CRPF VIP Security Group Established

January 16, 2025

In January 2025, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) officially disbanded the Parliament Duty Group (PDG) of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and merged it with the VIP Security Group (VSG). This transition follows the withdrawal of the PDG from Parliament security duties in May 2024. The restructured unit now boasts an expanded personnel strength to enhance the protection of high-profile individuals.

Transition of Personnel

The Parliament Duty Group (PDG), comprising about 1,400 personnel, has been rebranded as the VSG. This change was formalised through an MHA order on January 15, 2025. The PDG was previously linked to the VSG after its withdrawal from Parliament.

New Battalion Addition

The CRPF’s VIP security unit has received a new battalion, Battalion 190, with over 1,000 personnel. This battalion was previously engaged in anti-Naxal operations in Jharkhand. Its integration aims to boost VIP protection capabilities.

Current Responsibilities

The VSG is tasked with safeguarding over 200 individuals, including prominent political figures such as Union Home Minister Amit Shah and members of the Gandhi family. The unit’s duties have expanded , now exceeding 8,000 personnel in total.

Historical Context

The PDG was removed from Parliament security following security breach in December 2023. This incident involved individuals infiltrating the Lok Sabha chamber, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the PDG’s previous responsibilities.

Role of the CRPF

The CRPF, established in 1939, is one of India’s leading paramilitary forces.
Its mission encompasses maintaining public order, internal security, and supporting national integrity.
The force has played vital roles in various operations, including crowd control and counter-terrorism.

Other Central Armed Forces

The CRPF operates alongside other Central Armed Police Forces, including the Assam Rifles, Border Security Force, Central Industrial Security Force, Indo Tibetan Border Police, National Security Guard, and Sashastra Seema Bal. Each has specific mandates for internal security and border protection.

CRPF Duties

The CRPF performs a variety of essential functions, such as riot control, counter-insurgency operations, VIP protection, and participating in UN peacekeeping missions. Its adaptability allows it to respond effectively to both domestic and international security challenges.

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