INVC NEWS
New Delhi : Explore how the Budget 2024 is boosting the Special Protection Group (SPG) budget to ensure heightened security for PM Modi, while also expanding the scope and resources for Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and intelligence agencies.
Introduction
The recent Budget 2024 has made headlines with significant changes in the realm of national security, particularly concerning the safety of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As part of the government’s commitment to enhancing the protection of its highest official, the allocation for the Special Protection Group (SPG) has seen a notable increase. Furthermore, the budget introduces expanded funding for Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and intelligence agencies, signaling a strategic move to bolster national security across various fronts.
In this comprehensive overview, we’ll dissect the key elements of Budget 2024, focusing on the augmented SPG budget, the expansion of CAPF resources, and the enhanced scope of intelligence operations. Let’s dive into the specifics of these changes and what they mean for the security apparatus of India.
Enhanced Security Measures for PM Modi
Increased SPG Budget Allocation
One of the most crucial aspects of the Budget 2024 is the substantial increase in funding for the Special Protection Group (SPG). The SPG, tasked with safeguarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is receiving a boost in its budget from ₹446.82 crore in 2023-24 to ₹506.32 crore. This hike is a direct response to past security lapses and aims to ensure there are no future breaches in PM Modi’s protection.
This increase is not just a numbers game; it represents a strategic enhancement in the capabilities and resources available to the SPG. The additional funds are expected to be channeled into:
- Advanced Security Technology: New surveillance and tracking equipment will be integrated into SPG’s operations.
- Enhanced Personnel Training: More rigorous training programs for SPG personnel will be implemented.
- Operational Upgrades: Upgrading communication and response systems to ensure rapid and effective action in any security scenario.
Historical Context of Security Challenges
To appreciate the gravity of these enhancements, it’s essential to look back at past incidents that highlighted security vulnerabilities. One such incident occurred on February 5, 2022, when PM Modi’s convoy was delayed by a farmer’s protest in Punjab. The convoy was stuck for approximately 20 minutes on the Pyareana flyover in Firozpur. This incident, which led to a temporary detour and significant administrative fallout, underscored the critical need for more robust security measures.
Following this lapse, several officials, including senior police officers, faced disciplinary actions, emphasizing the need for stringent and foolproof security protocols.
Expansion of CAPF Budgets
Increasing Funds for CRPF and BSF
The Budget 2024 also marks a significant increase in the budgets for key Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Border Security Force (BSF) are receiving enhanced financial allocations:
- CRPF: The CRPF’s budget has been increased to ₹31,543.20 crore from the previous year’s allocation of ₹31,389.04 crore. This increase will aid in the expansion and modernization of CRPF operations, particularly in areas of internal security and counter-insurgency.
- BSF: The BSF’s budget has been raised to ₹25,472.44 crore from ₹25,038.68 crore. This boost is aimed at strengthening border security and improving the force’s operational readiness.
The Role of New Battalions
One notable development is the acceleration in the process of establishing new battalions within these forces. The increased budget is expected to facilitate:
- Recruitment Drives: Faster recruitment to fill vacancies and form new battalions.
- Infrastructure Development: Enhanced infrastructure for better training and operational deployment.
- Modernization Initiatives: Investment in new technologies and equipment for improved efficiency and effectiveness.
Boost to Intelligence Agencies
Increased Funding for Intelligence Bureau (IB)
The Intelligence Bureau (IB) is another major beneficiary of the Budget 2024. Its budget has been substantially increased from ₹3,268.94 crore in 2023-24 to ₹3,823.83 crore. This increment is aimed at strengthening India’s intelligence capabilities across several dimensions:
- Advanced Surveillance Equipment: Acquisition of cutting-edge surveillance tools.
- Expanded Personnel: Increase in the number of technical staff to enhance intelligence gathering and analysis.
- Enhanced Operational Scope: Broader range of intelligence operations to preempt and counter potential threats.
Implications for National Security
The augmented funding for IB will have a profound impact on national security by:
- Improving Threat Detection: Better tools and trained personnel will enhance the agency’s ability to detect and neutralize threats before they materialize.
- Strengthening Counter-Intelligence Efforts: More resources will be devoted to counter-intelligence operations, ensuring that internal security breaches are minimized.
Central Government Budget Allocation Overview
Total Allocation for Home Ministry
For the fiscal year 2024-25, the Home Ministry has been allocated a substantial budget of ₹2,19,643.31 crore. This figure represents a significant increase from the interim budget allocation of ₹2,02,868.70 crore.
The distribution of this budget is crucial for:
- Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF): ₹1,43,275.90 crore has been earmarked for CAPF units including CRPF, BSF, and CISF.
- Intelligence Operations: Enhanced funds for intelligence operations and technological upgrades.
Allocation to Specific Forces
The budgetary allocations for individual forces within CAPF have also seen notable changes:
- CISF: The Central Industrial Security Force, responsible for the security of vital installations including the Parliament House, has been allocated ₹14,331.89 crore, up from ₹12,929.85 crore in the previous year.
- ITBP: The Indo-Tibetan Border Police, stationed along the India-China border, has received ₹8,634.21 crore, compared to ₹8,203.68 crore previously.
- SSB and Assam Rifles: Other forces such as the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) and Assam Rifles have also seen their budgets increased, ensuring a more robust and prepared security force across various regions.
The Budget 2024 reflects a strategic commitment to enhancing national security, with a significant focus on improving the safety of high-profile individuals such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi. By increasing the budget for the Special Protection Group (SPG), expanding resources for Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), and boosting funding for intelligence operations, the government is making a concerted effort to fortify the country’s security infrastructure.
These measures, coupled with the historical context of past security challenges, underline the need for continuous vigilance and advancement in security protocols. The increased budgets for SPG, CRPF, BSF, and intelligence agencies are poised to make a meaningful difference in safeguarding national interests and maintaining public safety. As India moves forward, these enhanced security measures will play a pivotal role in ensuring a secure and resilient nation.
