SPEECH BY HER EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT OF INDIA, SHRIMATI PRATIBHA DEVISINGH PATIL, AT THE INAUGURATION OF THE GLOBAL CONFERENCE ON SECURITY KNOWLEDGE AND EMPLOYABILITY

New Delhi, 4th December, 2009

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am pleased to inaugurate the Global Conference on Security Knowledge and Employability organized by the Central Association of Private Security Industry and the Association of Private Detectives and Investigators.

We are living in a world where the security environment is complex. Threats to security and stability arise out of many factors. Apart from crime and other law and order situations, the one issue that has had a deep impact on the way we live and conduct business, is the threat posed by terrorism. The exposure of innocent civilian population to random incidents of violence has increased, as terrorists have adopted more audacious and more insidious methods. While it is true that such factors have raised concerns about security and safety issues, it is also remarkable to note the determination of the people, not to be deterred by or to allow their lives to be disrupted by acts of terrorism. Any path to address security concerns requires measures that instill confidence in the minds of the public without creating alarm.

Terrorism is not a limited threat; it is a world wide operation. Today, many countries in the East and in the West, in the North and in the South, have been the targets of the nefarious designs of terrorists. It is a fallacy to think that any country or society can be immune to terror attacks. It is an ideology born out of hatred and its adherents belong to no religion, culture or civilization. An effective response to it would require a concerted, coordinated and cooperative effort by all Governments and by all citizens of the world who seek peace and development. The global compact against terrorism needs to be strengthened. In this context, the early conclusion of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, which is currently being negotiated in the United Nations, will be important.

At the operational level, improved intelligence gathering, surveillance systems and intelligence sharing are essential steps. The objective should be to work together in such a collective and unified manner, that the terrorists can get no leeway or support or encouragement from any quarter. The sustenance lines of terrorists must be completely dried up. Every State has a responsibility, and it must fulfill it, to deal firmly and immediately with any person, individual or group in its territory, involved in any manner with terrorism, be it training, financing, operating, indoctrinating, facilitating or masterminding acts of terror anywhere in the world.

Nations also would need to strengthen their own structures to deal with terrorism. India, which has been a victim of terrorism for more than two decades, has taken steps to strengthen laws and institutions to respond to such attacks. We will continue to keep this issue under constant review and take appropriate measures.

Terrorism also has had implications for the law and order situation and other crimes. The nexus between drug running, gun running and counterfeit currency and terrorists has deep security implications. The net is cast wide and it means that security issues would require each citizen to be vigilant and to adhere to security measures. There have been instances where due to the alertness of citizens, many incidents have been averted. It is, therefore important, that all citizens are given some basic training on security norms and they remain alert about any untoward happenings in their neighborhood.

The security apparatus of the States whether it is the Armed Forces, Para-military forces, Border Security forces or Police forces, are working to ensure security and law and order. They would, of course, continue to do so. Private security agencies can contribute to their efforts. In India, the work of private security agencies is regulated under the Private Security Agencies Regulation Act of 2005. All agencies, therefore, must function within the ambit of the legislation. I am told that many State Governments have passed the required rules in respect of this legislation but in some States action is pending. It is necessary that these States also complete the requisite procedures. As I mentioned, private security agencies can augment the efforts of Government security agencies in ensuring a safe and secure environment at workplaces, commercial premises and residential complexes. They can also counsel and guide individuals and business organizations, regarding the installation of security features in their premises, which as precautionary measures can add to a sense of security. On all these issues, a process of dialogue between the representatives of private security agencies and the Government must be maintained.

In the context of private security agencies, there are some aspects which I would like to highlight, so as to enhance their performance and alongwith it their accountability. First, the training for those recruited for work as private security guards, whether new or previously trained is crucial for creating better service benchmarks. This should be constantly improved as per the changed situations and modern techniques. Without proper skills, performance would not be as per the desired levels of efficiency. I call on this Conference to focus on how training and instruction facilities can be improved and intensified. Similarly, every society has retired personnel from government forces. They have a wealth of information about security drills and procedures. I am sure that they can be of great help to private security organizations.

Private security agencies have come to exist in many countries. In India, I am told that the Private Security Industry comprises of nearly 15,000 security agencies with a collective employee base of over 55 lakh private security personnel. Hence, creating conducive working conditions for private security personnel is basic for establishing a viable and dependable system. Equally imperative is the welfare of private security personnel. In this context, socially responsible schemes under the "Security Employees Welfare Action" Trust, such as low cost housing projects, will enhance the morale of those working in the private security sector. I was happy to launch the "Secure the Girl Child Scheme", under which girls of private security guards would get economic support from the time of birth, right through education up to the time of marriage. It is education that empowers any individual to earn and live with dignity. Hence, I am glad that this scheme looks at giving education and other facilities to the girl child.

I congratulate the Central Association of Private Security Industry and the Association of Private Detectives and Investigators, their leadership and all members of the industry, for their work in the last four years. With these words, I wish you all the best.

Thank You,

Jai Hind.