PM Narendra Modi’s 75th Birthday- Meet the elite force behind prime minister’s unmatched security, trained to neutralise any threat in seconds
PM Narendra Modi’s 75th Birthday- Prime Minister Narendra Modi is turning 75 on Wednesday, September 17. The occasion draws spotlight not only on his political legacy, personal life, works, commitments, but also on the elite force that ensures his safety every single day. As the head of the government, he is one of the most protected leaders in the country, second only to the President. He is known for his distinguished personality and a leadership style that is unique to him. PM Modi is constantly on the move, attending public rallies, political meetings, state visits, foreign visits and other events.
Who are the elite Commandos protecting PM Modi?
PM Modi remains one of the most high-risk individuals in the country and ensuring his safety is a mammoth task entrusted to Special Protection Group (SPG). His security is carefully planned, a highly trained unit is tasked with providing round-the-clock proximate security to the Prime Minister. In the past, several videos of PM Modi accompanied by SPG commandos have gone viral, with netizens praising the officers for their alertness and hard work. On his 75th birthday, here’s a closer look at the commandos who stand guard behind the scenes, making sure he is safe all the time. Notably, PM Modi is currently the only person under SPG protection.
About SPG, the elite force behind PM’s unmatched security
SPG is entrusted with the task of providing proximate security to the Prime Minister of India, former Prime Minister and their immediate family members. Since its establishment in 1985, the group is providing security to its protectees at their office and residence, during local functions, internal and external tours. The current director of the SPG is IPS Alok Sharma, a 1991-batch officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre. He is holding the position since November 17, 2023, taking over after former director Arun Kumar Sinha.
According to the SPG website, the group works on the motto of “Zero Error” and “Culture of Excellence”, with each SPG personnel dedicating himself to uphold the integrity of the nation and motto of “Shauryam Samarpanam Surakshanam” i.e. bravery, devotion and protection. On 27 November 2019, the Parliament of India passed the Special Protection Group (Amendment Act), 2019 which limited SPG protection only to the PM and his immediate family members residing with him at his official residence
What makes SPG Commandos special?
SPG officers display high leadership qualities, professionalism, knowledge of proximate security and inculcate the culture of leading from the front. While they have their own method of working, they also work in collaboration with the IB and State/ UT police forces to ensure zero-error security for its protectees. SPG commandos receive highly specialised and intensive training in various aspects of close protection. This includes training in physical efficiency, firing techniques, and communication skills.
They are equipped with modern and sophisticated weaponry. Their training covers close protection, counter-terror tactics, marksmanship, bomb threat response, secure movement, convoy protection, high alert scenarios etc. The group also boasts the honours it has received for an exceptional service it provides. SPG officers have been awarded with 1 Shaurya Chakra, 45 President’s Police Medals for distinguished Service and 351 Police Medals for Meritorious Service. Moreover, the group has the honour of its first Director being awarded the Padma Shri.
The Special Protection Group Act, 1988
The Special Protection Group Act, 1988, act no. 34 of 1988 defines proximate security as protection provided from close quarters during journey by road, rail, aircraft, watercraft or on foot or any other means of transport. As per the act, Constitution of the Group must include an armed force of the Union called the SPG for providing proximate security to the PM and members of his immediate family.
The overall supervision, direction, and control of the Group rest with the Central Government. The command and supervision of the Group is under an officer appointed by the Central Government, known as the Director of the Group. The Director is assisted by six officers (Inspectors General, Deputy Inspectors General, Assistant Inspectors General) and other officers as appointed by the Central Government. Every member of the Group is entitled to serve in any part of India as well as outside India. Members of the group have to be always active on duty.
Key duties of the SPG
Protect the Prime Minister and their family from threats like attacks, kidnapping, or assassination.
Provide security during the PM’s travel, both in India and abroad.
Help plan and manage security during visits by foreign leaders to India.
Work with other security agencies to ensure the PM and their family are always safe.
Watch for any possible threats and take steps to prevent them.
Internal structure of SPG :
The SPG is made up of different units, each with a specific role:
Close Protection Units: Provide direct security to the Prime Minister and their family, whether in India or abroad.
Advance Security Liaison Teams: Travel ahead to check and coordinate security before the PM or their family visits a place, especially in other countries.
Security and Support Units: Handle transport, logistics, and upkeep of security gear and communication systems.
Specialised Units: Includes expert teams like bomb squads, dog squads (canine units), and medical teams to handle emergencies or specific threats.