PM lauds SPG for professionalism, commitment

New Delhi, Apr 7 (UNI) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today lauded the Special Protection Group for developing into a formidable force, and said it displayed a very high degree of professionalism and the most outstanding commitment to its truly onerous responsibilities.

''We are all justly proud that our country has a committed, well-trained Force for the security of the highest political leadership of the country,'' Dr Singh said after presenting Indian Police Medals for Meritorious Service to Special Protection Group (SPG) Officers announced on Independence Day 2006 and Republic Day 2007, at a function to commemorate the 22nd Raising Day of SPG here.

The Prime Minister admitted that in a democratic society it is imperative that the top political leadership should not only be easily accessible, but also visible and freely heard by the public at large but said that their security concerns need to be addressed.

He said that he is fully conscious that the task of the SPG is becoming more and more difficult, particularly in view of the rising threat perception. However, SPG has to manage this contradiction.

He said constant efforts are being made by the SPG, which acts as an interface between political leaders and the people, in this regard. This reflects the creativity of the officers of SPG. A lot is also being done to minimise the inconvenience levels faced by the ordinary citizen, he pointed out and said more could be done by adopting innovative lateral thinking along with an understanding approach.

The Prime Minister said that the Human Performance Centre created by SPG was undoubtedly a unique facility and perhaps one of its kind in the world. The recent acquisition of new weapons systems is indicative of SPG's efforts to acquire the most modern systems in the field to add an edge to its professional efficiency.

UNI