CRPF gets bullet proof vests, vehicles to guard J&K streets

NEW DELHI: In one of its biggest procurements in recent times, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), engaged in security and counter-terrorism operations in Jammu & Kashmir, is purchasing 183 light bulletproof vehicles and 27,500 bullet-resistant jackets to ensure more protection for its jawans while fighting terrorists and stone-pelters.

Officials said the government wants to provide an "absolute" shield to the security personnel, who have been dealing with violence for over four months since Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani was killed.

CRPF, Border Security Force and J&K Police convoys are attacked by Pakistan-based terror outfits and more than 150 jawans/officers have been killed and several thousand injured in these attacks in the Valley in past few years. It has been seen that most deaths are because of lack of adequate bullet-proof jackets, which can withstand fire from small arms and rifles.


The CRPF is procuring 27,412 international quality bullet-resistant jackets which are used by the forces of western countries including the US, France and the UK. A global tender was issued earlier this month.

The force has also issued a tender to purchase 183 bulletproof vehicles like Rakshak or Gypsies. CRPF director general K Durga Prasad told TOI, "The procurement of good quality gear and vehicles was pending for a long time but the government has now given us a go-ahead to buy safety equipment as there is high demand and our men are working in high risk zones."

In another move to boost the morale of jawans, CRPF has recommended giving "out of turn" promotions to its personnel who demonstrate gallant actions.