Stronger Security Protocols for CCS-3 Building
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has initiated a new security system for the CCS-3 building in Central Vista, directing all employees—including those on contract, to shift to biometric smart cards for secure entry. This replaces the older identity cards and marks a significant upgrade in access control procedures.
According to an internal communication circulated by MHA, employees must now submit biometric data, photographs, and complete an online form to obtain their new smart card. These cards, embedded with biometric identifiers, will be required to gain access to the building that now houses nine critical ministries and departments.
Why the Change?
Previously, biometric data of government employees existed within ministry systems but was used solely for attendance purposes. Entry to secured buildings relied on non-biometric ID cards. With the new system, Aadhaar-enabled biometric authentication will control building access directly, aiming to eliminate the risks posed by impersonation or misuse of old ID cards.
Dev Gupta, President of the Central Secretariat Service (CSS) Forum, welcomed the move for enhancing security but also raised concerns over inadequate seating arrangements for CSS officers in the new premises. He urged the government to ensure compliance with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs’ prescribed norms.
Smart Cards Mandatory for All
The MHA has clearly instructed that all identity cards issued under the old system will be invalid. Whether permanent officials, contract staff, or visitors, everyone must switch to the biometric-enabled smart cards to gain entry into the CCS-3 building, which is under full security surveillance by the MHA.
Ministries Now Operating from CCS-3
The following ministries and departments have already shifted to the CCS-3 building:
- Ministry of Home Affairs
- Ministry of External Affairs
- Department of Personnel and Training
- Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
- Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises
- Ministry of Rural Development
- Department of Land Resources
- Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor
- Office of the Development Commissioner, MSME
With this new move, MHA is aligning access control with modern security standards, integrating biometric identity, digital access, and secure verification under a unified system.
