In a significant move, the Government of India has given the green light to establish two Signal Battalion headquarters for the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), marking the first expansion in this capacity since 1988. The decision, based on a comprehensive proposal, aims to strengthen CRPF operations in the North-East, specifically in Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), after a well-drafted proposal by CRPF, forwarded the recommendation to the Ministry of Finance. The proposal outlines the creation of two Signal Battalion headquarters and the augmentation of existing five Signal Battalion Headquarters, involving the creation of 832 posts across various ranks. Among these, 416 posts are exclusively allocated for the new Signal Battalion Headquarters, with an additional 202 posts for enhancement of the existing five Signal Battalions. This totals to 1,034 new posts, showcasing a substantial commitment to bolstering the force.
The impending formal order from the MHA follows the recent approval of a second major proposal within the past two months, which will boost the CRPF’s capabilities. Director General SL Thaosen, who retires on November 30, presided over a tenure marked by the approval of significant proposals, including the recent clearance for 659 posts in the intelligence grid in October.
The MHA has issued an official communication to convey the “sanction of the competent authority for creation of 2 Signal Battalion Headquarters and augmentation of existing 5 Signal Battalion Head quarters in CRPF by creation of 832 posts in various ranks, 416 posts per Signal Battalion exclusively for 2 new Signal Battalion HQrs [Ranchi & Khatkhati] and creation of additional 202 posts for augmentation of 05 existing Signal Battalions (Net Creation 1034 posts)”.
The current strength of Signal Battalions was sanctioned between 1965 and 1988, with no subsequent rise. As of now, the CRPF comprises 246 Battalions and 187 establishments. The CRPF Signal Battalion plays a crucial role in providing communication support to CRPF units, ensuring effective coordination during operations and emergency situations.
A top-level official highlighted the practical challenges faced due to the non-creation of Signal Battalions, leading to Signal’s existing strength exceeding 2,600. The official emphasized the difficulty for Commanding Officers to supervise, monitor, and control Signal Coys/Platoons effectively. The proposed headquarters are strategically positioned to evenly cater to Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh (on operational requirements), Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh, enhancing operational efficiency across a vast geographical expanse.
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