NEWS: The Union Home Ministry is planning to bring nearly 1,200 fishing harbours and fishing landing sites under the security supervision of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) as part of efforts to strengthen India's coastal security.
Why is the Government Taking This Step?
- India has a long coastline of more than 7,500 kmà coastal security a major national security concern.
- Fishing harbours and landing centres are often busy locations with constant movement of fishermen, boats, workers, and goods, making them vulnerable toà Smuggling, Illegal migration, Infiltration by anti-national elements etc
- Bringing these facilities under the oversight of CISF = Strengthen surveillance and standardize security measures across coastal regions.
The force may assist in:
- Designing security systems
- Creating security protocols
- Monitoring implementation
- Training local authorities
- Ensuring uniform security standards
RESPONSIBILITY
States are responsible for:
- Post-construction management
- Maintenance
- Daily operations
- Administration of fishing harbours under their control
Central Government-Controlled Harbours
- Fishing harbours under the Central Government are managed through Port Trusts.
- These come under the supervision of the Ministry of Fisheries.
ABOUT CISF
- CISF was established in 1969
- Functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
- CISF is a Central Armed Police Force (CAPF).
- CISF secures airports, seaports, metros, nuclear facilities and other critical infrastructure.
- Main objective: Strengthening India's coastal and maritime security architecture.