SPG Full Form: What Is the SPG?
SPG Full Form: The SPG, or Special Protection Group, is an elite security force dedicated to protecting the Prime Minister of India, their family, and their residences. Established to ensure the highest level of security for the nation’s leaders, SPG personnel are selected from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Training and Expertise of SPG Guards
SPG operatives undergo extensive training in conventional warfare, including firearms, explosives, unarmed combat, and close-quarter battle techniques. Celebrating its Golden Jubilee on January 24, 2018, the SPG has established itself as a premier security force with a legacy of excellence.
Why Was the SPG Established?
The SPG was created in response to the security challenges faced by the Prime Minister and their family. It has been operational since the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) was moved to Delhi in 1966. Initially set up on October 25, 1947, as the president’s bodyguard service, it now also protects former prime ministers and their families for life, and other important dignitaries as needed. SPG Full Form
The Role of the SPG
The primary role of the SPG is to provide security for high-level politicians and diplomats, particularly the Prime Minister and their immediate family. The SPG also extends protection to visiting dignitaries who have not been given “special protection” status by the Indian government. The SPG’s responsibilities include VIP security, counter-terrorism, and intelligence gathering on threats to India.
SPG teams are led by experienced IPS (Indian Police Service) officers and supported by retired military officers and personnel from forces like the CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) and BSF (Border Security Force). It is not a police or law enforcement agency but a specialized security unit.
SPG Operations and Deployment
SPG operatives are constantly present around the Prime Minister’s office, residences, and during travel within India or abroad. They also provide security to other VVIPs, including foreign dignitaries visiting India. The force consists of approximately 5,000 personnel, with a total strength of about 5,500.
Where Is the SPG Based?
The SPG is headquartered in New Delhi and is one of India’s oldest and largest security agencies. Its roots trace back to the early 1800s when the British East India Company established a small security force. Over time, it evolved into a highly trained organization recognized globally.
Joining the SPG
To join the SPG, an individual must be a member of one of the three branches of the Indian Armed Forces: the Army, Navy, or Air Force. Applicants must be Indian citizens between 18 to 30 years old, physically fit, and have an impeccable service record. Recruits undergo six months of intensive training to prepare for their duties.
Conclusion
The Special Protection Group (SPG) was established to protect India’s highest-ranking officials, including the Prime Minister, the President, the Vice-President, and their families. Headquartered in New Delhi, the SPG operates as a highly professional organization with a remarkable track record. It employs over 1,200 officers and can deploy more than 2,500 personnel at any given time. Led by a Director General and assisted by a Deputy Director General, the SPG continues to excel in its mission to ensure the safety and security of India’s top leaders.
FAQs
What is the full form of SPG?
The full form of SPG is the Special Protection Group.
What is the main role of the SPG?
The SPG’s primary role is to protect the Prime Minister of India, their family, and their residences. It also provides security to former prime ministers and their families, as well as other dignitaries when needed.
How many people work in the SPG?
Approximately 5,000 personnel work in the SPG, with a total force strength of around 5,500.
Where is the SPG based?
he SPG is headquartered in New Delhi, India.
What qualifications are needed to join the SPG?
To join the SPG, one must be a member of the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force, be an Indian citizen between 18 to 30 years old, physically fit, and have an impeccable service record.
What kind of training do SPG personnel undergo?
SPG personnel undergo rigorous training in conventional warfare, including firearms, explosives, unarmed combat, and close-quarter battle techniques.