📷 Image: Indian Express (via NewsData)
Defence
CRPF launches comprehensive suicide‑prevention initiative after 59 personnel deaths
✍️ Indian Express
🗓 20 Aug 2026, 01:39 PM
👁 1
The Central Reserve Police Force announced a new suicide‑prevention programme following 59 deaths among its ranks last year.
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) disclosed a wide‑ranging suicide‑prevention programme after recording 59 suicides among its personnel in the past year, a figure that prompted urgent action from the force's leadership.
The initiative includes a 24‑hour mental‑health helpline, regular psychological screenings for all personnel, and mandatory counseling sessions for those identified as at risk. Commanders will receive training to recognise early warning signs, while peer‑support groups are being set up across battalions to foster a supportive environment.
A CRPF spokesperson said the measures will be rolled out in phases, starting with units posted in high‑stress zones, and will be monitored by a panel of civilian mental‑health experts to ensure effectiveness. The force aims to halve the suicide rate within the next two years.
Experts note that mental‑health challenges are increasingly recognised in India’s security forces, and the CRPF’s steps align with broader governmental efforts to address psychological well‑being among uniformed personnel.
The initiative includes a 24‑hour mental‑health helpline, regular psychological screenings for all personnel, and mandatory counseling sessions for those identified as at risk. Commanders will receive training to recognise early warning signs, while peer‑support groups are being set up across battalions to foster a supportive environment.
A CRPF spokesperson said the measures will be rolled out in phases, starting with units posted in high‑stress zones, and will be monitored by a panel of civilian mental‑health experts to ensure effectiveness. The force aims to halve the suicide rate within the next two years.
Experts note that mental‑health challenges are increasingly recognised in India’s security forces, and the CRPF’s steps align with broader governmental efforts to address psychological well‑being among uniformed personnel.