The Modi government has approved the creation of India's first all-women battalion within the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) aiming to boost gender diversity and empower women in defense forces. The decision came to light after India's Union Home Minister, Amit Shah sanctioned the formation of this battalion on November 12, 2024.
The unit will train over 1,000 personnel and will be led by a senior commandant, to address security demands at airports and VIP security and priority installations. Specialized training programs aim to increase women's participation in the CISF and contribute to the nation's security. The Union Home Ministry has approved the establishment of an exclusive women's unit called the "reserve battalion" within the force, with a total strength of 1,025 personnel, and has initiated preparations for early recruitment, training, and location selection. Officials stated that over 7 per cent of the force constitute women personnel and its strength is about 1.80 lakh. According to officials, "The training is being specially designed to create an elite battalion capable of performing a multifarious role as commandos in VIP security and also security of airports and metros."
The CISF consists of 12 reserve battalions with both men and women personnel who are placed to serve duties including elections and permanent tasks like guarding installations. The force also provides security cover to facilities in the nuclear and aerospace domain, as well as private sectors like Infosys and Reliance refineries.
