GRP Chiefs Conference Highlights Railway Security Reforms

Technology and Coordination Drive Focus at GRP Meet 2026

The 7th All India Conference of Government Railway Police (GRP) Chiefs concluded at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi , under the convenorship of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) . The conference was chaired by Director General, RPF, Sonali Mishra , with participation from Directors General of Police, Additional Directors General and senior GRP officers representing States and Union Territories. Senior officials of the Railway Board, including the Chairman-cum-CEO, were also present.

The deliberations centred on strengthening passenger safety and securing railway assets in the face of evolving security threats.

Addressing Expanding Security Risks

Indian Railways, characterised by its expansive network, high passenger density and open-access design, continues to face multifaceted vulnerabilities. Key concerns discussed included organised criminal activities, narcotics trafficking, vandalism, stone pelting and potential sabotage risks.

Officials stressed the need for an integrated security architecture combining intelligence inputs, technological surveillance, inter-agency coordination and community participation. Enhancing infrastructure and welfare facilities for GRP personnel was also highlighted to improve operational efficiency.

Technology-Driven Policing Framework

A major thrust of the conference was the adoption of advanced surveillance technologies. Participants reviewed the deployment of Facial Recognition System (FRS)-enabled CCTV cameras , AI-based video analytics and drone-assisted monitoring systems .

The RPF leadership emphasised that technology integration enables real-time identification of offenders, predictive threat assessment and quicker incident response. The discussions underlined that digital tools must complement ground-level policing strategies.

Strategy to Counter Drug Trafficking

Combating drug trafficking through railway corridors emerged as a priority agenda. A senior officer from the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) presented frameworks for intelligence-led interdiction, network mapping and enhanced coordination between enforcement agencies.

Important Facts for Exams

• GRP operates under State Police; RPF functions under the Ministry of Railways.

• FRS technology assists in real-time suspect identification via CCTV networks.

• NCB functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

• Indian Railways is among the world’s largest rail networks.

Strengthening Preparedness and Coordination

The conference recommended regular mock drills and scenario-based exercises to enhance first response, evacuation management, crowd control and crisis handling. Stone pelting and sabotage prevention strategies emphasised community outreach and deterrence mechanisms.

The meet reaffirmed the importance of synergy between State Police forces and RPF to build a resilient, technology-enabled railway security ecosystem.