Context:
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The Union Government has decided to designate the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) as the security regulator for India’s seaports, marking a major reform in coastal and maritime security governance.
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The move seeks to address long-standing security gaps arising from fragmented and privatised port security arrangements.
Key Highlights:
Government Initiative / Policy Details
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CISF designated as the Recognised Security Organisation (RSO) for seaports under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code on November 18.
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Responsibility covers over 250 seaports nationwide.
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In the first phase, CISF will regulate at least 80 major seaports handling exports and imports.
Operational & Security Functions
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CISF to handle:
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Access control
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Cargo screening
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Seafront patrolling
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Objective is to deploy a “sovereign security entity” even at privately operated ports, ensuring accountability.
Hybrid Security Model
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CISF to manage core security functions at key ports.
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State Police or Private Security Agencies may continue non-core duties, enabling flexibility and scalability.
Institutional & Strategic Background
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Decision follows:
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Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) guidelines, 2023, issued after the National Security Strategy Conference
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A 2024 joint study by CISF and Director General of Shipping, which flagged critical security vulnerabilities at ports
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Human Resource Requirements
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Estimated requirement: 800–1,000 CISF personnel per port.
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CISF has sought approval from MHA for 10,000 additional personnel for initial deployment at 80 ports.
Relevant Prelims Points:
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Issue: Fragmented and uneven security standards across Indian seaports.
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Causes:
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Reliance on private security agencies
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Lack of a unified national security template
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Government Initiative:
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CISF as port security regulator under ISPS Code
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Key Institutions:
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CISF
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Ministry of Home Affairs
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Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
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Impact:
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Strengthened coastal security
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Reduced risk of smuggling, terrorism, and infiltration
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Relevant Mains Points:
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Internal Security Dimension:
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Ports are critical infrastructure vulnerable to terrorism, trafficking, and organised crime.
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Unified security architecture plugs loopholes across India’s 7,500 km coastline.
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Governance & Federal Coordination:
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Balances central oversight with state-level operational support.
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Introduction of a sovereign force enhances standardisation and accountability.
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International Obligations:
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Strengthens India’s compliance with the ISPS Code, boosting confidence in global maritime trade.
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Economic & Trade Perspective:
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Secure ports are essential for export competitiveness and supply-chain resilience.
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Way Forward:
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Phased expansion to all seaports
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Continuous training in maritime security and technology
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Integration with coastal surveillance systems and Navy–Coast Guard coordination
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UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):
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GS 3: Internal Security, Coastal Security, Critical Infrastructure
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GS 2: Governance, Centre–State Coordination
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Prelims: CISF, ISPS Code, Maritime Security