The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is one of India’s premier security agencies, responsible for safeguarding critical infrastructure, industrial installations, and important establishments across the country. Established on March 10, 1969, the CISF has come a long way in its journey of over five decades, earning a reputation for its professionalism, discipline, and dedication towards duty. Every year, on March 10, the CISF celebrates its Raising Day, commemorating its inception and recognizing the contributions of its personnel towards national security.
The history of the CISF can be traced back to the early 1960s, when India witnessed a wave of industrialization and urbanization. The need for a specialized security force to protect the growing number of industrial units and vital installations was felt, and the CISF was conceived as a result. Initially, the force had a modest strength of 2,800 personnel, who were trained in basic security procedures and deployed in a few select locations. Over time, the CISF expanded its scope and coverage, taking on more challenging assignments and building its capabilities in various domains.
Today, the CISF is a force to be reckoned with, boasting of over 1.5 lakh personnel and a wide array of expertise in areas such as aviation security, VIP protection, disaster management, and cyber security, among others. Its mandate includes guarding critical infrastructure such as airports, seaports, power plants, nuclear installations, and heritage monuments, as well as providing security cover to important personalities, including the Prime Minister and other dignitaries. The CISF has also played a pivotal role in combating terrorism, smuggling, and other transnational crimes, working in close coordination with other security agencies both within India and abroad.
The significance of the CISF Raising Day lies not only in its historical importance but also in its current relevance. It is an occasion for the force to reflect on its achievements, reiterate its commitment to the nation’s security, and renew its pledge to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. It is also an opportunity to recognize the sacrifices and contributions of the CISF personnel, who work tirelessly in challenging and often hostile environments to keep the country safe. On this day, various events and activities are organized across CISF units, including parades, sports competitions, cultural shows, and welfare initiatives, to foster a sense of camaraderie and esprit de corps among the force’s members.
