Q. Examine the contributions of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to the internal security of India. Also highlight the issues pertaining to them. (Answer in 150 words)

07 Oct, 2022 GS III Daily Answer Writing 2022-23 ( Upgrade)
Modal Answer

Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) refers to 7 central security forces of India under the administrative control of Ministry of Home Affairs.
They play a vital role in guarding borders and assisting Centre/State Governments in maintenance of internal security.

CAPF consist of -

  1. Border Security Force (BSF)
  2. Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
  3. Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
  4. Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)
  5. Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)

Contributions of CAPFs:

  • Counter Insurgency Operations conducted by CRPF to tackle Left Wing Extremism. Eg. Shrinking of Red Corridor to just 40 districts (recent operations Octopus & Double Bull etc.
  • Riot Control: Extreme Law and Order situations are handled by Rapid Action Force of CRPF. Eg. Crucial role by RAF during 2008 Taj Hotel Attacks.
  • Securing Borders: from Infiltration & transborder crimes by BSF, SSB and ITBP. Eg. Recent attempt of infiltration in J&K's Samba Sector foiled by BSF.
  • Security of Critical Infrastructure like Atomic Reactors by CISF, thus ensuring energy security.
  • Disaster Relief Works to safeguard civilian lives by ITBP. 

Issues faced by CAPF:

  • Promotion Issues: Reservation of top position for IPS officers, demoralising effect on CAPF officers.
    • Stagnation in promotions and lack of cadre review
  • Infrastructure Deficit: Inadequacy of roads (restricting mobility), electricity in border outposts, housing, medical facilities & other basic facilities.
  • Delay in Modernisation due to cumbersome Procurement Process of combat ready equipment
  • Stress among Personnel: Long working hours, low pay, poor work conditions etc. leading to frequent Suicides.
  • Heavy dependence of states on CAPF, even for everyday law & order issues, thus, affecting the anti-insurgency and border guarding operations.
Other challenges: Absence of grievance redressal mechanism, lack of R&D Wing in the force etc.

Steps taken by the government

  • CAPF e-AWAS web portal, G+SG hub in Gujarat
  • 'Ayushman CAPF' scheme - medical facilities to families
  • Enhancement of existing Risk and Hardship Allowances for CAPF personnel deployed in J & K, LWE affected districts.
‘Bharat ke Veer Fund’ has been created ensuring a minimum of Rs. 1 crore to the families of the martyrs

Further Steps needed

  • States to reduce dependence on CAPF and augment their own police forces through adequate training & equipment.
  • Specialised training to CAPF: A mix of conventional matters & latest technology like IT, cyber security, etc.
  • Stress management: Rationalising work hours, meditation, accommodation for family near place of deployment etc.
  • Other measures: frequent Cadre Review, modernising forces, setting up of R&D wing etc. 

The success of India’s Economic & global rise critically hinges on its internal security. Thus, a holistic “care & competence” package for CAPF is the need of the hour.

Please login to upload your copy.

Uploaded Copies

No copies found.