Mumbai
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has launched its first specialized training course for private security personnel deployed at ports, aiming to reinforce India’s Hybrid Port Security Model. The initiative is being piloted simultaneously at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), Mumbai, and Chennai Port Authority (ChPA).
The two-week Port Facility Security Course is designed to standardize security protocols across ports, enhance compliance with international maritime codes, and build the capacity of private security staff. The curriculum, developed in consultation with the Directorate General of Shipping and other stakeholders, covers port operations, threat identification, emergency response, legal frameworks, use of technical security gadgets, and the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
During the pilot, 40 private security personnel from JNPA Sheva, DPA Kandla, and MPA Mumbai are enrolled in Mumbai, while 26 personnel from New Mangalore Port Authority, Kamarajar Port Limited Ennore, Chennai Port Authority, and V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority Tuticorin are participating in Chennai. CISF plans to expand the program to other ports in the coming months.
Shri Sunil Paliwal, IAS, Chairperson of ChPA, called the course “a critical advancement in port security management.” CISF Inspector General S.R. Saravanan highlighted that the training will empower security personnel to safeguard critical infrastructure and maritime trade with professionalism and confidence.
This initiative comes amid heightened maritime security concerns, with ports earlier raised to MARSEC Level 2 to strengthen vigilance, inspections, and coordination with security agencies. The course is expected to enhance resilience against evolving threats and bolster India’s role in securing maritime trade in the Indian Ocean region.
