The Government of India has significantly strengthened the operational capabilities of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) through Modernisation Plan-IV, a Central Sector Scheme aimed at equipping the forces with advanced weapons, surveillance systems, mobility platforms and modern operational infrastructure. The details were shared by Minister of State for Home Affairs Shri Nityanand Rai in a written reply in the Lok Sabha on 4 August 2026.
Under the modernisation programme, the CAPFs have been equipped with a wide range of modern weapon systems and combat equipment, including assault rifles, Glock pistols integrated with Corner Shot systems, modern ammunition and weapon accessories, enhancing the firepower and combat effectiveness of personnel deployed across diverse operational environments.
To improve surveillance and intelligence-gathering capabilities, the forces have inducted thermal imagers, passive night vision goggles, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), drones, Automatic Fire Detection and Suppression Systems, along with other advanced electronic surveillance equipment. These technologies have significantly enhanced situational awareness during border guarding, counter-insurgency and internal security operations.
The Government has also focused on upgrading the communication and information technology infrastructure of the CAPFs by providing secure communication equipment, Hyper-Converged Infrastructure (HCI) servers, networking infrastructure, command-and-control systems and digital operational platforms, enabling faster and more secure information sharing during operations.
Modernisation efforts have further strengthened mobility through the induction of Medium Bullet Proof Vehicles, Light Bullet Proof Vehicles, Mine Protected Vehicles, Wheel Armoured Platforms, Emergency Rescue Fire Tenders and Rubberised Inflatable Boats, improving the forces’ ability to operate effectively across varied terrains and operational scenarios.
To enhance troop safety, the CAPFs have received improved force protection equipment, including bullet-resistant jackets, ballistic helmets, protective shields and other personal protective equipment, while specialised operational capabilities have been upgraded through the induction of Counter-IED and bomb disposal equipment, rescue and disaster response systems and specialised tactical gear.
Infrastructure development remains another major focus area under Modernisation Plan-IV. Investments have been made in modern training facilities, communication networks, logistics support systems, ICT infrastructure, maintenance facilities and operational infrastructure to support border management and internal security responsibilities.
According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, the modernisation initiatives have led to a significant improvement in the operational capability of the CAPFs by enhancing mobility, surveillance, situational awareness, intelligence gathering, force protection and response capability. These upgrades have strengthened the forces’ effectiveness in border guarding, counter-insurgency operations, anti-Naxal missions and other internal security operations, enabling them to better address evolving security challenges.
During the current financial year 2026–27 (up to 26 July 2026), allocations under Modernisation Plan-IV include ₹117.01 crore for the CRPF, ₹88.98 crore for the Assam Rifles, ₹38.40 crore for the BSF, ₹38.03 crore for the CISF, ₹39.52 crore for the SSB, ₹32.71 crore for the NSG and ₹8.80 crore for the ITBP. Since the launch of the scheme, the Government has earmarked a total financial outlay of ₹1,523 crore for the modernisation of the CAPFs.
The continued implementation of Modernisation Plan-IV reflects the Government’s commitment to equipping India’s Central Armed Police Forces with cutting-edge technology, modern infrastructure and advanced operational capabilities, ensuring they remain prepared to tackle emerging threats and safeguard national security effectively.
