Most of us are aware and appreciative of the Indian Armed Forces and the things they do day in and out to ensure the safety and sanctity of our country. There is however another, rather significant aspect of our national security that often goes unappreciated and overlooked. Clubbed under the umbrella of “Central Armed Police Forces” these five paramilitary forces (CISF, CRPF, SSB, BSF and ITBP) make up a huge chunk of India’s military might and tackle many internal and external security threats on a daily basis.
Central Industrial Security Force
Tasked with providing security to India’s major Public Sector Undertakings, Airports, Metro stations and other industrial establishments, it is the world’s largest industrial security force.
Central Reserve Police Force
The largest paramilitary force in the world, the CRPF operates in some of the toughest environments in the world. From the chilly and conflicted by lanes of Kashmir to the humid and dense forests of Chhattisgarh, there is rarely any battlefield where the CRPF haven’t proven their prowess. Created to combat internal armed conflicts and undertake riot control, this is a force that has proven its mettle and etched the name of its personnel in the passage of time repeatedly.
Border Security Force
Securing the borders of the world’s largest democracy, from the scorching sand dunes of Rajasthan to the humid and mosquito infested jungles of West Bengal, there is seldom any piece of borderland which is not guarded by this mighty force.
Indo Tibetan Border Police
Intercepting and stopping any infiltration on the Indo Tibetan border is why this force was raised and it has proved its mettle time and again. From busting drug operations to hunkering down illegal immigration, ITBP excels in all fields.
Sashastra Seema Bal
The smallest of the lot, the SSB is no joke. Ensuring the border security on the Nepal and Myanmar border, they play an instrumental role in reducing illegal immigration and unlawful trade.
