The center has decided to upgrade security at scientific and technical installations located in the border regions of Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Chandigarh, and parts of Rajasthan and Gujarat. The decision was announced on Saturday by Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, after he chaired a high-level joint meeting with senior officials and heads of scientific institutions in New Delhi.
The meeting was convened to review the security preparedness of critical scientific infrastructure across the country, particularly in sensitive border zones. The minister also focused on internal readiness and civil coordination at these facilities.
Dr. Singh conducted a detailed review of security mechanisms at key institutions including CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu; CSIR-Central Scientific Instruments Organisation and CSIR-Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh; CLRI, Jalandhar; NABI, Mohali; and Earth Sciences installations in Ladakh. He also directed special attention to IMD facilities in Srinagar and Leh, instructing the Director General of IMD to enhance security at these locations.
Recognising the national importance of these scientific establishments, the minister said that such institutions form the backbone of India’s research and disaster response infrastructure. All scientific departments have been asked to upgrade their security protocols and maintain close coordination with local district administrations.
Each institution has also been directed to issue updated Standard Operating Procedures for emergency response, conduct mock drills, and organize sensitisation programmes on self-defence and evacuation strategies. Dr. Singh further advised postponement of examinations and research proposal deadlines to accommodate students and researchers affected by the situation.
He emphasised that India’s scientific institutions must remain prepared and resilient, and highlighted the importance of morale-building efforts and continuous communication with local authorities.