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CISF reports a 40% decline in suicides among personnel in 2024, marking a major milestone.
NEW DELHI: The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has achieved a significant milestone in combating suicides among its personnel, reporting a 40% decline in 2024 compared to the previous year. This marks the first time in five years that the CISF’s suicide rate has dropped below the national average, a testament to the effectiveness of its comprehensive mental health initiatives.
The suicide rate within the CISF has seen a dramatic reduction, falling to 9.87 per lakh in 2024, compared to 16.98 per lakh in 2023. In contrast, the national suicide rate stood at 12.4 per lakh in 2022, as per the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). Over the last five years, 730 suicides have been reported across the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), National Security Guard (NSG), and Assam Rifles (AR), highlighting the persistent mental health challenges within these forces.
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A study conducted in collaboration with AIIMS identified several key factors contributing to suicides among CAPF personnel, including a lack of emotional support in nuclear families, marital disagreements, financial concerns, chronic illnesses, solitude, and the inability to share stress, along with work-related pressures.
To address these challenges, the CISF has implemented a range of initiatives aimed at improving mental health and overall well-being among its personnel. Commanding officers regularly visit duty posts to foster direct communication, adhering to the motto “Know Your Men and Hear Your Men.” Daily briefings and debriefings by company commanders further help in identifying signs of distress.
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Stress management initiatives such as yoga sessions conducted by 650 trained instructors and regular games involving both jawans and officers ensure physical activity and camaraderie. An online grievance portal allows personnel to escalate issues directly to the highest levels, ensuring timely resolution. The mental health initiative, Project Mann, offers 24×7 tele-counseling and personal counseling services, benefiting over 4,200 personnel by September 2024.
To enhance work-life balance, a choice-based posting policy was introduced in December 2024, addressing grievances related to transfers and catering to the needs of women, married couples, and personnel nearing retirement. These efforts demonstrate the importance of proactive mental health management in reducing suicides. By prioritizing the well-being of its personnel, the CISF sets a benchmark for other CAPFs to emulate.
