CISF Launches First All-Women Commando Unit
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has introduced its first all-women commando unit in 2025. This initiative aims to enhance gender parity in frontline security roles. The unit is currently undergoing intensive training at the Regional Training Centre in Barwaha, Madhya Pradesh. Around 30 women personnel are enrolled in an eight-week advanced course designed to prepare them for specialised counter-terrorist operations. This marks development in India’s security forces, promoting greater inclusion of women in high-risk and critical assignments.
Training Programme
The training began in August 2025 and includes physical fitness, weapons handling, live-fire drills, rappelling, survival techniques, and forest training. A 48-hour confidence-building module tests decision-making and teamwork under simulated hostile conditions. The programme is rigorous, aiming to equip women commandos with skills equal to their male counterparts. After the first batch, a second group of 100 women will undergo similar training, expanding the unit.
Role and Deployment
The all-women commandos will serve in Quick Reaction Teams (QRT) and Special Task Forces (STF). They will be deployed at high-security installations such as civil airports, metro systems, and sensitive government and private sector sites. Their role involves rapid response to threats, counter-terrorism, and specialised security operations. This deployment is part of CISF’s strategy to enhance operational readiness and gender diversity.
Women’s Representation in CISF
Currently, women constitute about 8% of CISF personnel, numbering 12,491. The force plans to recruit 2,400 more women by 2026 to meet the government’s target of 10% female representation. The introduction of an all-women commando unit is a step beyond symbolic inclusion. It reflects a policy shift recognising women’s capability in core operational roles traditionally dominated by men.
Significance and Future Outlook
CISF is the first central armed police force in India to establish a dedicated all-women commando wing. This move signals a broader change in India’s security sector, encouraging the integration of women into specialised and frontline roles. Regular all-women commando courses will become part of the training calendar, ensuring sustained growth in female participation. The initiative marks the government’s commitment to gender equality and operational excellence.
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