Legacy security processes at entry points are set to be upgraded with facial-recognition-linked biometric entry passes, upgraded CCTV networks, Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and FASTag systems for vehicles
India’s Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has unveiled an ambitious programme to modernise airport security and improve passenger experience, officials announced following a workshop at its headquarters on 28 June.
Attended by senior representatives from 69 airports, the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, the Airports Authority of India, Delhi Police, immigration and elite forces, and leading airlines, the “airport sector functional workshop” focused on marrying technological innovation with streamlined security procedures .
Smarter, seamless travel biometric & AI technology
Legacy security processes at entry points are set to be upgraded with facial-recognition-linked biometric entry passes, upgraded CCTV networks, Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and FASTag systems for vehicles. The aim: faster, less intrusive screening at airport thresholds .
The CISF is standardising digitised standard‑operating‑procedures (SOPs) to enable quicker, coordinated responses to emerging threats . And by harnessing artificial intelligence for threat analytics, officials hope to anticipate risk before it materialises—a “mindful use of technology” approach that aims to preserve convenience while enhancing protection .
Unified training & national reach
Delegates emphasised “training synergy” across airport stakeholders: from CISF officers to airline staff, immigration personnel and ground crews. Plans include expanded Aviation Security Training Institutes (ASTIs) in tier-two and tier-three cities, ensuring uniformly high standards across India’s growing aviation network .With high-profile travel under growing threat, the CISF unveiled layered security protocols for VIPs and outlined plans for anti‑drone detection systems. At the same time, officials committed to making passenger grievance mechanisms—such as AirSewa—more prompt, human-centred and transparent .The CISF currently secures all 69 major civil airports in India, managing only passenger frisking and cabin baggage checks. Attempts to consolidate cargo and checked baggage screening under CISF control earlier this year signalled a broader push to centralise security operations .
This workshop signals a strategic shift: embracing advanced biometrics and AI, with one integrated goal—to deliver safer, smoother experiences for over 300 million domestic and international travellers using India’s airports annually.