CENTRAL INDUSTRIAL SECURITY FORCE (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 - Security Forces)

Context: The Centre appointed Nina Singh as the Director General of CISF, making her the first woman to head this elite force.

Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)

• Formation: The CISF was established in 1969 (by CISF Act, 1968( with an initial three battalions, primarily tasked with offering integrated security to Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Premier Security Agency: With the advent of globalization and economic liberalization, CISF has evolved into a leading, multi-skilled security agency. Its focus has shifted beyond PSUs to encompass critical infrastructure installations nationwide.
• Responsibilities: CISF currently safeguards a wide range of crucial assets, including nuclear installations, space establishments, airports, seaports, power plants, sensitive government buildings, and even heritage monuments.
• Expanded Responsibilities: Recent additions to CISF's responsibilities include securing the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, VIP security, disaster management, and the establishment of a Formed Police Unit (FPU) for the United Nations in Haiti.