In our latest breakthrough series, EP Wired is taking a closer look at how executive protection is carried out around the globe. Starting the series is India, where we have interviewed three industry professionals and asked them to share their experiences working in the country. Take a closer look.
What are the particular challenges of executive protection in your country?
The biggest challenge in India is the fact that the industry is completely unregulated and does not have the presence or foresight that it needs, especially for an ever-evolving industry such as Executive Protection. We have the Private Security Agencies Regulations Act (PSARA) that does not even cover EP or any other segment other than physical security guarding. Till a few years back, the concept of EP itself was unknown, and everyone was just provided bodyguards. In fact, when I entered the industry in 2006, I was repeatedly told that I was doing something the country was not aware of, and it would never work in India.
India works on what I coined, “Old bottle, old wine, new label” syndrome. You still have the same old mentality of bodyguards, muscle, and little intelligence, only now decked up in suits and earpieces, calling and labeling themselves as Close Protection and Executive Protection.
There is a huge ego in the industry, especially from the Ex-mil, who feel that the industry by default is their playground, and anyone not from there has no right to work in protection. I have myself been told that many times, irrespective of the fact that my training and experience supersedes theirs and their understanding of EP. Within the industry itself, you will find that security does not respect security, and each has their own ego at play. It is never about working together for a common goal. This is a big difference that I found working in India and overseas. Most security heads are ex-mil who will ensure that only their people get the ops and others remain irrelevant.
Security, per se, is an industry that most upper section of society would consider work suitable for the lower sections. It is not seen as a ‘CAREER’ industry but rather a means to an end. It does not require great education or mental fortitude and thus is meant for those who could not probably get any other job. This unfortunately means that the industry then lacks the talent and intelligence needed because most do not want to enter as they see no growth or career prospects enabling them to make something of this opportunity. The money made here, too, is only lucrative to those running the business, as most often, the agents themselves are paid very poorly.
One of the biggest dangers I see today is the fact that anyone and everyone is EP and CP. They have no training, no certification, no actual understanding of protection, or real-time experience, so they either work independently or for companies that also use these terms to elevate themselves to show the global market. Very often, the owners of these businesses themselves have no training or comprehension of Executive Protection, but are in it purely as a business, to make money. As there is no set training format in India, exams or certification, companies can hire anyone they need and send them out in the guise of EP. Individuals themselves are self-proclaimed Protectors and create fancy social media pages to reflect the same. Many hire these services based on these profiles, not realizing the danger they are putting themselves in.
The laws in our country are another detrimental reason for EP not getting the recognition it deserves, or for agents being allowed to perform their duties with relevant backing. For example, the Arms Act does not allow an individual to operate in a commercial situation with his/her own weapon, and as such, the whole armed section is operating in a grey area with no real clarity or legal recourse. The result is that companies are providing these armed security services while not revealing what they truly can and can’t do, and clients and operators are none the wiser. — Godrej Rustumji
Executive protection in India presents a unique and complex set of challenges due to its socio-political diversity, high population density, unpredictable crowds, and often overstretched infrastructure. The role of a Close Protection Officer (CPO) in India is far more dynamic than in many other countries, requiring adaptability and high situational awareness.
Some of the key challenges include:
- Lack of formal training and certification for many CPOs leads to inconsistencies in skill levels.
- That’s the only reason we started our only training centre in India to train CPOs here and offer the best international standard security to our clients.
- Unpredictable public behavior, especially in urban areas and during celebrity appearances.
- Mob mentality and mass hysteria can escalate rapidly.
- Stone pelting and spontaneous violence during protests or political events.
- Intrusive paparazzi and social media exposure, which compromise client privacy and route secrecy.
- Terror threats, particularly in high-profile or politically sensitive regions.
- Street crimes such as pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and even knife attacks.
- Kidnapping risks, particularly high for industrialists and high-net-worth individuals.
- Frequent road accidents and poor traffic discipline complicate escape or reroute options.
- Stampedes, especially during religious gatherings or rallies.
- Natural disasters (like floods or heatwaves) may coincide with client movements.
- Communal tensions and political protests can erupt with little warning.
Each of these challenges requires proactive planning, strong intelligence networks, and the ability to adapt strategies in real time. — Yasin Dunge
Executive protection in India faces unique challenges due to its high population density, socio-political volatility, and inconsistent law enforcement infrastructure. With metros like Mumbai and Delhi housing over 20,000 people per sq km, maintaining secure movement routes is logistically difficult. Public awareness of EP protocols is low, often leading to interference.
Frequent political rallies (over 100,000 annually) and spontaneous protests add unpredictability. Moreover, disparities in emergency response times—averaging 15–30 minutes in many cities—further hinder real-time support. The lack of standardized EP frameworks across states forces protectors to rely heavily on soft skills, local intelligence, and adaptive planning rather than technology-heavy solutions. — Major Sagar Lonkar
What are the unexpected benefits of executive protection in your country?
One of the benefits I see of EP in this country is that, based on my many years of experience, my background/training, and the goodwill that I have created over these decades, I have absolutely no issues in getting work and receiving relevant payment from my clients. I predominantly cater to only foreign nationals and, as such, get to work with some amazing international teams (many current and ex-LEOs and Federal Agents) as well as earn in Dollars. Of course, this also comes with the perks of travel, accommodation, and visiting various places that one would otherwise not have access to. The respect and trust that I receive is unmatchable. This can be the same for anyone who strives to reach that level.
Given the number of foreign nationals coming to India and the growth of international companies, it is definitely necessary to have well-trained, intelligent, and smart assets to cater to the growing need in the EP industry. If our Government and industry take stock of the situation and emphasize proper universal training programs, relevant certification, and licensing, this would also encourage more people to get into this industry, as it would no longer be looked at as a ‘watchman’ role, but rather as an industry of opportunity and respect, with earning prospects.
Another great benefit of EP in India is the fact that you will get to have experiences like no other. Working assignments will give you opportunities for travel, adapting to constant changes, earning better than otherwise, working with different teams and principals, and the chance to at some point. This is an industry like no other, and its rewards are just as special. As such, an individual grows in his/her own personal way as this lifestyle completely changes you.
Providing EP in India, the way it is meant to be, will change the way security operates in this country. It will elevate the industry to another level, making more clients want this type of professional service, as well as give people a reason to work towards wanted to establishing themselves as Executive Protection Agents and Officers. We can shatter the glass ceiling, making this a Career industry and not one to be looked down on. This can also be the perfect fallback for those retiring from the Police or Armed forces who wish to continue to operate and shift to a civilian environment.
EP agents, who have the relevant training, certification, license, and experience, will definitely get to see a monetary benefit in the country. Given that their particular expertise would be an asset to a client, the payments to them would also be far better than what others would earn, allowing them also to adjust that with the investment they make to get themselves trained and certified.
The more trained and resourced agents you have on the ground, the more beneficial they are as a second rung to Law Enforcement and the security of the country. They also act as eyes and ears to the nation and can step in to assist and backup when required. Developing assets is always beneficial. — Godrej Rustumji
How does operating in your country differ from working anywhere else?
Executive protection in India differs sharply from Western models. Globally, EP operations often benefit from robust surveillance infrastructure, efficient emergency services, and strong law enforcement coordination. In India, however, EP personnel must navigate congested urban environments, underdeveloped CCTV networks (only ~30% urban coverage), and highly variable local police support. Bureaucracy and fragmented law enforcement across 29 states complicate multi-city operations.
Public spaces are loosely controlled, requiring protectors to be tactically discreet yet culturally aware. Unlike in the West, where technology-led protection dominates, Indian EP relies more on human intelligence, advanced reconnaissance, and real-time decision-making. The ability to blend in, negotiate through informal systems, and adapt instantly is critical. Operating in India is not about following rigid SOPs—it’s about understanding dynamic local realities and responding with flexibility and foresight. — Major Sagar Lonkar
What are the unique tools and tech you carry to help you work in your country?
Operating in India demands a hybrid approach to protection—one that blends traditional skills with modern tools. Given the unpredictable environment, CPOs must carry a carefully selected set of gear that enables both low-profile protection and rapid response.
Some of the essential tools and technologies we regularly carry include:
- Two-way communication systems: Encrypted walkie-talkies with earpieces, backup mobile phones, and secure apps like Signal and WhatsApp for discreet communication.
- Bullet-resistant gear: Lightweight bulletproof vests and discreet bulletproof blankets for vehicle or venue protection.
- Expandable baton: For non-lethal defense and crowd control.
- High-intensity tactical flashlight: Doubles as a tool for disorientation and low-light maneuvering.
- Legal-length tactical knife: Carried in compliance with Indian law, used as a last-resort tool.
- Licensed firearm: Only when required and permitted, based on threat level and local law.
- Google Maps and live traffic apps: For real-time navigation and rerouting.
- Body-worn camera: Used selectively for documentation and review of critical incidents.
- Advanced medical kit with AED: Carried by at least one trained team member.
- Official ID cards: For quick verification with local authorities.
- SOP handbook and briefing notes: Includes evacuation plans, protocols, and location-specific guidelines.
- Emergency contact and escalation list: For coordination with local law enforcement, hospitals, and the client’s family or team.
The combination of these tools allows the CPO team to operate efficiently while maintaining a low profile, especially in volatile or high-traffic zones. — Yasin Dunge
What kind of training or certification do you need to be working in your country?
In the current scenario, the Industry in my country has unfortunately not had the foresight or the will to emphasize Executive Protection. Their sole focus is on the guarding segment and making money. We do not have the right people at the helm and nor do we have an industry that is pragmatic or enthusiastic in formulating the right approach towards EP. WE DO NOT have any standardized training formats, no evaluation procedures, nor any licensing. The industry is just marching to the beat of its own drums, and this, in the long run, will prove fatal. This is also a reason why most people do not see themselves in this segment. The only requirement there is, is aimed at those providing manpower, and they require the PSARA license.
In my opinion, there should be a Set Training Format for EP that takes into consideration subjects that need to be taught (theory and practical), time duration for the program, standardized exams conducted by a central body, and licensing of those who graduate. We should all be badged and come under a central database, and the law should only allow those who have these credentials to operate. In the same manner, those operating businesses and providing EP services should also have to be trained and certified. — Godrej Rustumji
Where do you stand in the discussion regarding firearms and whether to carry or not to carry on assignments?
In India, carrying firearms for executive protection is heavily regulated and often impractical. Under the Arms Act, civilian firearm ownership is rare (only about 3.4 million license holders in a population of 1.4 billion), and licensing is restricted to low-caliber weapons.
Private EP professionals typically operate unarmed, relying on non-lethal tools and situational awareness. Only government agencies like the NSG or SPG carry arms during high-threat operations for Z+ category protectees. I believe that in India, the emphasis should remain on proactive threat mitigation, intelligence gathering, and de-escalation. Firearms are a last resort, not a primary tool. Given the legal, logistical, and reputational risks of weapon use, EP in India must prioritize strategic planning, discretion, and layered non-kinetic responses over armed confrontation—ensuring security without provocation or escalation. — Major Sagar Lonkar
Can you share a memorable experience or case where your skills as a bodyguard were put to the test in your country?
One of the most memorable and challenging assignments was protecting a high-profile female celebrity during a private visit to Haji Ali Dargah in Mumbai. The visit was scheduled on a Friday, which is traditionally the most crowded day at this religious site. Her wish was to complete the visit discreetly, without public attention or media coverage.
Planning Phase:
- Our team conducted advance reconnaissance a week in advance and again a day prior, analyzing crowd patterns, entry points, and possible exit strategies.
- A 5-member close protection team was selected—all in plain clothes to blend into the environment.
- No flashy vehicles or entourage were used. We hired two local taxis for ingress and egress.
- The client was briefed in detail and provided with a neutral-colored abaya for anonymity.
- Multiple evacuation plans were drafted based on different threat scenarios.
Execution:
As an owner of Men in black global protection services, I always have to think twice from a brand perspective and the best way to look after the safety of my clients.
Looking at both sides, we did it in the MIB way.
So we arrived at the location in two taxis. The client, accompanied by two CPOs, entered the pathway leading to the dargah (approx. 700 meters on foot). A flexible “box” formation was used, occasionally shifting into an arrowhead to maneuver through denser crowds. The aim was to appear as regular visitors.
While the initial visit went smoothly, during the prayer, the client briefly lifted her face covering. Within moments, a few devotees recognized her, and the situation began to escalate with people approaching for selfies and videos.
Evacuation:
We immediately initiated Evac Plan B. The client changed into a second abaya of a different color and was discreetly placed into a wheelchair (carried by a local attendant on standby). We quickly wheeled her back the 700 meters to the waiting taxis and exited the area without drawing attention.
Outcome:
- The client completed her spiritual visit safely.
- No negative media exposure, injury, or confrontation occurred.
- The incident highlighted that in India, managing crowds is often more challenging than handling direct threats.
- The success reinforced the principle that “Proper Planning and Preparation Prevents Poor Performance”—the 7Ps of close protection. — Yasin Dunge
For their participation in the series, EP Wired would like to thank Godrej Rustumji, Yasin Dunge, and Major Sagar Lonkar.
