Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), in collaboration with the elite 21 PARA Special Forces and other key stakeholders, carried out a high-intensity counter-terror mock exercise at Agartala Airport.
The simulated exercise recreated a hostage rescue scenario, mimicking a real-time terror situation. The drill aimed to test the response capability, crisis coordination, and operational efficiency of security forces in the event of an actual terrorist threat targeting civil aviation infrastructure.
Unified Strength for National Security
Operating under the theme “Unified Strength, Unmatched Readiness,” the mock drill brought together multiple agencies including the Tripura Police, Airport Authority of India (AAI), emergency medical services, and airport staff. The goal was to evaluate how well these entities could synchronize their efforts during a fast-evolving, high-risk crisis situation.
The exercise involved the infiltration of a mock terror group, the taking of hostages inside a restricted terminal zone, and the subsequent intervention by security forces. The 21 PARA (Special Forces) demonstrated advanced tactical maneuvers and rapid hostage extraction techniques, while the CISF’s Quick Response Team (QRT) secured the periphery and controlled civilian evacuation.
Enhancing Preparedness Through Simulation
Senior officials overseeing the drill emphasized the critical importance of regular scenario-based training exercises. “Such operations prepare us for real-time emergencies, improve our response timelines, and identify any operational or communication gaps,” said a CISF official.
Airport operations were partially suspended during the exercise to ensure safety and realism. Passengers were informed in advance, and signage was put up across terminals to indicate that a training activity was in progress.
Commitment to Aviation Security
With rising threats to civil aviation globally, such joint exercises are part of India’s broader strategy to fortify security at high-value public infrastructure. Agartala Airport, being a key entry point to the Northeast, was chosen as the strategic location for this drill.
The successful completion of this counter-terror mock drill marks another step toward strengthening inter-agency synergy, terror preparedness, and public safety assurance.
