Facial recognition technology is set to play a crucial role in enhancing security at India's major airports. Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) announced plans to link cameras installed at six key airports to a new data fusion centre in Delhi,as stated by CISF Director General Praveer Ranjan on Monday,June 22, 2026.
The integration will involve not only the airports—specifically those in Delhi,Mumbai,Bengaluru, Hyderabad,Chennai, and Kolkata—but also approximately 150,000 surveillance cameras monitoring vital installations nationwide. This initiative aims to bolster real-time monitoring and assist law enforcement agencies in identifying suspects more effectively.
Ranjan emphasized the importance of the National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) in this context. NATGRID serves as a secure platform for police and investigative bodies, granting them access to both government and private databases in real-time . The Union Home Ministry has encouraged states to utilize this platform extensively,which includes data on driving licenses, vehicle registrations, Aadhaar details, airline information, bank records,and even social media activity.
During the foundation-laying ceremony for the new CISF headquarters at the CGO complex in Delhi,Ranjan noted that only 30% of airport security measures are visible to the public, highlighting the need for advanced technology to enhance safety.
In a related development,Minister of State for Home Bandi Sanjay Kumar addressed the gathering, announcing implementation of a compassionate disability policy since June 2025. This policy ensures that personnel injured in line of duty are not forced into retirement,allowing them to continue serving with dignity and receive full benefits.
Ranjan also discussed the establishment of a Regional Training Centre in Behror,Rajasthan,which will focus on drone and anti-drone technology. The CISF has been designated as the lead agency for protecting critical infrastructure from rogue drone threats. Additionally,specialized cybersecurity teams are being trained in collaboration with top institutions to address emerging challenges.
Highlighting efforts toward gender empowerment,Ranjan announced the Ministry's approval for the formation of first all-women CISF Reserve Battalion in Nuh, Haryana, comprising 1,024 personnel. This initiative marks a significant step in promoting women's participation within the force.
