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THE CONTEXT: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has proposed integrating Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to interchange roles such as border guarding, internal security, and law and order. He argues that the CAPF has similar training, equipment, and command structures, which could lead to greater homogeneity and cost savings. However, this suggestion has sparked debate due to the specialized nature of each force’s operational environment and training.
ISSUES:
- Specialization and Operational Environment: Each CAPF specializes in specific roles and operates in distinct environments. For example, the Border Security Force (BSF) guards the India-Pakistan and India-Bangladesh borders, while the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) operates along the open borders with Nepal and Bhutan. The operational environments and required skills differ significantly, making role interchangeability challenging.
- Training and Equipment Differences: Each CAPF’s training and equipment are tailored to its specific role. For instance, the CRPF focuses on internal security and lacks training for border management. At the same time, the CISF is trained for industrial security and lacks medium weapons like mortars and MMGs necessary for border security. This specialization means that forces are not easily interchangeable without extensive retraining.
- Command and Control Challenges: Integrating command structures across forces with different operational focuses could create bureaucratic hurdles and slow decision-making. Each force has its own command and control systems, which are not easily unified.
- Inter-Force Rivalry and Identity: Each CAPF has its history, traditions, and culture. Merging them could lead to a loss of identity and morale among personnel. This inter-force rivalry and the preservation of unique identities are significant integration challenges.
- Logistics and Resource Allocation: Integrating forces could present logistical challenges, including unifying equipment, uniforms, and resource allocation across a more significant force. The logistical complexities of managing a unified force with diverse operational needs are substantial.
- Diplomatic and Local Integration Roles: Border Guarding Forces (BGFs) play a crucial role in local diplomacy through interactions with counterpart forces and other agencies. Frequent rotation of forces could hinder this integration and affect their ability to assist defense forces in wartime efforts. Familiarity with the local area and established relationships are vital for effective border management.
THE WAY FORWARD:
- Specialized Training and Modernization: Modernize the training curriculum and infrastructure of CAPFs to include the latest technologies and hybrid warfare techniques. Engage with ordnance factories and private manufacturers to ensure a steady supply of modern equipment. Include training on ICT, cyber security, and other advanced technologies in the training programs. Ensure that training agreements with suppliers include provisions for training on new equipment.
- Improved Working Conditions and Welfare: Enhance the working conditions and welfare of CAPF personnel to boost morale and reduce attrition. Provide better accommodation facilities near deployment areas so personnel can meet their families. Regularly conduct workshops on stress management and incorporate yoga and meditation into daily routines. Address medical facility inadequacies at border locations and ensure personnel have access to quality healthcare.
- Cadre Management and Promotion Policies: Implement the Joshi Committee’s recommendations on cadre management to ensure fair promotion opportunities within CAPFs. Limit the deputation of IPS officers to CAPFs to 25% and secure top positions are filled from within the respective CAPF cadres. Conduct regular cadre reviews to address stagnation in promotions and ensure timely promotions for deserving officers. Establish clear guidelines for appointing Director Generals to avoid delays and ensure continuity in leadership.
- Enhanced Coordination with State Police: Improve coordination between CAPFs and state police forces to handle internal security issues effectively. Establish joint training programs and exercises to foster better understanding and cooperation between CAPFs and state police. Create unified command structures in areas with significant security challenges, such as Jammu and Kashmir and Maoist-affected regions. Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for joint operations to ensure seamless collaboration during crises.
- Technological Integration and Vulnerability Mapping: Adopt advanced technologies and conduct vulnerability mapping to enhance border security and internal stability. Invest in surveillance technologies, such as drones and sensors, to monitor border areas effectively. Conduct regular vulnerability assessments to identify and address potential border security gaps. Implement technology-driven solutions, such as automated border control systems, to enhance the efficiency of border management.
THE CONCLUSION:
While integrating CAPF roles aims to streamline operations and reduce costs, it overlooks the critical need for border management and internal security specialization. Each force’s unique operational environments and training requirements make such integration impractical and potentially harmful to national security. Therefore, any move towards this integration requires thorough analysis and should not be implemented hastily.
UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:
Q.1 Analyze internal security threats and transborder crimes along Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Pakistan borders, including the Line of Control (LoC). Also, discuss the role played by various security forces in this regard. 2020
Q.2 Cross-border movement of insurgents is only one of the several security challenges facing the policing of the border in North-East India. Examine the various challenges currently emanating across the India-Myanmar border. Also, discuss the steps to counter the challenges. 2019
MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:
Q.1 Examine the concept of ‘One Border-One Force’ as the Group of Ministers recommended after the Kargil War. How does this concept contribute to India’s specialization and efficiency of border guarding forces?
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