In a major step toward strengthening gender representation in India’s security forces, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has begun forming its first-ever all-women commando team for counter-terrorist operations at high-security and sensitive installations across the country.
A selected group of 100 female personnel, currently deployed in the Aviation Security Group (ASG) guarding civil airports, are undergoing specialized training to prepare them for commando duties.
The training is being held at the CISF’s dedicated centre in Barwaha, Madhya Pradesh, where an eight-week advanced commando course has commenced.
Training for Toughest Missions
The program includes rigorous modules in:
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Physical fitness and endurance
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Live-fire drills under stress
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Weapons handling and combat techniques
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Rappelling and obstacle navigation
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Survival skills in forested terrain
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A 48-hour confidence-building exercise focused on decision-making and teamwork under pressure
According to a senior CISF official, the training will equip the personnel for Quick Reaction Team (QRT) roles and Special Task Force (STF) deployments at critical infrastructure sites, both in the government and private sectors.
The CISF, which operates under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, currently has 12,491 women in service—around 8% of its total strength of 1.7 lakh personnel. The force is responsible for protecting 69 civil airports, Delhi Metro, and several strategic installations across India.
In 2026, the CISF plans to induct 2,400 more women, and aims to gradually increase the share of female personnel to at least 10%, following directives from the Home Ministry.
