Raigarh, Dec 11, 2025: The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has formally taken over security responsibilities at the NTPC Talaipalli Coal Mining Project in Chhattisgarh’s Raigarh district, marking the 362nd vital installation under its protective cover. The move follows a security review conducted earlier this year and was directed by the Union Home Ministry.

As part of the initial deployment, 101 of the 265 sanctioned armed CISF commandos have taken charge, ensuring a round-the-clock security presence at the mine. The Talaipalli project, supplying coal to the Lara Super Thermal Power Plant, is a key component of India’s energy infrastructure, contributing significantly to power availability across multiple states and supporting the nation’s energy self-reliance agenda.

Strengthening Security in a High-Risk Zone

According to a CISF official, the region’s history of left-wing extremism, combined with the scale and value of the mining operations, made a robust security framework necessary. “The induction of CISF at Talaipalli provides specialised, 24×7 security capable of safeguarding personnel, equipment, and high-value assets, preventing illegal mining and pilferage, and ensuring secure movement of critical material,” the officer said.

The takeover also aims to enhance coordination with district authorities and bolster the overall security ecosystem for surrounding communities. With plans to expand operations at Talaipalli, the CISF intends to gradually deploy additional personnel within the mines.

Significance of Talaipalli Mine

The Talaipalli coal mine is a crucial link in India’s energy value chain. With production already in the double-digit million tonnes annually, the mine’s uninterrupted functioning is critical for grid stability and industrial growth. NTPC officials handed over the mine’s security keys to the CISF on Thursday, formalising the transfer of responsibility.

CISF’s Role in Protecting Critical Infrastructure

The CISF is tasked with protecting India’s vital installations, including Parliament House, airports, oil refineries, hydropower projects, and other strategic assets. The force has previously demonstrated operational effectiveness, such as at the Uri hydropower plant near the Indo-Pak border, where an attempted attack by Pakistan was foiled by 19 CISF personnel during Operation Sindoor. These personnel were awarded the Director General’s Disc for their valor last month.

The deployment at Talaipalli underlines the government’s focus on safeguarding energy infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted coal supply, and maintaining stability in India’s power sector.