New Delhi: In a significant move to strengthen the security apparatus protecting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has reached out to Chief Secretaries across the country seeking eligible Indian Police Service (IPS) officers for deputation to the Special Protection Group (SPG).
The urgent requirement is for officers of the rank of Deputy Inspector General (DIG), following the recent repatriation of nearly a dozen IPS officers from the SPG to their parent cadres and services.
SPG Requires DIG-Rank IPS Officers Immediately
According to official communications sent by the Home Ministry two weeks ago, the sanctioned DIG-level IPS posts within the Special Protection Group remain vacant and need to be filled on priority.
The message was sent to Chief Secretaries of all states, excluding Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram and certain Union Territories. State governments have been asked to circulate the vacancy information widely among eligible IPS officers and forward nominations of willing candidates to the Ministry of Home Affairs within 30 days.
14 Years of Service Mandatory for Eligibility
The MHA has specified that officers applying for deputation to the Special Protection Group as DIGs must have completed at least 14 years of service in the Indian Police Service.
In addition to nomination documents, state governments are required to submit:
- Current vigilance status
- Service records
- Consent of the officer concerned
This is intended to ensure that only officers with impeccable integrity and strong professional credentials are considered.
Why the Shortage Has Become Critical
The shortage comes at a time when many DIG-level positions across central investigative agencies, police organizations and paramilitary forces remain vacant.
However, the situation became particularly pressing after approximately twelve officers serving in the Special Protection Group were recently repatriated to their parent cadres.
Given the SPG’s highly specialized role in close protection, vacancies at the DIG level can significantly affect leadership and operational planning.
Inside the SPG: India’s Elite Prime Ministerial Security Force
The Special Protection Group is regarded as one of the world’s premier close-protection organizations.
It is responsible for providing proximate security to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and operates with the guiding principles of:
- Zero Error
- Culture of Excellence
- Shauryam Samarpnam Suraksham (Valor, Dedication and Security)
SPG officers are trained to function in high-risk environments both in India and abroad and are expected to be prepared to make the supreme sacrifice if required.
Distinguished Record of Excellence
The Special Protection Group has earned numerous honors for outstanding service, including:
- 1 Shaurya Chakra
- 46 President’s Police Medals for Distinguished Service
- 358 Police Medals for Meritorious Service
The organization also holds the distinction of having its first Director honored with the Padma Shri.
Leadership Qualities Required in SPG Officers
Service in the SPG demands:
- Exceptional leadership skills
- High professionalism
- Expertise in close-protection techniques
- Ability to coordinate with intelligence agencies and state police forces
- Commitment to leading from the front
These qualities enable the SPG to maintain flawless and foolproof security for the Prime Minister and other protectees.
