Security Upgrades Ordered at Key Science Facilities Along Western Border
New Delhi, May 11 – In response to the recent armed conflict with Pakistan, the Indian government has initiated heightened security measures at scientific and technical installations nationwide, with special emphasis on facilities near the western border, Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh announced.On Saturday, Singh conducted a thorough review of the security preparedness across all major scientific institutions and issued instructions to enhance protection protocols, particularly in the border states of Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.
Strategic Focus on Border Research Facilities
Among the installations to receive immediate security upgrades are the India Meteorological Department (IMD) sites in Srinagar and Leh, and the CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM) in Jammu, the minister confirmed via a post on X.Singh also evaluated preparedness at other prominent institutions, including:
- CSIR-Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIO), Chandigarh
- CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI), Jalandhar
- CSIR-Institute of Microbial Technology (IMTECH), Chandigarh
- DBT-Biotech Research Innovation Council (BRIC)
- National Agri-Food and Biomanufacturing Institute (NABI), Mohali
SOPs and Coordination with Local Authorities
All scientific bodies have been instructed to reassess and strengthen their security frameworks in view of the current situation. The Ministry of Science and Technology has also directed institutions to promptly notify their respective district administrations to ensure efficient coordination and protection.Additionally, Minister Singh has mandated the formulation and circulation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for emergency responses, to safeguard staff and facilitate a swift reaction in case of threats.
Postponement of Examinations and Research Deadlines
To protect students and researchers who may have returned to their home states amid rising tensions, Singh announced the postponement of all upcoming examinations and calls for research proposals until further notice.The move is part of a broader effort to maintain national security without compromising academic and scientific interests.
