centers on speed, surprise, stealth, and precision. They are designated to tackle all facets of terrorism in any part of the country.

-The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS)

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) was established in January 1978 as a cell within the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) following the 1976 Indian Airlines hijacking. It became an independent department in 1987 under the Ministry of Civil Aviation following the 1985 Kanishka bombing, serving as the apex regulator for aviation security in India.

-Key Historical Milestones:

-1978 Formulation: Set up as a Cell in the DGCA on the recommendations of the Pande Committee.

-1987 Reorganization: Reorganized as an independent department following the Kanishka tragedy (June 1985) to prioritize security measures.

-Mission: To safeguard civil aviation against acts of unlawful interference.

-Structure: Headed by a Commissioner of Security (Director General of Police) and operates under the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

-Primary Functions & Responsibilities:

-Setting Standards: Lays down security standards and measures for international/domestic airports, aircraft, and aviation staff.

-Monitoring & Enforcement: Monitors implementation of security rules, conducts inspections, and runs surprise checks/mock drills to test preparedness.

-Training & Security Clearances: Provides security training and issues clearances, including for drone users.

-Deployment: Recommends the deployment of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel at airports.

-BCAS now operates with twenty regional offices located at major airports across India.

-The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)

-The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India, established in 1931, is the apex statutory regulatory body overseeing air safety, licensing, and compliance with international standards. It evolved from a colonial-era aviation department to a robust authority, now operating under the Ministry of Civil Aviation and conducting investigations via the AAIB.

-Key milestones in DGCA history include:

-Establishment (1931): Lt. Col. Shelmerdine was appointed the first Director General of Civil Aviation to manage regulatory issues.

-Regulatory Foundation: The Indian Aircraft Act was promulgated in 1934 and formulated in 1937.

-Post-Independence: The organization was formally structured to regulate the growing aviation industry, overseeing the nationalization of airlines in the 1950s.

-Safety Focus: In 2011, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) was established to separate investigation from regulatory functions.

-Modernization & Autonomy: The Aircraft (Amendment) Act, 2020, granted the DGCA statutory status, further solidified by the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024.

-Digitalization (2021): The e-GCA (e-governance in DGCA) platform was launched to improve transparency and efficiency.

-Key Responsibilities: The DGCA ensures compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, issues licenses, regulates aerodromes, and enforces safety norms.

-Delhi Police:

-The Delhi Police, one of the world’s largest metropolitan police forces, traces its roots to a 1854 security force under British Resident rule, later formalizing under the 1861 Indian Police Act. Reorganized in 1946–1948 after partition, it transitioned to a Commissioner system on July 1, 1978, elevating its structure to handle capital city security.

-Key Historical Developments:

-Pre-Independence: The policing concept existed under Mughal rule, managed by a Kotwal. The first formal, smaller force was created in 1854, and it remained part of the Punjab Police until 1947.

-Post-Independence (1947-1960s): Due to the influx of refugees in 1948, the force was rapidly expanded. On February 16, 1948, the first Inspector General of Police (IGP) was appointed. By 1951, the strength increased to 8,000 and the Deputy Inspector General post was created in 1956.

-Reorganization (1960s-1970s): A commission headed by Justice G.D. Khosla was formed in 1966, leading to reorganization into four police districts: North, Central, South, and New Delhi.

=Commissioner System (1978): On July 1, 1978, the Police Commissioner system was adopted to replace the older IG system, with J.N. Chaturvedi as the first Commissioner. This consolidated authority over licensing and law enforcement under the police, reducing the direct role of District Magistrates.

-Modern Day: Currently, the force serves the National Capital Territory with 15+ districts (as of 2012, increased from 11) and continues to expand its personnel to over 76,000 to manage growing security needs.

-Key Milestones:

-First FIR: Registered in 1861 at the Sabzi Mandi police station.

-First Kotwal: Malikul Umara Faqruddin in 1237 A.D..

-Last Kotwal: Sh. Gangadhar Nehru in 1857.

The headquarters of the Delhi Police is located at Jai Singh Road, New Delhi, operating under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.

So it is time to end but again with a story: Delhi Police features many heroes recognized for bravery and service, including IPS officer Chhaya Sharma, known for leading tough cases like Nirbhaya, and Head Constable Seema Dhaka, who received an out-of-turn promotion for rescuing over 70 missing children. Other recognized officers include Special Cell bravery medal winners SI Udham Singh, Insp. Nishant Dahiya, and Inspector Manoj Kumar.

-Key Heroes and Recognized Personnel

-IPS Chhaya Sharma: Known for her fearlessness in the Nirbhaya case and Baby Falak case, she has been recognized globally for her work and leadership.

-SI Kiran Sethi (Lady Singham): A black belt martial artist who has trained over 800,000 students in self-defense through the ‘Prahar’ program.

-Head Constable Seema Dhaka: Rewarded for an exceptional, speedy rescue of 76 missing children.

-Gallantry Medal Winners (2026): SI Udham Singh, Insp. Nishant Dahiya, Inspector Manjit, and SI Amit Bhati were honored for high-risk operations against armed gangsters and terrorists, often involving direct gunfire exchanges.

-Operational Experts: Inspector Manoj Kumar, SI Anshu Chaudhary, and Head Constable Aleem Ahmad were recognized for neutralizing a wanted NIA-listed terrorist in August 2024.

-Special Cell Officers: SI Satender Yadav, noted for his role in the Batla House encounter and in arresting over 50 militants, including Lashkar-e-Toiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad cadre.

-Long-Serving Officers: Officers like Retd. ACP Virender Singh Sajwan and ACP Vijay Kumar Vats have been recognized for their long careers, including investigating the JNU Sedition Case and managing communal harmony in North East Delhi, respectively.

-Bravery and Mentorship:

-SI Kiran Sethi is recognized not just for field actions, but for training thousands of girls in self-defense, earning a place in the Limca Book of Records.

-Delhi Police Martyr’s List: The Delhi Police honors their fallen comrades, such as Assistant Sub Inspector Shambu Dayal Meena and Head Constable Pardeep, who made the ultimate sacrifice while on duty…………….!