Central Reserve Police Force
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is India’s largest Central Armed Police Force and plays a pivotal role in maintaining law and order and counter-insurgency operations across the country. With over 3 lakh personnel . The CRPF is a critical element In India’s internal security apparatus.
Origins and Evolution
The CRPF was established as the Crown Representative’s Police in 1939. Post-independence, it was rechristened as the Central Reserve Police Force through an act of the Indian Parliament in 1949. Over the years, the CRPF’s mandate has expanded, and it has evolved into a versatile force tackling a wide range of security challenges.
Roles and Responsibilities
The primary role of the CRPF is to aid the state and union territories in maintaining law and order in situations of unrest or insurgency. They are often deployed in areas affected by Naxalism and in conflict- prone regions such as Jammu and Kashmir. The CRPF also plays a vital role in conducting fair and peaceful elections in disturbed areas.
They are often deployed to ensure the secure conduct of elections, even in the most remote and volatile parts of the country.
Another critical responsibility of the CRPF is VIP security. It includes the protection of high-risk individuals, including ministers, bureaucrats, and visiting dignitaries.
The CRPF’s specialized unit, the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA), is specifically trained for guerrilla warfare, and the Rapid Action Force (RAF) is an elite unit specialized in riot control and crowd management.
Training and Organization
Training for the CRPF personnel is provided at various institutions across the country, designed to enhance their physical capabilities, discipline, and professional skills. Specialized training is also provided based on the specific roles they are expected to fulfill.
The CRPF is headed by a Director-General, an Indian Police Service officer of the rank of Director General of Police. The force is divided into various battalions, each led by a commandant, and further divided into companies, platoons, and sections.
The recruitment and selection process for the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is rigorous and methodical, designed to select the most suitable candidates for various roles within the force.
Here is a general overview of the process:
1. Notification of Vacancies:
The recruitment process commences when the CRPF issues a notification for various vacancies. This notification includes details about the posts, eligibility criteria, selection process, and instructions for applying.
2 Application:
Interested candidates are required to submit an application, either online or offline, depending on the instructions provided in the recruitment notification.
3. Physical Standards Test (PST) and Physical Efficiency Test (PET):
The first stage of selection involves a Physical Standards Test, where the candidates’ physical attributes
(like height, chest measurements for men) are checked. After this, candidates are required to undergo a Physical Efficiency Test, which includes events like running, long jump, high jump, and shot put.
4. Written Examination:
Candidates who pass the PST and PET are then eligible to appear for the written examination. The test generally includes sections on General Awareness, Reasoning, Numerical Ability, and specific subjects
depending on the post applied for.
5. Medical Examination:
Candidates who clear the written test are called for a detailed Medical Examination. This is to ensure that the candidates are medically fit as per the standards laid down by the CRPF.
6. Final Selection:
Final selection is based on the performance in the PET, written test, and medical exam. In addition, the candidates’ character and antecedents are verified. After these steps, the selected candidates are then sent for training.
7. Training:
The selected candidates undergo rigorous training at one of the CRPF’s training centers. The training period can vary depending on the specific role the recruits will be fulfilling. It's important to note that the above process can slightly vary depending on the specific recruitment drive and the position for which the recruitment is being done.
The most accurate and updated
information can be found in the recruitment notification published by the CRPF. Training is an essential part of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), designed to equip the personnel with the necessary skills and knowledge required for their duties.
The CRPF has several training institutions across the country, with the main ones being:
1. CRPF Academy, Kadarpur, Gurugram:
This is the premier institution for training of Gazetted Officers of the CRPF. The Academy provides basic and in-service training to these officers. It also conducts research and analysis of various internal
security issues.
2. Recruit Training Centres:
The Recruit Training Centres are where the initial training of newly recruited constables takes place. They are imparted basic knowledge and skills related to internal security, law and order, counter-insurgency, etc. There are multiple such centres across the country.
3. Group Centres:
Group centres provide in-service training to personnel, upgradation of skills, physical fitness training, and much more. There are numerous group centres located across the country.
4. Counter Insurgency and Anti-Terrorism (CIAT) Schools:
These schools, located in various parts of the country, provide specialized training to CRPF personnel on counter-insurgency and anti-terrorism operations.
Training Regimen:
The training for CRPF personnel is rigorous and comprehensive, preparing them for a wide range of scenarios. The training regimen includes:
Physical Training:
Physical fitness is a crucial aspect of the training, which includes activities like drill, yoga, swimming, endurance running, and obstacle crossing.
Weapons Training:
Personnel are trained in handling various types of firearms, as well as unarmed combat.
Tactical Training:
This includes counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism tactics, patrolling, cordon and search operations, etc.
Legal and Procedural Training:
Training on legal provisions related to police work, human rights, rules of engagement, etc.
Soft Skills Training:
Communication skills, stress management, interaction with the public, etc., are also part of the training.
The exact duration and content of the training can vary depending on the specific role and rank of the personnel. The aim of the training is not just to create physically fit and tactically competent personnel,
but also individuals who respect human rights and uphold the values of the Constitution.
A Legacy of Outstanding Achievements
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), India’s premier central police force, has an illustrious history filled with notable achievements. Their contributions towards maintaining peace and security in the country have earned them widespread recognition and respect.
1) Counter-Insurgency Operations
One of the primary achievements of the CRPF is its successful operations against insurgencies. The force has been instrumental in counter-insurgency operations in various parts of the country, including Jammu and Kashmir, and the Maoist-affected regions in Central and Eastern India. The CRPF's specialized unit, the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA), has undertaken several
successful operations, leading to the neutralization of numerous threats.
2)Election Duty
The CRPF has played a significant role in ensuring the peaceful conduct of elections in regions experiencing socio-political unrest. Their presence during elections has helped maintain law and order, enabling citizens to exercise their democratic rights without fears.
3) Disaster Management
The CRPF has been actively involved in various disaster relief operations across the country. During natural disasters like floods, earthquakes, and cyclones, CRPF personnel have provided rescue and relief
operations, earning praise for their bravery and commitment.
4)VIP Security
The CRPF’s achievements in VIP security are commendable. They have successfully protected numerous high-risk individuals, including ministers, bureaucrats, and visiting dignitaries, ensuring their safety despite potential threats.
5) Awards and Honors
Over the years, CRPF personnel have been the recipients of numerous awards and honors for their courage, bravery, and service. These include the highest peacetime gallantry awards like the Ashok
Chakra and the Kirti Chakra, among others.
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has been involved in several major operations throughout its history due to its central role in maintaining internal security in India.
Here are a few notable operations:
1. Operation Steeplechase (1971):
This was a major counter-insurgency operation carried out by the Indian Army and CRPF in the 1970s against Naxalites in West Bengal. The operation was successful in significantly reducing the activities of
the Naxalites in the region.
2. Anti-Naxal Operations:
The CRPF, especially the COBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action) unit, is extensively involved in anti-Naxal operations in the “Red Corridor” that spans several states including Chhattisgarh,
Jharkhand, and Bihar. These ongoing operations aim to curb Naxalite-Maoist insurgency in these regions.
3. Operations in Jammu and Kashmir:
The CRPF has been actively involved in counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir. They work to maintain law and order, protect innocent civilians, and neutralize terrorist threats in the region.
4. Operation Green Hunt:
This was a large-scale operation launched in 2009 against the Naxalites in the states of Chhattisgarh and West Bengal. CRPF’s COBRA units were extensively involved in this operation.
5. North East Insurgency Operations:
CRPF has been deployed in various parts of the Northeast to counter the insurgencies. They have been involved in operations against various insurgent groups in the region.
6. Anti-Terror Operations:
Post the 2001 Indian Parliament attack, the CRPF was given a mandate to guard important sites in Delhi, and thus, they’ve been engaged in maintaining security in the capital city. Please note that due to the classified nature of many military and paramilitary operations, complete
details may not always be available or disclosed to the public. As such, the list provided includes operations that are publicly known.
Conclusion
The Central Reserve Police Force represents a beacon of hope and security in regions of India that grapple with socio-political unrest and conflict. With its wide-ranging roles, from maintaining law and order to counter-insurgency, the CRPF continues to uphold its motto: “Service and Loyalty”. By consistently demonstrating courage, dedication, and professionalism, the CRPF remains a cornerstone of India’s internal security framework