What are the 7 types of CAPF?

Types of CAPFs

The Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) play an important role in ensuring the security and integrity of India. These forces are under the authority of the Ministry of Home Affairs and are responsible for various critical duties across the country. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in India:

Assam Rifles (AR)

• The Assam Rifles, established in 1835, started as a militia to protect British tea estates and settlements against tribal raids. Over time, they became known as the “right arm of the civil and left arm of the military.” They have served in conventional combat roles, peacekeeping missions, and maintaining peace in the North-Eastern areas of India.

Border Security Force (BSF)

• BSF, formed in 1965, guards India’s land borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh. It is the world’s largest border guarding force and is often termed as the “First Line of Defence” for Indian territories.

Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)

• CISF was established in 1969 to provide integrated security to public sector undertakings (PSUs). It has evolved into a premier security agency, safeguarding critical infrastructure installations like nuclear plants, airports, seaports, and heritage monuments.

Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)

• CRPF, founded in 1939, plays a vital role in maintaining public order, internal security, and law enforcement. It handles crowd control, counter-militancy operations, and disaster relief operations.

Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)

• ITBP, formed in 1962, guards the Indo-China border and operates in high-altitude areas. It is specialized in mountain warfare and is often the first responder in natural disasters.

National Security Guard (NSG)

• NSG, established in 1984, is a specialized counter-terrorism unit created after Operation Blue Star and Indira Gandhi’s assassination. It focuses on combating terrorist activities swiftly and effectively.

Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)

• SSB, formed in 1963, safeguards India’s borders and prevents trans-border crimes. It is responsible for promoting a sense of security among people living in border areas and carries out civic action programs.

These Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) are essential components of India’s security apparatus, playing critical roles in safeguarding the nation’s borders, maintaining public order, and combating terrorism and insurgency. They offer diverse career opportunities for individuals interested in serving the country in uniformed services. Each force has its unique responsibilities and operational areas, contributing significantly to national security and public safety.