NEW DELHI: The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) celebrated its 56th Raising Day with a grand ceremonial function at Rajaditya Chola RTC Thakkolam in Tamil Nadu. For the first time, the Raising Day Parade was organized in the state, with Union Minister of Home Affairs and Cooperation, Amit Shah, gracing the occasion as the Chief Guest.
The event witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including L. Murugan, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs; Lieutenant General Karanbir Singh Brar, GOC, Dakshin Bharat Area; Rear Admiral Satish Shenai, and other senior officials from CAPF, state police, and various government departments.
Honoring the Brave and Showcasing CISF’s Strength
Upon his arrival, Amit Shah paid tribute to the fallen heroes at the Brave Heart Memorial, laying a wreath in their honor. He then proceeded to the parade venue, where he was escorted by Rajwinder Singh Bhatti, Director General, CISF. The parade, comprising 388 personnel and an all-women band of 63 members, honored the Home Minister with a General Salute.
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Following the parade inspection, a captivating march-past showcased the discipline, coordination, and expertise of CISF personnel.
Address by DG CISF
Welcoming the Chief Guest and dignitaries, DG CISF Rajwinder Singh Bhatti highlighted the force’s significant milestones and modernization efforts. He emphasized CISF’s advancements in IT, aviation security, counter-drone technologies, fire management, and weapons tactics, underlining the force’s commitment to staying ahead in an evolving security landscape.
He announced that CISF will collaborate with top institutions in India and abroad for advanced training, ensuring personnel are equipped with cutting-edge knowledge and technology.
Welfare and Excellence Initiatives
The DG also outlined key welfare initiatives undertaken by CISF, including:
- New HR Policy to improve work-life balance.
- Health Initiatives, such as integrating yoga, millets in meals, and daily honey consumption.
- Housing satisfaction improvements, aiming to increase from 42% to 60%.
- Sports Development, with a CISF female mountaineer training for a Mount Everest expedition in 2024 and a full CISF team expedition planned for 2026.
- Olympics Vision 2036, recruiting 300 young sports talents.
- Formation of the first-ever CISF Women Hockey Team.
He reaffirmed CISF’s readiness to professionally undertake any responsibility assigned by the government.
Home Minister’s Address and Key Announcements
During the Raising Day celebrations, Amit Shah released CISF’s annual publication, Sentinel-2025. He commended CISF for setting high standards of professionalism and its indispensable role in national security and economic stability. He highlighted CISF’s responsibility for securing critical infrastructures such as ports, airports, business hubs, and research institutions, and stated that its role in port security is expected to expand in the future.
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Amit Shah also appreciated CISF’s participation in government initiatives, including:
- Promotion of millets
- Tree plantation drives
- Yoga adoption
- Scientific beekeeping
He lauded Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural heritage, acknowledging its contributions to administrative reforms, spiritual growth, education, and national unity. Additionally, he announced the renaming of the CISF Training Centre in honor of the great Chola warrior, Rajaditya Chola, paying tribute to his valor and sacrifice.
Infrastructure Development and Awareness Initiatives
Marking the occasion, the Home Minister laid the foundation stone for six new CISF infrastructure projects across the country and virtually inaugurated a gymnasium at SSG Noida.
He also flagged off the Mega Cyclothon, featuring two teams cycling from Lakhpat Fort (Gujarat) and Bakkhali (West Bengal) across 6,553 km, covering 11 states and Union Territories along India’s coastline. The Cyclothon, themed “Surakshit Tat, Samridh Bharat,” aims to enhance coastal security awareness and honor India’s martyrs and freedom fighters.
Recognition of Excellence
The Raising Day event included an investiture ceremony, where 22 CISF officers and personnel received prestigious awards, including:
- Gallantry Awards
- Jeevan Raksha Awards
- President Police Medal for Distinguished Service
- President Police Medal for Fire Service
Spectacular Demonstrations by CISF
The event featured various live demonstrations showcasing CISF’s preparedness and capabilities:
1. Yoga Demonstration: Female force members performed 50 complex yoga asanas, including artistic, aerial, and acrobatic yoga. The blindfolded Surya Namaskar by 150 female personnel symbolized unity, concentration, and resilience.
2. Protecting India’s Sensitive Installations: A simulated security operation at a Department of Space installation displayed CISF’s integration of AI-powered surveillance, K9 units, BDDS teams, and drone reconnaissance in countering threats.
3. Fire Wing Daredevils: The CISF Fire Wing demonstrated its expertise in tackling fire and disaster scenarios, including industrial fire control, high-rise rescues, and LPG bullet fire management.
In line with its motto, “Protection and Security,” CISF remains dedicated to upholding professional excellence. The force continues to enhance its capabilities and ensure the highest level of security for India’s critical infrastructures.
The grand celebrations of the 56th CISF Raising Day at Rajaditya Chola RTC, Tamil Nadu, reaffirmed the force’s integral role in safeguarding the nation, its people, and its economic assets.