Govt. plans to unify security regulations for 250 seaports, Pg8

Key Highlights:

• The Union Government has designated the CISF as the security regulator for over 250 seaports in India to enhance coastal security.
• Initially, the CISF will regulate at least 80 seaports handling export and import, managing access control, cargo screening, and seafront patrolling.
• The move aims to establish a uniform security architecture, deploying a “sovereign entity” at private seaports that handle cargo.
• The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways designated CISF as the Recognised Security Organisation for seaports under the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code on November 18.

Detailed Insights:

• Currently, there is no uniform security template for seaports, with security often managed by private agencies and local police, creating gaps in coastal security.
• The decision follows guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs in 2023 after deliberations at the National Security Strategy Conference to improve seaport security.
• A joint committee of CISF and Director General Shipping conducted a study in 2024, identifying security gaps and recommending remedial measures, leading to this decision.
• The CISF estimates that 800-1,000 personnel are needed per seaport and has requested the MHA to sanction 10,000 additional personnel for the initial deployment at 80 seaports.
• A hybrid security model will be implemented, with CISF handling core security functions at export-import ports, while non-core duties may be undertaken by State Police or Private Security Agencies.

Key Concepts Involved:

• CISF (Central Industrial Security Force): A central armed police force in India responsible for providing security to critical infrastructure.
• International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code: A set of measures to enhance the security of ships and port facilities.
• Sovereign Entity: A security force directly under government control, ensuring a higher level of accountability and reliability.