Women Personnel in the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs)

Syllabus: GS2/Gender Equality; Issues Relating to Development; Inclusive Growth

Context

Recently, the Minister of State for Home Affairs informed Lok Sabha that 4,138 women personnel are likely to be recruited in the CAPFs and Assam Rifles in 2025.

The journey of women in CAPFs began in the late 20th century, with the CRPF being the first to induct women in 1986. Initially, their roles were limited to support and administrative functions.
However, with changing societal norms and the recognition of women’s capabilities, their participation has expanded to combat and operational roles.

Women currently make up 4.4% of the 9.48 lakh-strong CAPFs and Assam Rifles.
- The number of women personnel in CAPFs had almost tripled in the 10 years from 2014 to 2024, while the percentage remained low.
The CISF has the highest representation of women at 7.02%, followed by SSB (4.43%), BSF (4.41%), ITBP (4.05%), Assam Rifles (4.01%), and CRPF (3.38%).
They are involved in border patrolling, anti-Naxal operations, and disaster response, among other duties.

Cultural and Social Barriers: Traditional gender roles and societal expectations often discourage women from pursuing careers in armed forces.
Recruitment and Retention Issues: Despite policy measures, the actual recruitment process has faced challenges, including fewer women applicants and high attrition rates.
Work Environment: The demanding nature of the job, including frequent transfers and postings in remote areas, can be less appealing to women, especially those with family responsibilities.
Infrastructure and Facilities: Inadequate facilities such as separate accommodations and sanitation can deter women from joining and staying in the forces.

Reservation Policies: In 2016, the government decided to reserve one-third of all constable-level positions in the CRPF and CISF for women, and 14-15% in the border guarding forces like BSF, SSB, and ITBP.
Recruitment Efforts: The number of women in CAPFs has significantly increased from 15,499 in 2014 to 42,190 in 2024.
- In 2025, an additional 4,138 women are expected to be recruited, with the BSF getting the largest share.
A parliamentary committee has recommended steps to encourage women to join CAPFs, including providing ‘soft postings’ and not subjecting them to extremely strenuous working conditions.
- The committee suggested exploring reservations for transgender individuals in CAPFs.

Continuous efforts, including better recruitment strategies, improved working conditions, and societal change, are essential to enhance women’s representation in these critical forces.

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