The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has reported a remarkable 40 percent decline in suicide rates among its personnel, a development the force attributes to a series of work-life balance measures introduced by its leadership. Data from the CISF indicates that suicide cases dropped to 9.87 per lakh in 2024, compared to 16.98 per lakh in 2023.
In 2024, the CISF recorded 15 suicides, a significant reduction from 25 in 2023, 26 in 2022, 21 in 2021, and 18 in 2020. The sharp decrease marks the first downward trend in the past five years and brings the suicide rate below the national average of 12.4 per lakh, recorded in 2022.
Effective Mental Health Programs And Stress Management
A senior CISF officer pointed out that this reduction reflects the positive impact of ongoing mental health initiatives and stress management programs. The force has implemented several measures, including an online grievance portal, a mental health study conducted in collaboration with AIIMS, and a revised transfer-posting policy aimed at reducing stress among personnel.
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“The encouraging trend highlights the CISF’s commitment to addressing mental health challenges within its ranks,” the officer stated. These initiatives have played a crucial role in promoting the well-being of the force’s personnel, contributing to the decline in suicides.
CISF’s Mental Health Efforts In Focus
The CISF, tasked with securing critical infrastructure such as airports, nuclear installations, power plants, and metro systems across India, has made significant strides in prioritizing the mental health of its personnel. The force has implemented measures to improve work-life balance and offer greater emotional support to its members.
While the CISF has seen progress, other Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) have faced similar challenges. In a recent report to Parliament, Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai revealed that 144 suicides were reported across CAPFs, including the National Security Guard (NSG) and Assam Rifles, in 2020. The number increased to 157 in 2021, declined slightly to 138 in 2022, then rose again to 157 in 2023. However, 2024 showed a decline, with 134 suicides recorded, bringing the total to 730 over five years.
Key Factors Identified In Mental Health Study
A recent study, conducted in coordination with the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), identified several factors contributing to suicides among CAPF personnel. These included poor emotional support due to nuclear families, marital issues, financial stress, critical illnesses, and the inability to share emotions. The study also highlighted the impact of the rapid transmission of negative news through smartphones and high familial expectations.
The CISF’s success in reducing suicide rates is being hailed as a positive outcome of its proactive approach to addressing mental health concerns and improving the overall well-being of its personnel. With these measures in place, the force hopes to continue this positive trend in the coming years.
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