New Delhi: In a significant move to strengthen port security across the country, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has launched its first specialised training programme for private security personnel deployed at Indian ports.
The pilot initiative, rolled out simultaneously at Mumbai’s Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) and Chennai Port Authority (ChPA), aims to standardise and upgrade security protocols across ports under the Hybrid Port Security Model. The training seeks to enhance the capabilities of private security staff by aligning them with international maritime security standards and procedures.
India hosts nearly 200 small and intermediate ports, with only about 65–68 actively handling cargo. While CISF is responsible for securing all 13 major ports, private agencies provide security at critical points such as cargo zones, warehouses, and entry gates at smaller ports.
In a statement issued on Thursday, CISF said the “Port Facility Security Course” was developed in consultation with the Directorate General of Shipping and other key stakeholders, including port authorities, customs, shipping companies, and freight handlers. The two-week programme focuses on threat identification, emergency response, port operations, legal frameworks, and the use of advanced security technology. It also incorporates global best practices under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
The course is delivered by expert instructors from CISF, Customs, Marine Departments, and the Port Health Organisation. It combines classroom instruction with hands-on drills to ensure real-world preparedness.
As part of the pilot phase, 40 private security personnel from JNPA Sheva, DPA Kandla, and MPA Mumbai are undergoing training at JNPA, while 26 personnel from New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA), Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL) Ennore, ChPA, and V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA) Tuticorin are attending the programme in Chennai.
CISF plans to expand the initiative to other ports across India’s eastern and western seaboards in the coming months.
Speaking at the inaugural event in Chennai, Sunil Paliwal, IAS, Chairperson, Chennai Port Authority, said, “The introduction of this course marks a critical advancement in port security management.”
SR Saravanan, IPS, Inspector General, CISF (South Sector), added, “By providing focused training tailored to the unique port environment, we are empowering personnel to safeguard key infrastructure and national trade with confidence and professionalism.”
The initiative comes amid heightened maritime security concerns, with Indian ports earlier this year briefly placed under MARSEC Level 2 due to evolving geopolitical tensions, requiring enhanced vigilance and coordination.
With this new training programme, CISF aims to build a more resilient and uniform security framework to address emerging threats and secure India’s maritime trade routes in the Indian Ocean region.
