Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) is a paramilitary force in India that plays a vital role in maintaining internal security, border security, and law enforcement throughout the country. CAPF, which stands for Central Armed Police Forces, comes under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and is made up of:
Border Security Force (BSF)
BSF guards India’s borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh. It checks cross-border crimes extended to smuggling, infiltration, and illegal migration.
Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
CRPF deals with internal security challenges such as counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency, and riot control. It is also essential to elections because it helps ensure their peaceful conduct.
Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)
The ITBP guards India’s frontiers with China, serving in high-altitude areas. It is trained for mountain warfare and disaster relief operations.
Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)
Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) guards India’s frontiers with Nepal and Bhutan. It is also helpful in assisting localities, gathering intelligence, and preventing trans-border crimes.
Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
CISF protects the country’s vital installations, from the airports, metro rail networks, nuclear plants, and industrial units. It also provides security for VIPs and government buildings.
Candidates aspiring to become officers in CAPF need to qualify for the CAPF Assistant Commandant (AC) exam, which is conducted annually by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).
How to Apply for the CAPF Exam?
The process of applying for the CAPF AC exam consists of the following steps:
Check Eligibility Criteria:
- Nationality: Should be an Indian citizen.
- Age Limit: 20-25 years (age relaxation for reserved categories).
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognised university.
- Medical Standards: As per UPSC requirements, height and weight and medical tests are required.
Online Registration:
- Log on to the official UPSC website ( https://www.upsc.gov.in )
- Complete the CAPF AC application form.
- Pay the application fee (₹200 for general candidates; SC/ST and female candidates are exempt).
Admit Card Download
UPSC publishes admit cards a few weeks before the examination.
Appear for the Exam
The exam is conducted offline at various centres throughout India.
CAPF Exam Pattern
The CAPF AC exam consists of three stages:
Written Examination:
The written test has two papers:
Paper 1: General Ability and Intelligence (250 Marks, 2 Hours)
- General Mental Ability
- General Science
- Current Events
- Indian Polity & Economy
- History & Geography of India
Paper 2: General Studies, Essay & Comprehension (200 Marks, 3 Hours)
- Part A: Essay Writing (80 Marks)- Topics related to security, geopolitics, and social issues.
- Part B: Comprehension & Language Skills (120 Marks)– Precise writing, comprehension, and communication skills.
Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Medical Examination:
Candidates who qualify for the written test must undergo PET:
100m Race: 16 sec (men), 18 sec (women)
800m Race: 3 min 45 sec (men), 4 min 45 sec (women)
Long Jump: 3.5m (men), 3m (women)
Shot Put: 4.5m (men)
A medical examination follows the PET to ensure candidates are fit for service.
Interview/ Personality Test:
Candidates who qualify for the PET and medical test are called for an interview (150 Marks). The interview tests leadership capacity, decision-making skills, and general awareness.
How to Prepare for the CAPF Exam?
Understand the Syllabus: Read the official syllabus and balance subjects according to weightage.
Develop a Study Plan: Prepare a practical timetable subject-wise and dedicate time for revision.
Strategy Paper-wise Preparation:
For Paper 1:
- So, NCERT books (Class 6-12) are to be referred to for fundamental knowledge.
- Current affairs: Daily reading of newspapers (The Hindu, The Indian Express)
- Read more practice questions on quantitative aptitude and logical reasoning.
- These may include taking mock tests and analysing the performance.
For Paper 2:
- Write about national security and social issues; practice essay.
- Improving the comprehension and grammar part of the language.
- Consult previous year’s papers to help you identify the questions that will be asked.
Physical Fitness Training:
PET is an elimination round. Therefore, the candidates must remain physically fit using running, strength, and endurance training.
How to Ace the CAPF Test?
Time management: Avoid last-minute cramming and maintain a disciplined study schedule.
Frequent Exercise: If Barley is physically fit, he will be able to clear the PET round and meet fitness standards.
Challenge Yourself with Coaching (If Necessary): Register to prepare in reputable coaching centres or virtual programs.
Stay Confident in Interview: Always enter the interview with an optimistic mindset and organise your answers well.
Training and Career Advancement
Post-selection, candidates are trained at respective training academies. The training includes:
- Strenuous and vigorous training for fitness
- Handling weapons and shooting practice
- A Guide to International Human Rights Law
- The things you are leaning towards are counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism tactics.
From starting as a Constable, you can work your way up to being one of the few top ranks in CAPF: Inspector, Assistant Commandant, Deputy Commandant, Commandant, and even higher.
Challenges Encountered by CAPF Personnel
Some of the challenges faced by CAPF personnel during their service are:
- Rough Working Environment: Border security forces are subjected to extreme temperatures, whether in the hot Thar desert of Rajasthan or the freezing heights of the Himalayas.
- Risks: This includes reactions by insurgents to counter insurgents, while the Assam Rifles also face terrorist groups.
- Stress and Work-Life Balance: Extended deployments and high-pressure missions affect personnel’s mental and physical well-being.
- Logistical and Resource Limitations: Modernised units remain deficient in equipment and infrastructure.
- Political and Bureaucratic Problems: Sometimes, the decision-making processes delay implementing the necessary policies for CAPF welfare and operational efficiency.
Future Prospects of CAPF
The role and responsibilities of CAPF are likely to increase with growing challenges to the nation’s security. The government is focusing on:
- Growing recruitment to fill manpower shortages
- Coordination between CAPF and state police forces
- Intensifying counter-terrorism and intelligence-sharing mechanisms
- Advocating welfare programs that help advance personnel welfare
Conclusion
With the continuous presence of CAPF in enabling security architecture, being a backbone support to ensure safety and security across India. Since the late 1980s, these forces have been transformed to better address current security challenges while applying technologies and tactics to improve their effectiveness. So, the people who protect the country, you know, really should be recognised and supported for their hard work and the tirelessness they put into it.
Being an officer is an attractive and royal career choice for those who wish to serve the country with pride and loyalty. It gives aspirants a sense of responsibility, purpose, and growth. There are plenty of challenges, but with modernisation and policy initiatives continuing, the CAPF will only strengthen with each passing day, making India a safe country in the coming decades.
