CISF Designated as Recognised Security Organisation for Indian Ports

The Union government has designated the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) as the Recognised Security Organisation (RSO) under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. The move aims to strengthen security and address existing gaps across more than 250 major and minor ports in India.

Role and Responsibilities Under the New Designation

• Coverage expansion

• CISF currently secures 13 major ports.
• As RSO, it will take over security at 67 additional major ports, increasing its maritime security footprint significantly.

• Key security functions

• Screening of cargo
• Access control and perimeter security
• Oversight of security systems and procedures
• Auditing and advising port authorities on compliance with ISPS norms

• Current scenario

• India has about 200 ports, though around 65 handle cargo operations.
• Ports not under CISF protection are presently managed by state police and private security agencies.

ISPS Code: Global Maritime Security Framework

• Purpose

• The ISPS Code was adopted post-9/11 to protect ships and port facilities from terrorism and other security threats.
• It mandates security risk assessments, security plans, and appointment of designated officers.

• Legal status

• Became binding on 1 July 2004.
• Implemented through Chapter XI-2 of the SOLAS Convention.
• Only Contracting Governments to SOLAS are legally required to comply and report to IMO.

About CISF

• Overview

• A Central Armed Police Force under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Secures public sector undertakings, airports, power plants, government buildings, major private installations.

• Establishment

• Founded on 10 March 1969.

• Fire Wing

• CISF is the only CAPF with a dedicated Fire Wing, responsible for firefighting and disaster management at critical infrastructure sites.

Source: HT & others