India unifies the security of its 250 ports under the command of the CISF to meet global standards

 

 

Strategic unification for the protection of foreign trade in India

 

The government India has officially designated the Fuerza Central de Seguridad Industrial (CISF) as the Organización de Seguridad Reconocida (RSO) to oversee more than 250 seaports. This decision seeks to standardize security protocols under the International Code of Security for Ships and Port Facilities (ISPS) through a new hybrid operating model.

 

The regulations, promoted by Ministerio de Puertos, Envíos y Vías Navegables The new coastal security plan, enacted on November 18, 2025, addresses the critical need to eliminate fragmentation in coastal security. Until now, protection relied on a disparate mix of state police and private agencies, creating operational gaps. Under the new plan, the CISF It will assume direct control of vital functions such as access control, cargo scanning, and active patrolling.

 

Implementation of the hybrid model and deployment phases

 

The action plan establishes a phased implementation. In the first phase, the CISF will take command in 80 key ports dedicated to export and import (EXIM)Subsequently, coverage will be extended to the rest of the facilities. The system is based on a hybrid model designed to optimize resources:

 

• Core Functions: La CISF will perform high-risk and security-critical tasks.
• Auxiliary Functions: Non-essential tasks, such as traffic management or secondary gate control, will be delegated to local police or private agencies under supervision.
• Training: A specialized institute will be established for the state force to train private personnel.

 

Furthermore, the CISF will be responsible for carrying out the Port Facility Security Assessments (PFSA) and to develop the Security Plans (PFSP), ensuring compliance with post-9/11 international standards.

 

Key data on the affected port infrastructure

 

The following details the relevant figures regarding the scope of this national security measure:

 

Concept	Figure / Data
Total number of ports under the new framework	+250 ports (major and minor)
Ports with active cargo handling	65
EXIM Ports (Phase 1)	80
Major ports now under control CISF	13
Date of the ministerial order	November 18th 2025

 

The restructuring has been validated by senior Indian security officials. Ajay Dahiya, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the CISFHe explained the nature of the transition: "The appointment of Dahiya He added that "All agencies will work together to strengthen our ports", confirming that auxiliary tasks can be assumed by external entities without compromising the core of security.

 

This strategic decision stems from the recommendations of a joint committee formed in September 2024 between the CISF and the Directorio General de EnvíosFurthermore, it aligns with the national security guidelines promoted by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Minister of the Interior Amit Shah to mitigate threats such as maritime terrorism, drug trafficking and cyberattacksAccording to a recent report by Maritime FairtradeThis unification is key to the maritime ambitions of India.

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about port security in India

 

What is the hybrid security model that will be implemented? CISF?
It is a system where the CISF It exclusively assumes the "core" (critical) security functions, while delegating auxiliary or non-essential tasks, such as traffic management, to the state police or private security.

Why has the security system been changed in Indian ports?

To address the fragmentation and lack of previous standardization, the goal is to rigorously comply with the International Security Protection Code (ISPS Code) and close vulnerabilities to threats such as terrorism and drug trafficking.

How many ports will be under the supervision of the CISF?
La CISF It will act as a Recognized Security Organization (RSO) for more than 250 seaports in total, beginning its priority deployment in 80 international traffic ports (EXIM).