What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
These canines reside in individual air-conditioned rooms at a CISF facility in Delhi’s Palam
NEW DELHI: In a quiet room, seven-year-old Oscar, a fully trained and remarkably disciplined dog, was at ease. His eyes brightened as his handler entered the room, instantly alert and ready for duty, despite it being his scheduled day off.
Oscar is one of the extraordinary canines assigned to protect and secure the premises of Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, one of India’s largest airports. With the ongoing G20 Summit bringing an influx of dignitaries and foreign visitors, the crucial role of these four-legged heroes has magnified.
These canines reside in individual air-conditioned rooms at the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) Dog Squad camp in Delhi’s Palam. Carefully nurtured and well-fed, their kennels are a testament to the dedication of their handlers.
Within the squad, there are 21 dogs, including 14 Labradors, three Golden Retrievers, three German Shepherds, and one loyal Cocker Spaniel. Oscar is among this talented group of canines.
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In an interaction with The New Indian, Oscar’s handler, Constable Yogendra Pratap, said, “Oscar has a fondness for sniffing. Though it’s his day off, he seems to enjoy being amidst the airport visitors. His eyes light up when he fulfills his duty at IGI.”
“During the G20 Summit, our vigilance at IGI intensifies,” Pratap added, emphasizing the critical role these dogs play in ensuring security.
Deputy Commandant Kapil S Kamdi of CISF explained the collaborative efforts of the dog squad and the bomb disposal squad. “Both units work hand in hand. During the G20 Summit, the vehicles of esteemed guests are meticulously checked to prevent any potential sabotage or disturbances with the assistance of these incredible canines. We also conduct thorough inspections of unattended bags,” Kamdi stated.
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“Our squad consists of dogs from four different breeds, each with impeccable sniffing and detection abilities,” Kamdi continued. “Notably, our Cocker Spaniel, a small breed, aids in scanning narrow spaces within flights, contributing to a comprehensive security sweep.”
These exceptional dogs receive a nutritious diet twice a day. Mornings are greeted with milk or curd, while evenings are reserved for nourishing servings of mutton.
The service tenure for these canines is 10 years, after which they are entrusted to dog activists, NGOs, or loving dog enthusiasts through an auction process. “Two dogs have recently retired, bringing our current squad strength to 23. We have submitted a request to acquire two new dogs through official channels,” informed another CISF officer.
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