New Delhi: The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has taken a significant stride in bolstering aviation security by establishing an Internal Quality Control Unit (IQCU) for its Aviation Security Group (ASG) deployed at 68 airports across India.

The IQCU will play a pivotal role in implementing world-class security procedures and integrating advanced technology. This initiative aligns with the National Civil Aviation Security Quality Control Programme-2024 (NCASQCP), issued by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), and the Aircraft (Security) Rules-2023.

The IQCU will operate under the Aviation Security Control Centre (ASCC), inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on July 22, 2023.

Equipped with cutting-edge components such as the Incident Management Centre, Aviation Research and Data Centre and Centralised Communication Control Centre, the ASCC will collaborate with the IQCU to address evolving security challenges and strengthen the security framework at Indian airports. The system will also extend coverage to airports under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (UDAAN).

Led by a senior CISF Officer and a team of certified Aviation Security (AVSEC) instructors, national auditors and experienced personnel, the IQCU will focus on:

• Standardisation of procedures: Ensuring consistent security protocols across all airports through uniform training and evaluation methods.

• Technological advancement: Advocating the adoption of new technologies through field trials and alignment with international best practices.

• Internal audits: Conducting inspections and audits in compliance with ICAO/BCAS guidelines to assess security operations and recommend improvements.

• Quality control monitoring: Reviewing and updating security protocols to ensure compliance, technological efficacy, and operational efficiency.

• Feedback analysis: Collecting and analysing feedback from ASGs as per International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), BCAS, and NCASQCP standards to identify gaps and enhance performance.