The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has launched its first-ever all-women commando unit, marking a major step toward boosting female representation in key security roles. The selected women are currently undergoing an intensive eight-week training program at the Regional Training Centre (RTC) in Barwaha, Madhya Pradesh.

The specialised training is designed to prepare them for deployment in Quick Reaction Teams (QRT) and the Special Task Force (STF), both of which are responsible for securing sensitive government facilities and critical installations. 

The rigorous programme includes endurance runs, obstacle courses, rappelling drills, and forest survival exercises. Trainees also practice handling weapons and shooting under pressure, and participate in a two-day exercise to enhance decision-making, teamwork, and tactical skills.

The first batch of 30 women began training on August 11 and will continue until October 4. The next batch is scheduled from October 6 to November 29. In this initial phase, about 100 women from Aviation Security Groups (ASG) and other critical units will complete the commando course. The CISF plans to make such programmes a permanent part of its training schedule, with personnel initially posted at airports and later deployed to other high-security sites.

The move is part of efforts to achieve the Ministry of Home Affairs’ goal of 10% women in the force. Currently, women constitute about 8% of the CISF, with 12,491 serving, and another 2,400 expected to join by 2026.
Earlier this year, the Home Ministry also approved the creation of the CISF’s first all-women battalion near Delhi.

 Members of this battalion will be responsible for protecting key locations in the Capital, including the Parliament, Indira Gandhi International Airport, the Delhi Metro, and other government buildings. The initiative aims to expand career opportunities for women in security services while strengthening India’s preparedness to protect critical infrastructure.