Hyderabad: For the first time in India, 15 specially trained women commandos, part of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), have been deployed at Shamshabad airport here, marking a major step in both strengthening airport security and promoting women’s empowerment.
The women commandos come from various states and bring diverse experience to the force. They are part of a larger group of women being trained for such roles, all aged between 20 and 30 years. Among the deployed women commandos, the youngest is just 23.
“Currently, nine women are on active duty, working in three shifts for eight hours each with three commandos per shift. This is part of a trial phase and more women are undergoing training. Once they complete the course, the number of women per shift may increase to five or six,” a CISF official told Deccan Chronicle.
All women commandos have completed a year-long basic police training and an eight-week commando course. After that, they underwent airport specific training that focused on handling emergencies in crowded areas, using weapons in confined spaces and responding quickly to threats, all while keeping passengers safe.
Most of them have been posted in the food court and check-in areas, which are more vulnerable and see a large presence of passengers. The inner terminal area is already highly secured.
As part of their endurance drills, the women were trained to climb the 21-floor air traffic control (ATC) tower without lifts, preparing them for high stress scenarios where speed and stamina are critical.
Currently, only the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) has deployed these specially trained women. Though there were mentions of a similar move at Bengaluru airport earlier, officials clarified that they could not confirm details for other locations.
Officials say this move is not just about improving security, but also a clear message that women can take on any tough role with strength, skill and confidence.
