Special Protection Group

The Special Protection Group (SPG) was established in the aftermath of the tragic assassination of Indira Gandhi, then Prime Minister of India. Acting on the recommendation of the Birbal Nath Committee, the Government of India created a highly professional and dedicated security force exclusively tasked with protecting the Prime Minister.

The SPG formally came into being through a notification dated 30 March 1985. Its primary objective was to provide proximate security to the Prime Minister and immediate family members.

Expanded Mandate

Initially entrusted with safeguarding the serving Prime Minister, the SPG’s charter was expanded in 1991 to include former Prime Ministers as well. Over time, it evolved into an elite officer-led organization committed to maintaining the highest standards of vigilance and professionalism.

The SPG set for itself a “zero defect” culture, striving relentlessly to achieve excellence in every aspect of its functioning.

Professional Excellence and Training

From its inception, the SPG has continuously upgraded its security drills, operational procedures, training techniques, weaponry, and technical equipment. Constant review and modernization ensure that the force remains equipped with the latest advancements in security management.

SPG personnel operate in high-stress environments, conducting scheduled and unscheduled security duties, anti-sabotage checks, and close protection assignments. Teamwork is central to its functioning, with seamless coordination maintained across all units. Regular and rigorous training ensures peak physical fitness, precision, and alertness at all times.

The organization has also played a catalytic role in strengthening VVIP security systems across India and in neighbouring regions.

Honours and Recognition

Since its establishment, the SPG has been widely recognized for distinguished service. The organization has received 26 President’s Police Medals for distinguished service and 204 Police Medals for meritorious service. Its first Director was honoured with the Padma Shri for exemplary leadership.

Motto and Commitment

The SPG embodies the spirit of excellence, resilience, and unwavering commitment. Its personnel are trained to make the supreme sacrifice, if necessary, to ensure the protection of their protectees and to fulfill the mandate entrusted to them by the Government of India.

The organization lives by its motto: “Shauryam, Samarpanam, Surakshanam” — meaning Valour, Devotion, and Protection.

Commemorative Postage Stamp

To recognize the invaluable service rendered by the Special Protection Group—an elite Union armed force providing proximate security to present and former Prime Ministers of India and their immediate family members worldwide—India Post issued a commemorative postage stamp honouring the SPG’s dedication, discipline, and sacrifice.