Hindu Editorial Analysis : 5-January-2024
India’s Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) play a crucial role in maintaining internal security, law and order, and defending the nation’s borders. Recently, there have been notable issues concerning their functioning and leadership.
Overview of CAPFs:
CAPFs consist of seven forces, each serving distinct roles, from internal security to border protection. Notable forces include CRPF, CISF, NSG, BSF, ITBP, SSB, and AR. These forces operate under different circumstances, addressing specific threats and challenges.
Emerging Issues:
- Leadership Selection:
- Resentment arises when leaders lacking CAPF experience are appointed.
- Instances of inexperienced officers heading forces continue, causing dissatisfaction.
- Delay in Postings:
- Senior officers express discontent due to delays in appointing successors.
- Instances of top positions remaining vacant for extended periods create operational gaps.
- Operational Challenges:
- CAPFs grapple with insurgency, terrorism, and left-wing extremism.
- Continuous deployment affects training, and collaboration with state police is essential.
- Logistical and Welfare Issues:
- Inadequate infrastructure hampers operational capabilities.
- Ensuring proper living conditions is crucial for maintaining high morale.
- Coordination with State Police:
- Collaborative efforts and coordination are vital.
- Differences in jurisdiction, communication gaps, and conflicting strategies pose challenges.
Government Initiatives:
The Government of India has undertaken several measures to address these challenges:
- Increased Manpower: Efforts to boost personnel, including a focus on women empowerment.
- Budget Allocation: A significant budget of Rs 94,665 crore in 2023-24 demonstrates commitment.
- Modernization Plan: A comprehensive Modernization Plan-IV with a financial outlay of Rs. 1523 crore has been approved until 31.03.2026.
- Women’s Representation: A decision in 2016 reserved 33% posts at the Constable level for women in CRPF and CISF, and 14-15% in border guarding forces.
Why In News
Recently, issues related to the functioning of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) have been highlighted, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive reforms and enhanced coordination among various security agencies to address these concerns effectively.
MCQs about Transforming India’s CAPFs
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What is the primary role of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) among the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs)?
A. Border protection against China
B. Countering terrorism and insurgency
C. Safeguarding vital installations like airports
D. Assisting state police in maintaining law and order
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Which force is responsible for protecting vital installations such as airports within the CAPFs?
A. Border Security Force (BSF)
B. Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
C. Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)
D. Assam Rifles (AR)
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What is a significant challenge faced by CAPFs in terms of leadership?
A. Frequent transfers of senior officers
B. Delay in appointing successors to top positions
C. Lack of coordination with state police
D. Insufficient budget allocation
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In addressing welfare concerns, what step has the government taken to enhance women’s representation in CAPFs?
A. Reserving 25% posts for women at all levels
B. Implementing a gender-neutral recruitment policy
C. Reserving 33% posts at Constable level in CRPF and CISF for women
D. Introducing a special welfare fund for female personnel
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