Mangaluru: CISF inducts first-ever all-women commando unit for core ops

Mangaluru: The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has launched its first all-women commando unit, marking a historic step in integrating women into frontline operational roles. This initiative is aimed at empowering women within the force and redefining their participation in security operations.

Advanced training programme begins

The initial batch of 30 women, currently serving at various airports, has begun an eight-week intensive commando training programme at the Regional Training Centre (RTC) in Barwaha, Madhya Pradesh. The training runs from August 11 to October 4, 2025, followed by a second batch from October 6 to November 29, 2025.

The curriculum includes:

• Physical endurance drills

Upon completion, these women commandos will join Quick Reaction Teams (QRT) and Special Task Forces (STF) in high-security zones, initially at airports and later at other sensitive installations.

A step towards gender parity

In the first phase, at least 100 women from Aviation Security Groups (ASGs) and other sensitive CISF units will undergo training. The force plans to make all-women commando courses a regular feature, signaling a cultural shift within its operational structure.

Currently, CISF has 12,491 women personnel (8%), and the Ministry of Home Affairs aims to raise women’s representation to 10%. To achieve this, 2,400 additional women will be recruited in 2026, with future hiring structured to maintain the target.

Transforming security leadership

This milestone underscores CISF’s commitment to gender equality and operational excellence. “The induction of women in core commando roles takes us closer to a more inclusive and modern security force,” said a senior CISF official.

With this, CISF positions itself as a progressive leader among India’s armed organisations, ensuring women play critical roles in safeguarding the nation’s vital infrastructure.