Home Minister, Rajnath Singh Wants Better & Foolproof Aviation Security

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh called for cooperation among all stakeholders to ensure foolproof aviation security.

"I advise all stakeholders in the aviation sector especially the BCAS and the CISF to infuse new technology for aviation security and ensure a judicious blend of trained human resources and modern security infrastructure", said Rajnath Singh in his inaugural address at the International Aviation Security Seminar in New Delhi.

The two day seminar, organised by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) in its Golden Jubilee Year, has the theme, "Global cooperation: Secure Aviation."

Underlining the terrorist threats to the aviation sector, Singh said, “Civil Aviation security continues to be an extremely challenging task as the sector remains an important target for terror outfits. The terrorists always look for opportunities where they can draw the maximum attention and media coverage."

"Use of innovative methods to launch attacks on aviation sector are already in plenty. The case of Shoe Bomber in 2001, use of liquid explosives in London (2006) and the case of Underwear Bomber in Amsterdam 2009 clearly indicate that the terrorists are pushing the limits and even their underpants to hit the aviation sector," he added.

Advocating global best practices in aviation security, he said, "We should adhere to stricter implementation of internationally agreed guidelines and norms. Introduction of updated, advanced technology in all airport processes would enhance our security capabilities. The Governments and aviation agencies have to increasingly think about newer methods to tackle conventional and unconventional threats."

Underlining that there is not the slightest space for relaxation in aviation security, the Union Home Minister said the strength of any chain is determined by the strength of its smallest unit. Therefore, the security of these smaller airports should never be ignored. 

"The security of these smaller airports should never be ignored.  The Brussels and Istanbul airport attacks have shown the vulnerability of airports especially from the city side and it highlights new threats to aviation facilities," he said.

Stating that India has witnessed massive expansion in the aviation sector, Singh said we have been constantly upgrading our security strategies and ensured its alignment with the changing threat perception.

He said the government is serious in terms of strengthening aviation security and regulatory oversight.