NEW DELHI, September 19, 2026 – The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has successfully recovered more than 10,000 tonnes of illegal coal during specialized anti-theft operations conducted over the past two months in the mining regions of Jharkhand and West Bengal. This massive crackdown follows a recent authorization by the Union government, designating the paramilitary force to independently undertake search and seizure operations under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act of 1957. Operating under strict directives issued by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in July to ensure a ‘zero coal leakage’ policy, the CISF has intensified its efforts against the deeply entrenched, organized coal mafia operating across these vital energy belts. To fortify the security apparatus and prevent the pilferage of this precious fossil fuel, the force has strategically deployed approximately 12,000 personnel to actively guard 10 major coal units in the two neighbouring states.
Taking stock of these escalated operations, CISF Director General (DG) Praveer Ranjan concluded a comprehensive three-day operational review tour of the coal-producing regions on Friday. During his extensive visit, the DG meticulously reviewed on-ground security processes, interacted with the personnel guarding the treacherous terrains, and held strategic meetings with the senior management of key mining companies. His engagements included detailed discussions with officials from Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) in Dhanbad, Jharkhand, and Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) in Sheetalpur, Asansol, West Bengal. Reflecting the tangible impact of the heightened security posture since July, officials confirmed that alongside the recovery of coal worth crores of rupees, numerous vehicles have been impounded and several individuals linked to the pilferage networks have been apprehended. Expanding its operational footprint to counter ongoing threats, the CISF has also been formally entrusted with the security of the Amrapali open-cast mine, located in the Chatra district of Jharkhand.
In addition to evaluating tactical security measures, the CISF leadership is actively focusing on capacity building and modernizing its force to counter evolving threats in the mining sector. As part of his tour, DG Ranjan visited the Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad, to explore collaborative training initiatives. The force is planning to introduce specialized short-term courses at the institute focusing on advanced mining safety, specialized security protocols, and cybersecurity measures tailored specifically for CISF personnel. This strategic partnership with IIT (ISM) Dhanbad aims to equip the troops with cutting-edge knowledge and technological skills to more effectively manage the complex and hazardous security environment inherent to the country’s critical coalfields.
Published by True Roots Media Network