CRPF looking to establish its own Air Wing

In a move that could be a precursor to the CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) raising its own air wing, the para-military force is hiring two helicopters for troop movement in Maoist-dominated areas in nine states. These helicopters will be under the sole command of CRPF for operational purposes. So far, the CRPF has been relying on either the Indian Air Force or the Border Security Force who have their own Air Wing for troop movement and lifting injured during operations.

Evacuation of injured personnel by a Border Security Force Helicopter ( Image Courtesy - bp.blogspot.com ) 

The CRPF, one of the biggest para-military force, has sent a proposal to the Ministry of Home Affairs seeking their nod to hire two choppers for operational purposes. "We have already forwarded a proposal to Ministry of Home Affairs for hiring two helicopters which will be maintained and controlled by the CRPF." CRPF DG Pranav Sahay told reporters at the 73rd annual press conference. Sahay was confident that the ministry will give a go ahead to their proposal.

There had been difference of opinion between the Air Force and the CRPF over emergency sorties. For instance, in a recent Jharkhand encounter, Air Force’s MI17 roped in for the evacuation of injured was delayed because of bad weather. Later, BSF’s Dhruv flew and airlifted injured personnel to a hospital in Ranchi. 

The CRPF believes that helichopters will give advantage to the force in thick jungles of Chattisgarh and Jharkhand in launching counter attack against the Maoists. Also, they will be able to save lives of injured personnel.

News Courtesy - deccanherald.com