CISF takes over security of Covaxin manufacturer Bharat Biotech's Hyderabad campus

NEW DELHI: The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has taken over security of indigenous Covid vaccine maker Bharat Biotech’s main facility at Shameerpet, Hyderabad, with the induction of 64 personnel on Monday.
CISF cover was approved by the home ministry for Bharat Biotech as the biohazard of any accidental or sabotage-related leakage of material from the facility has the potential of a widespread disaster.
“In the light of the increased threat perception to the biotechnology company situated across the country, BBIL is inherently vulnerable to threats from anti-nationals & saboteurs….The CISF will provide round-the-clock armed security cover to the Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL), Hyderabad,” CISF said in a press release issued following the induction ceremony.
The induction ceremony was graced by Bharat Biotech CMD Krishna Ella and JMD Suchitra Ella, besides CISF IG Anjana Sinha and DIG Shyamal Dinavahi.
The 64-member CISF unit deployed at Bharat Biotech is headed by an Inspector-rank officer. With this, total units with CISF security cover have risen to 351 as on date.
Bharat Biotech is an Indian biotechnology company engaged in drug discovery, drug development, and manufacture of vaccines, bio-therapeutics, pharmaceuticals and health care products. BBIL is one of the first to develop vaccines for viral diseases like Chikungunya and Zika. It also produces vaccines for Japanese Encephalitis. It is the first fully indigenous manufacturer of Covid-19 vaccine called Covaxin in India.