The Indian government is contemplating the creation of a Unified Security Force for all airports in the country along the lines of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) of the U.S. The proposal received approval from Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January 2023. The concept aims to expand the scope of the TSA-like force to include security for sea and land ports, as well as roads and highways. In this essay, we will discuss the need and significance of a unified security agency for aviation and other transportation sectors, the global status, and the challenges and the way ahead.
Indian Scenario
The proposal comes at a time when India is projected to be the third-largest aviation market in the world by 2024 and is already the third-largest domestic aviation market after the U.S. and China. It is also the world’s fastest-growing market at 9%, though it accounts for only 2% of the global passenger traffic. The total number of airports in the country is targeted to grow from the current 148 to 220 by 2025, and airlines have more than 1,000 aircraft on order.
The Need and Significance
Today, coordination with a multitude of agencies becomes difficult. Therefore, in a fast-growing aviation market, there is a need for a robust system. A unified security agency would be beneficial not only for aviation but also shipping, metro, road, rail, and land and sea ports. The move would help integrate policy, regulations, and implementation by bringing them under one body.
Global Status
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) was created in the wake of 9/11 in the U.S. to strengthen the security of the nation’s transportation systems while ensuring freedom of movement for people and commerce. It has since become the primary security agency for aviation in the country, responsible for all aspects of airport security screening, including the screening of passengers, checked and carry-on baggage, and airport personnel.
Challenges
Airports will have to procure security infrastructure and have often cited financial constraints and delayed upgradation. The proposal for a unified agency means it will also be tasked with buying security infrastructure such as x-ray machines and full-body scanners.
Way Ahead
The exact contours of the proposal are yet to be finalized, and the move could result in a merger of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) with the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). The government must deliberate over the move to a TSA-based concept across all airports in the next three to four years. Once the TSA is a reality, the immigration functions will also fall under it. The Bureau of Immigration, which works under the Intelligence Bureau of the Union Home Ministry, is currently responsible for immigration checks at airports, sea ports, and land borders.
Important Points:
- Indian government is considering the creation of a Unified Security Force for all airports in the country similar to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) of the U.S. 🇮🇳 ✈️
- The concept received approval from Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January 2023. 🙌🏼
- The proposal includes expanding the scope of an Indian TSA-like force to include security for sea and land ports, as well as roads and highways. 🌊 🛣️
- The move is necessary due to India’s fast-growing aviation market and the need for a robust security system. 💪🏼
- The total number of airports in the country is set to grow from 148 to 220 by 2025, and airlines have more than 1,000 aircraft on order. 📈 ✈️
- A unified security agency would help integrate policy, regulations, and implementation under one body. 🤝
- The proposal poses challenges for airports in procuring security infrastructure due to financial constraints and delayed upgradation. 💰 ⏳
- The exact details of the proposal are yet to be finalized, and it could result in a merger of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) with the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). 🤔
- The move towards a TSA-based concept is expected to happen in the next three to four years. ⏰
- Once the TSA becomes a reality, the immigration functions will also fall under its jurisdiction. 🛃
Why In News
The Indian government is exploring the possibility of establishing a Unified Security Force for all airports in the country modeled after the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) of the United States, which would also include the integration of immigration and customs.
MCQs about Unified Security Force for Airports in India
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Which government agency is currently responsible for immigration checks at airports, sea ports, and land borders in India?
A. Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
B. Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
C. Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS)
D. Bureau of Immigration
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What is the primary reason behind the Indian government’s proposal to establish a Unified Security Force for all airports in the country?
A. To improve the overall efficiency of airport operations
B. To increase revenue generated by the aviation industry
C. To enhance the security of the nation’s transportation systems
D. To reduce the number of government agencies involved in airport security
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What is the biggest challenge faced by airports in India regarding the proposal for a Unified Security Force?
A. Delays in implementing the proposal
B. Difficulties in coordinating with multiple agencies
C. Financial constraints in procuring security infrastructure
D. Resistance from airlines and other stakeholders
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