Pvt security agencies make beeline for govt jobs

A host of firms from the US, UK and other countries are offering latest gadgets and services to the Commonwealth Games organisers to ensure foolproof security for the mega event in October.

Be it security, manpower management, construction and other logistical support, these agencies have a variety of equipment and technology for the Games, claim owners. Representatives of these companies, mainly from Israel, UK and the US are offering bullet proof jackets, security and surveillance gadgets, locking system and intelligence software.

"There are a lot of products mainly related to Homeland services which can help government in many ways. We are approaching security agencies and other concerned authorities to get some business association," said Offer Einav, CEO of Tops-Securegate, a joint venture between two Indian and Israeli firms.

Einav is pitching for its TriGateTM to help in intelligence mapping and identification of threats and loopholes in protecting assets, infrastructure and sites.

There is no official valuation of the Indian security market but experts put the figure at about $600 million.
Armoured carriers, anti-riot equipments, bullet proof clothing, night vision devices, surveillance and counter surveillance equipment, radar tracking devices, electronic devices inclusive of command and control systems and wireless and communication equipment are among the high-tech gadgets on offer.

President of Central Association of Private Security Industries Kunwar Vikram Singh said, "There are lot of roles for private agencies especially during Commonwealth Games. We are holding discussions with different authorities in this regard."

Around 11,557 security professionals from across the globe dealing in safety equipments have displayed their high-end products during an exhibition here last year.

The organisers have claimed to generate business of over Rs 400 crore (Rs 4 billion) from the event.