The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has been temporarily authorised to oversee the security of cargo operations at all civil airports across the country.
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS)‘s decision will also allow CISF to manage the In-line Hold Baggage Screening Systems (ILHBSS).
According to an official communiqué, the decision aims to introduce an additional layer of security checks to enhance aviation security.
Notably, the move, effective from May 9 until May 18, 2025, will see CISF personnel conduct random checks, oversee access control, and monitor airport security staff.
The directive comes after the recent Pahalgam attack and the subsequent security scenario in the country.
“CISF has responded immediately and resumed oversight over cargo and baggage operations,” the communiqué said.
“All the airports under cover of CISF have already implemented the new strengthened system.”
Before this directive, CISF’s deployment as the primary aviation security force did not explicitly extend to the direct security and screening of cargo operations and the ILHBSS.