New Delhi, August 2025: In a landmark initiative to strengthen India’s maritime security architecture, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has launched its first-ever specialized training program for private security personnel deployed at ports, marking the beginning of India’s Hybrid Port Security Model.
The training, simultaneously rolled out at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), Mumbai, and Chennai Port Authority (ChPA), seeks to build capacity among private security agencies, standardize protocols across ports, and ensure compliance with international maritime codes.
India has nearly 200 small and intermediate ports, of which only about 65–68 are active in cargo operations. While CISF provides security at all 13 major ports, private security plays a crucial role in securing warehouses, cargo zones, access gates, and installations at smaller ports. Recognizing the need for uniform security standards nationwide, CISF developed the program in consultation with Port Authorities, Customs, Shipping Companies, and Freight Handling Agents.
The two-week “Port Facility Security Course”, designed in collaboration with the Directorate General of Shipping, equips private security personnel with knowledge of:
Port operations and infrastructure
Threat identification and risk assessment
Emergency response mechanisms
Legal frameworks and compliance
Handling technical security gadgets
International standards under the ISPS Code (International Ship and Port Facility Security)
The curriculum blends classroom instruction with practical drills, delivered by instructors from CISF, Customs, Marine Department, and Port Health Organization.
📍 Pilot Phase Participation
JNPA Training Facility, Mumbai: 40 private security personnel from JNPA Sheva, DPA Kandla, and MPA Mumbai
ChPA Training Centre, Chennai: 26 personnel from New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA), Kamarajar Port (KPL) Ennore, Chennai Port Authority (ChPA), and V.O. Chidambaranar Port (VOCPA) Tuticorin
CISF plans to expand the program to additional ports along both coasts in the coming months.
💬 Leadership Speaks
Shri P.S. Ranpise, ADG/South, CISF:
“This initiative is a significant step towards building the hybrid port security model. It will enhance the capacity of private security personnel, bring uniformity in security protocols, and ensure better adherence to international standards.”
Shri Sunil Paliwal, IAS, Chairperson, ChPA:
“The introduction of this course marks a critical advancement in port security management.”
Shri S.R. Saravanan, IPS, IG, CISF (South Sector):
“By providing focused training tailored to the complex environment of ports, we are empowering security personnel to perform their duties with confidence and professionalism, ultimately safeguarding critical infrastructure and trade.”
⚓ Strategic Context
This initiative comes at a time of heightened maritime security concerns, with Indian ports earlier this year temporarily elevated to MARSEC Level 2, requiring tighter vigilance and coordination with security agencies. Against this backdrop, the Port Facility Security Course represents a strategic move to boost resilience against evolving threats while reinforcing India’s role in protecting trade in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
