CAPSI asks Govt to upgrade private security personnel to “Para Police”: Keeping in mind the recent developments in Israel, the Central Association of Private Security Industry (CAPSI) has urged the Centre to upgrade the role of private security personnel to “Para Police” by imparting security skills and knowledge of international standards.
“There are over 1 crore private security professionals employed in India to protect human and corporate assets. We are the largest security workforce in the World. It is time to upgrade the role of private security to “Para Police” by imparting security skills and knowledge of international standards. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) had already developed international standards for private security. These highly trained security professionals can be given new roles in internal security to ensure safe and secure environment,” said Mr Kunwar Vikram Singh, Chairman, CAPSI, the apex body of the private security industry.
Mr Singh said the Ministry of Home Affairs should consider grading private security guards and supervisors to the status of “Para Police” by up skilling them to effectively perform para police duties which would significantly increase overall security personnel available for maintaining law and order in the country. This could lead to a stronger and more visible security presence, instilling a sense of safety and deterrence, he added.
“Private security guards who possess “Para Police” training as per the norms set up by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) can potentially respond quickly to security threats and emergency situations. They can assist in mitigating risks, protecting public spaces, and providing support during critical security situations,” said Mr Singh.
Stating at the recent developments in Israel underscore the urgency for India to adopt a new “national security culture”, Mr Singh said: “By investing in research, upgrading our infrastructure, promoting inclusive dialogues, and fostering public awareness, the private security industry can proactively address emerging threats and ensure the safety and security of our nation and its citizens. It is high time to form a robust public-private partnership in our country to safeguard against any potential security challenges and contribute positively to global peace and stability.”
The CAPSI Chairman further said that the ongoing crisis in Israel serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present threat to global peace and stability. “It essential for us to reassess our approach to national security to effectively counter such challenges in the future. We need a comprehensive review of our national security infrastructure. This should involve an assessment of our current defense capabilities, technological advancements, and strategic partnerships. By identifying gaps in our defenses, we can allocate resources judiciously to upgrade our military capabilities and enhance our readiness to counter any potential threats,” he said.
Mr Singh further said it is also high time that academic institutions and think tanks must collaborate to develop in-depth research initiatives and courses on national security. These initiatives should not only focus on traditional warfare practices, but also include areas such as cybersecurity, intelligence gathering, counter terrorism, and conflict resolution. By nurturing a robust body of knowledge, we can equip our security professionals with the expertise needed to anticipate and address emerging threats.
“Furthermore, cultivating open dialogues between the government, military, intelligence agencies, and civil society is critical in fostering a strong national security culture. Regular briefings, consultations, and open forums can help foster trust, encourage knowledge sharing, and enable collective decision-making to tackle security challenges effectively. It is vital to create an environment where diverse perspectives are heard and considered, as this will lead to innovative solutions and stronger cooperation,” Mr Singh added.
“Public awareness and civic participation play a pivotal role in shaping a robust national security culture. Government agencies should actively engage with citizens through public campaigns, community outreach programs, and educational initiatives. By enhancing people’s understanding of security concerns and their role in supporting national security efforts, we can cultivate a unified sense of responsibility and resilience,” CAPSI Chairman added.
