The Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), have stressed the critical need for collaborative efforts to bolster India’s defence and homeland security capabilities.
At the recent Industry Interactive Conference & Mini Expo organized by PHDCCI with CAPFs, Sanjeev Kumar Jindal, CSS Additional Secretary (PM & DM) at the Ministry of Home Affairs, stressed the importance of indigenization and self-reliance in meeting the evolving security challenges. He underscored the necessity for industries to prioritize innovation and investment in Research, Design, and Development (R&D). According to Jindal, modernization efforts should extend beyond hardware acquisition, focusing on comprehensive approaches to enhance capabilities.
He informed, how the MHA’s approval of a significant modernization plan, coupled with substantial allocations, highlights the government’s commitment to enhancing the capabilities.
“Our primary focus on indigenization should prioritize quality, reliability, and cost factors, ensuring robust solutions for the evolving security landscape. The changing requirements of our paramilitary forces demand a holistic and forward-looking approach,” he said.
Neeraj Gupta, Managing Director of MKU Ltd, echoed the sentiment, applauding the government’s support for modernization initiatives. Gupta emphasized the industry’s readiness to collaborate with the CAPFs, offering tailored solutions and expertise to address security challenges effectively, training and skill development programs, cybersecurity and information technology, and fostering public-private partnerships (PPP).
He further suggested a comprehensive approach including assessment and requirement specification, industry engagement and partnership building, feedback mechanisms, and continuous improvement of equipment and gear.
Sonal V Misra, IPS, IG (Provision) Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), highlighted the diverse challenges faced by CAPFs, ranging from border security to countering extremism and riot control. She highlighted the importance of bridging the gap between industry solutions and the specific needs of security forces.
Rudra Shriram, Chair of the Defence & HLS Committee at PHDCCI, underscored the conference’s role as a platform for fostering collaboration and innovation. The event aims to establish frameworks for ongoing cooperation between industry stakeholders and security forces, essential for enhancing national security infrastructure.
Sangita Rao Achary, Scientist ‘G’ Director at DLIC Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), commended CAPF for their efforts in maintaining national sovereignty. She discussed DRDO’s contributions to CAPFs, ranging from small arms to cyber security, highlighting the importance of industry collaboration in advancing security capabilities.
In addition to the discussions at the conference, there were presentations and demonstrations of cutting-edge technologies aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the CAPFs. Industry representatives showcased advancements in areas such as surveillance systems, communication equipment, and non-lethal weapons, providing security forces with more effective tools for their operations.
The importance of continuous innovation and adaptation to emerging threats was reiterated throughout the event. As security challenges evolve, it is essential for both industry and security forces to remain agile and proactive in their approach. Collaboration between the two sectors plays a crucial role in ensuring that the latest technologies and strategies are employed to safeguard the nation.
