CISF launches first women commando unit in MP’s Barwah:28 women begin eight-week tough training for airport and sensitive site security nationwide

For the first time in its history, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has launched a women’s commando unit. The training is taking place at the Regional Training Centre (RTC) in Barwah, Khargone district of Madhya Pradesh, where the once male-dominated grounds now echo with the determination of women cadets. The move aims to strengthen gender equality in security forces. These commandos will be deployed at airports and other sensitive locations across the country. The first batch of 28 women personnel, aged 25–30 years, is undergoing a special eight-week training programme at RTC Barwah. Day that starts before sunrise At 4 AM sharp, the women begin their day. By 5 AM, they are already on the training ground. Their daily schedule includes three tough sessions: 6–8 AM, 10:30 AM–1:30 PM, and 3:30–6 PM. The training involves physical drills, weapon handling, obstacle courses, jungle survival, rappelling, live fire practice and a 48-hour confidence-building exercise to test decision-making and teamwork. Meals, short rest periods, and even a campfire in the evening punctuate their day before lights out at 10 PM. See five pictures of the training… Voices of women commandos Commando Mansi, drenched in sweat but full of energy, said- ‘The excitement I felt watching commandos in films, I am now living in reality. This is truly an amazing life.’ She explained that they perform all drills seen in the armed forces—encounters in forests, river crossings, house raids, rope descents from high buildings, and firing while moving. Another cadet, Ayoshi, described the daily challenges- ‘Every day brings a difficult task, rope drill, trolling, rappelling, step shooting. Rain, heat, or cold, nothing matters. We must complete our task. We run 8–16 km carrying 16 kg rifles, just like the men, and often perform better.’ She added that they are also trained to fight even without weapons, ensuring readiness for every scenario. Special 28: The First Batch Senior Commandant SK Saraswat explained that this eight-week course started on 11 August and will finish on 4 October. The group has been named Special 28 (STF). This year, 100 women personnel will undergo commando training. The second batch will arrive in October and the third in December. Legacy of RTC Barwah The training centre is housed in the historic Dariya Mahal, once among Asia’s longest palaces, measuring 750 metres with 198 rooms. Originally started by the CRPF in 1968, it was taken over by CISF in 1985. So far, more than 100 male batches have trained here, producing over 10,000 STF commandos. Women are now joining this legacy for the first time. Women in CISF: The Bigger Picture Currently, CISF employs about 12,491 women, making up 8% of its total force. The target is to raise this to 10% by 2026, recruiting around 2,400 more women. The first all-women battalion, with 1,025 personnel, is also being planned. Recruitment and pay Women join CISF through an online application on the official website (cisfrectt.cisf.gov.in), followed by a series of tests: Physical Efficiency Test (PET), Physical Standards Test (PST), documentation, written exam, trade exam, and medical examination. Meeting height and weight standards is essential. On salary, there is no difference between men and women. Pay is based on rank under the 7th Pay Commission. For example, a Head Constable earns between ₹25,500 and ₹81,100 per month, plus allowances like Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), and Transport Allowance (TA). Towards a stronger force The launch of women commandos marks a significant step towards equal representation in India’s security forces. From 4 AM drills to mastering survival without weapons, these women are proving their grit. As Commandant Saraswat noted, the programme is designed not just to build physical strength but also mental toughness, confidence, and quick decision-making. With the Special 28 leading the way, the CISF is now preparing for a more inclusive and stronger future.