The government has announced plans to enhance security at technical and scientific installations in border areas of Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Chandigarh, and northwest regions of Rajasthan and Gujarat. This includes vital Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) facilities in Srinagar and Leh.
Why the Security Upgrade?
Response to Prevailing Security Situation
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, overseeing Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and other key portfolios, convened a high-level meeting to review security preparedness of scientific facilities. The focus was on border and sensitive zones in Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Ladakh, and northwest India, prompted by the current security situation.
Key Institutions Under Review
Strategic Scientific Facilities
Dr. Jitendra Singh assessed security mechanisms at several critical institutions, including:
- CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM), Jammu
- CSIR-Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIO), Chandigarh
- CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI), Jalandhar
- CSIR-Institute of Microbial Technology (IMTECH), Chandigarh
- DBT-Biotech Research Innovation Council (BRIC) – National Agri-Food and Biomanufacturing Institute (NABI), Mohali
- Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) installations in Srinagar and other areas
- Earth Sciences Research Stations in Ladakh and surrounding zones
These institutions, under CSIR, DBT, IMD, and the Ministry of Earth Sciences, are vital for weather forecasting, disaster preparedness, and critical research.
Actions Directed by Dr. Jitendra Singh
Enhanced Security Protocols
All scientific institutions have been instructed to:
- Review and strengthen security protocols.
- Coordinate with district administrations for seamless protection.
- Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for emergency response.
- Postpone examinations and research proposal calls to avoid inconveniencing students and researchers.
The Director General of IMD was specifically directed to bolster security at IMD installations and data centers in Srinagar, Leh, and other key locations.
Internal Readiness and Community Engagement
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized internal security protocols and civil coordination. Institutions were directed to:
- Organize blood donation camps with staff, faculty, and student volunteers.
- Conduct sensitization programs on self-defense, emergency evacuation, and mock drills.
- Maintain constant liaison with local authorities to ensure preparedness.
The minister stated, “Our scientific institutions are the backbone of national resilience. At a time like this, we must ensure they are secure, well-coordinated, and prepared for every possible eventuality.”
Who Attended the Meeting?
Key Stakeholders
The meeting, held in a hybrid mode, included senior officials such as:
- Dr. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology (DST)
- Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary, Department of Biotechnology (DBT)
- Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General, CSIR & Secretary, DSIR
- Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General, IMD
- Senthil Pandian, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences
Directors of autonomous scientific institutes also participated, sharing situational reports and suggestions.
Why This Matters for Competitive Exams
Questions on national security, science and technology, and current affairs are common in exams like UPSC, SSC, Banking, and Railways. Understanding the security upgrades for scientific installations, the roles of CSIR, DBT, IMD, and the leadership of Dr. Jitendra Singh can help students excel in general awareness and essay sections.
Post Date: May 10, 2025