Half of NSG batch fails in basic aviation test

The elite security force National Security Guard (NSG) also known as the black cat commandos, have the expertise to deal with anti-terror activities, anti-sabotage and anti-hijack operations. However, it seems they are short of expertise in the basics of aviation security, a basic examination for feet-on-the-ground operations.

In the basic aviation security examination of a batch of NSG, almost 50 per cent personnel flunked the test conducted by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) out of 20 candidates who participated in the test on April 18 in Delhi.

The test results revealed that 10 out of 22 candidates failed, and two are marked absent.

The designation of three of the failed personnel is Major while of two others is Captain along with the two absent candidates.

The examination tests the knowledge of rules, screening and working of equipment like X-rays and metal detectors.

The basic aviation security exam is conducted by the BCAS keeping in mind the international aviation standards.

The test is divided into theoretical as well as practical and has to be appeared by all personnel involved with airport security, including private airline employees, airport operators and CISF personnel. This test, conducted by the agency in phases at regular intervals, is meant to check preparedness of security personnel in view of renewed threat perceptions and to make them aware of the changing pattern of IEDs and other explosives, said the airport sources.

The test has two sections- a 60-mark written test and a 40-mark practical while the passing mark is 80.

“By all standards, it was a poor performance,” said an airport source. The sources further said that successful completion of the course enables the candidate to be eligible for posting on security duties at the airport. Sources further said the huge growth in air travel has made every airport a potential terror target where intense security is an absolute requirement.

An anti-hijacking unit of the NSG is stationed permanently at the IGI airport to avert any of the possible security threat.