India Establishes Bureau of Port Security to Enhance Maritime Security

On July 11, 2026, Union Minister Amit Shah announced that only CISF-trained personnel from licensed private security agencies will be deployed for port security in India. This decision follows a review meeting on the establishment of the Bureau of Port Security (BoPS), aimed at creating a robust security framework for ports. Key directives include the operationalization of the Port Security Training Institute, mandatory container scanning at ports, and trial runs of the security model at major ports like Visakhapatnam and Mundra. The BoPS will also focus on cybersecurity, overseeing the protection of IT infrastructure at ports. The initiative is part of a broader commitment to strengthen coastal security under the Modi government. The BoPS will operate as a statutory body under the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025, and will be responsible for regulatory and inspection functions related to maritime security.

Key Points: • Only CISF-trained personnel from licensed agencies will handle port security. • The Bureau of Port Security (BoPS) will oversee maritime security and cybersecurity. • Mandatory container scanning facilities will be implemented at all major ports.