Kolkata airport has become the Central Industrial Security Force's largest hub for women personnel in India. The airport currently employs about 350 women constables and officers. This number represents the highest deployment at any airport across the country.
Women Representation Exceeds National Average
Senior CISF officials revealed these details on Monday. The total CISF strength at Kolkata airport stands at 2,102 personnel. Women make up approximately 16.7% of this force. This figure significantly surpasses the national average of 9% women representation in CISF.
"We are well ahead of the national average," stated a senior CISF official at Kolkata airport. "Once the all-women battalion becomes operational, we can further increase this strength."
New All-Women Battalion in Haryana
The force is moving to raise its first all-women battalion. This battalion will be stationed in Nuh, Haryana. The Ministry of Home Affairs approved the creation of 1,025 new posts for this battalion in 2024.
The Haryana government has allocated 50 acres of land in Nuh for the project. CISF has already assessed and cleared this land for development.
First All-Women Commando Unit Launched
In a parallel development, CISF launched its inaugural all-women commando unit. This unit aims to strengthen specialized response capabilities. Training is currently underway at the force's Regional Training Centre in Barwaha, Madhya Pradesh.
Thirty women personnel are undergoing an intensive eight-week advanced course. The training program includes several demanding components:
- Rigorous physical conditioning
- Weapons handling and live-fire exercises
- Rappelling techniques
- Survival drills
Once trained, these commandos will join Quick Reaction Teams and Special Task Forces. They will be deployed at high-security installations including airports and other critical infrastructure.
Expanding Training Programs
Officials confirmed that at least 100 women personnel will receive training in the first phase. These personnel come from Aviation Security Groups and other sensitive units.
The force intends to make this training program a regular feature. CISF has set a long-term goal of raising women's representation to 10% of its total strength. Currently, women account for about 9% of the CISF's overall personnel.
Focus on Gender Inclusion and Readiness
The strong presence of women at Kolkata airport reflects a renewed emphasis on gender inclusion. It also demonstrates enhanced operational readiness in aviation security. Women personnel play crucial roles in passenger screening and managing high-footfall zones.
The push for more women personnel comes alongside growing requirements for female staff during high-alert situations. Sensitive deployments increasingly need qualified women professionals to handle specific security scenarios.
