Who does not know Kunwar Vikram Singh – the Chairman of the Central Association of Private Security Industry (CAPSI)? Does he need any introduction? He is globally renowned – and a glaring figure in India’s private security industry. He is a true visionary leader, a writer and a Fauji at Heart. His recently authored book called ‘The Protectors’ is so insightful and has been a huge success. The book delves into the lives and challenges of security professionals, and offers an in-depth look at their dedication and role in society. As the Chairman of CAPSI, Kunwar Saheb leads an organization that represents India’s private security sector, which employs millions of people across the country.
Central Association of Private Security Industry (CAPSI) is an apex body of the private security industry representing the wider interests of 10 million guardsmen & women and 35 thousand private security agencies operating pan India. This preeminent organization for security professionals made its unpretentious beginning in 2005 and has emerged as an ‘elite association’ of nationally and internationally renowned security professionals managing world’s largest workforce. CAPSI’s governing processes are being guided by an eminent Board of Governors having former army generals, veteran police and para-military officers, high ranking intelligence professionals also from Central Bureau of Investigation, and premier governmental intelligence agencies and renowned risk managers. The executive leadership of CAPSI is provided by security entrepreneurs who have achieved excellence in the business of security management in India and abroad. The unique bouquet of experience and entrepreneurship has taken CAPSI to its new height within a period of 20 years, especially after the enactment of the Private Security Agencies Regulation Act 2005.
With decades of experience, Mr. Singh has been instrumental in shaping India’s private security sector including the regulatory framework and professional standards of the sector. SecurityLinkIndia is honoured and privileged to recently have an opportunity to speak to him, here are some excerpts:
Can you share in brief your journey as a private security professional and chairman of CAPSI?
My journey as a private security professional and Chairman of CAPSI has been quite fascinating. After leaving the Army, I started a company called Lancer Security and Investigation in 1980. Around that time, the government decided to host the 9 Asian Games in Delhi They hired me to plan the security for the event. During that period, I realized the importance of having robust private security to manage such large-scale events. This led me to form a company that provided security services for the 9 Asian Games, marking the beginning of my career as a private security entrepreneur.
Subsequently, between 1990 and 1996, there was significant growth in private security agencies. During this time, I felt the need to bring together security entrepreneurs to ad dress common challenges. Most of these entrepreneurs were ex-Army officers like me. As a result, we formed the Association of Security Organizations of India, where I became the president. We began addressing issues such as wages, Provident Fund (PF), and other labour-related concerns
Later, the government decided to regulate the private security sector and introduced the Private Security Agency Regulation Act in Parliament. Recognizing the importance of preparing for future challenges in compliance and legislation, we saw the need for a Pan-India association to unite the industry, which was largely unorganized at the time.
This led to the formation of the Central Association of Private Security Industry. I was initially elected as the convener of CAPSI (Central Association of Private Security Agencies) Eventually, I was appointed as the chairman of the association
How has the private security industry transformed in India over the last two decades?
The transformation of the private security industry in India has been gradual yet remarkable. Initially, the concept of private security was limited to hiring a chowkidar often a Nepalese individual or some ex-army personnel to guard properties However, over time, internal security emerged as a significant concern.
The government faced increasing challenges in providing adequate security to industrial establishments, residential colonies, and smaller entities. This gap in internal security created a pressing need for organized private security systems. The rapid development of infrastructure across the country airports, ports, residential colonies, factories in remote areas, and other critical zones further fuelled the demand for private security services.
Can you throw light on the industry’s economic impact and its contribution to employment?
The private security industry in India plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth and employment, emerging as one of the largest and fastest-growing sectors in the country. With the rising demand for safety due to urbanization, industrial expansion, and increasing awareness of security, the industry generates significant revenue and contributes substantially to the nation’s GDP By safeguarding businesses, infrastructure, and public spaces, the sector enables other industries such as banking, retail, and manufacturing to operate efficiently, fostering economic stability Moreover, the industry’s adoption of advanced technologies like Al-powered surveillance and biometric systems has spurred innovation and created new opportunities for technological advancement in Indi.
In terms of employment, the private security sector is a key contributor, providing jobs to millions across urban and rural areas. It offers accessible entry-level opportunities, reducing unemployment while serving as a crucial source of livelihood for individuals with minimal education or training. Additionally, many security companies invest in skill development, offering training in areas such as emergency response, technology usage, and conflict resolution, which enhances workforce quality. The increasing participation of women in the industry further promotes inclusivity and gender diversity in employment.
How has CAPSI contributed to the development and regulation of the private security industry?
The Central Association of Private Security Industry T (CAPSI) has played a pivotal role in the development and regulation of the private security industry in India. Governed by the PSAR Act, the industry benefited greatly from CAPSI’s efforts to drive self-regulation and improvement. The initiative began during the tenure of Home Minister, Shivraj Patil, who emphasized the need for the industry to enhance its services through self-discipline. He stressed to deliver better services and remain competitive, private security firms must focus on training their workforce and adhering to labour laws and compliance standards.
“The transformation of the private security has been industry in India gradual yet remark-able. Initially, the concept of private security was limited to hiring a chowkidar- often a Nepalese individual or some ex-army personnel -to guard properties. However, over time, internal security emerged as a significant concern“
CAPSI facilitated numerous meetings at both state and central levels, inviting experts from various departments such as labour and finance to provide guidance on regulatory compliance. This engagement ensured alignment with government expectations and smooth implementation of legislative requirements. The organization worked closely with the Ministry of Home Affairs and state-level police departments to address initial challenges, such as licensing issues and inspections, particularly the rigorous police inspections. We played a crucial role in coordinating with law enforcement and advocating for collaborative hand-holding during this evolutionary phase of the private security industry. Continuous interaction with the Ministry of Home Affairs allowed CAPSI to raise issues related to the PSAR Act and regulations. The government recognized the significance of the private security sector and encouraged us to take the lead in educating and motivating its members, minimizing the regulatory burden on government agencies. We organized conferences across India to train its members on best practices in security services, including specialized training and adapting to emerging security challenges.
The organization also highlighted the critical role of the private security industry in bridging the gap between the public and the police, given the significant disparity in their ratios. We emphasized improving management systems and ensuring compliance with regulations, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Over time, CAPSI’s consistent advocacy led the Ministry of Home Affairs to introduce amendments to the PSARA rules, which provided much-needed flexibility and comfort for businesses. While changes to the Act required parliamentary approval, modifications to the rules were collaboratively implemented, significantly benefiting the private security industry and its members. CAPSI’s efforts have been instrumental in shaping the sector into a well-regulated and efficient industry in India.
What are the major regulatory challenges the sector faces today?
The private security sector in India faces several regulatory challenges that hinder its growth and efficiency, One major issue is the Private Security Agencies Regulation Act (PSARA) licensing process, which is often cumbersome and varies across states. These inconsistencies create delays and difficulties, particularly for agencies operating across multiple regions. Furthermore, the sector is governed by multiple laws, including labour laws, tax regulations, and state-specific rules, resulting in a fragmented regulatory framework that complicates seamless compliance.
Skill development and training standards also present a significant challenge. Although PSARA mandates training for security personnel, the lack of uniform standards across states means that many agencies struggle to provide adequate training, especially in advanced areas like technology-enabled security solutions and cybersecurity. Adding to the complexity is the presence of an unorganized sector, where many agencies bypass licensing and compliance requirements. This informal operation undermines the credibility of legitimate agencies and hampers industry professionalism and growth.
The financial strain caused by high taxation is another hurdle. The private security sector faces a significant financial burden due to the requirement to pay an 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST) in advance. As per the prevailing guideline, this payment must be made even before the client, referred to as the principal employer, settles the bill for the services provided by the Private Security Agency (PSA). As a result, agencies are forced to bear the upfront tax costs, which can strain their financial resources. This challenge is particularly acute for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as it increases their operating expenses and makes it harder for them to remain competitive in the market
Coordination with law enforcement and other government bodies remains inconsistent, further complicating the sector’s operations. At the same time, the increasing reliance on technology such as surveillance systems and biometric solutions is not supported by a robust regulatory framework. This gap raises concerns about data privacy, cybersecurity, and compliance in the adoption of such innovations
What is your comment on PSAR Act as on date, and amendment thereof?
As Chairman of CAPSI, I view A the Private Security Agencies Regulation Act (PSARA), 2005 as a comerstone in the journey to formalize and professionalize the private security sector in India While the Act has laid a robust foundation by regulating licensing, mandating training, and ensuring compliance with labour laws, it requires urgent amendments to address the evolving needs of the industry. The licensing process remains a major bottleneck, with varying timelines and standards across states, hindering seamless operations for multi-state agencies. Training standards under PSARA, though essential, are outdated and fail to address emerging challenges such as cybersecurity, Al-based surveillance, and technological advancements in security, CAPSI has consistently advocated for a simplified, uniform, and technology-driven regulatory framework that aligns with global best practices, ensuring that private security agencies can effectively contribute to national safety, employment, and economic growth. The Act’s vision must evolve to reflect the modern realities of this indispensable sector.
“The Central Association of Pri-vate Security Industry (CAPSI) has played a pivotal role in the development and regulation of the private security industry in India. Governed by the PSAR Act, the industry benefited greatly from CAPSI’s efforts to drive self-regulation and improvement. The initiative began during the tenure of Home Minister, Shivraj Patil, who emphasized the need for the industry to enhance its ser-vices through self-discipline. He stressed to deliver better services and remain competitive, private security firms must focus on training their work-force and adhering to labour laws and compliance standards“
Technology today is paramount. How is technology like AI and IoT impacting the private security services and how is CAPSI getting prepared for it?
Technology has become an integral part of the private security sector, revolutionizing the way security services are delivered. A term coined to describe this integration is man-tech security, which emphasizes the synergy between skilled personnel and advanced technological systems. This approach requires security personnel to be adept at handling modern gadgets and innovations, a transition the industry has embraced effectively under the guidance of CAPSI.
Technological advancements in areas like access control, fire detection, and surveillance – such as innovative CCTV systems and biometric access control – have significantly enhanced the efficiency of security operations. However, adapting these innovations for security guards, many of whom have basic educational qualifications, posed a considerable challenge. To address this, CAPSI and security agencies, often led by former military officers, have prioritized training and development.
In-house training centers have been established, often in collaboration with technology manufacturers, to equip guards with the skills needed to operate devices like handheld metal detectors, X-ray machines, bomb detectors, fire detection systems, and more. CAPSI also played a critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic, swiftly training personnel to handle new equipment like temperature scanners and other health monitoring devices, ensuring seamless operations even in challenging times.
Pre-induction training for guards has become a standard practice in technology-intensive environments, enabling them to efficiently use sophisticated equipment. CAPSI’s consistent efforts in conducting seminars, workshops, and training sessions have significantly improved the technological proficiency of security personnel. This ongoing process of training and motivation ensures that guards are not only equipped to use cutting-edge technology but can also leverage it to provide the highest levels of safety and security.
How is it purposeful to create an AI (Cybersecurity) Task Force for the PSI?
Establishing an AI (Cybersecurity) Task Force for the Private Security Industry (PSI) is essential to address the complex challenges brought about by digitalization and cyber threats. The integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence into the PSI significantly strengthens its ability to safeguard individuals, businesses, and critical infrastructure from increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks.
The primary benefits of such a task force include its capacity for proactive threat mitigation, and training and skill development. Further, the task force will play a pivotal role in strengthening digital infrastructure security. The task force also holds the potential to shape the industry’s future through policy and framework development, by collaborating with government bodies, industry leaders, and technology experts.
Kindly throw some light on CAPSI initiative of National Citizen Security Culture.
The CAPSI initiative National Citizens Security Culture aims to nurture a culture of safety, security, and responsible citizenship within communities. It seeks to reduce violence, enhance public safety, and build trust between citizens and law enforcement, aligning with broader goals of national security, public wellbeing, and sustainable development
“Technology has become an integral part of the Private Security sector, revolutionizing the way security services are delivered. A term coined to describe this integration is man-tech security, which emphasizes the synergy between skilled personnel and advanced techno-logical systems. This approach requires security personnel to be adept at handling mod-ern gadgets and innovations, a transition the industry has embraced effectively under the guidance of CAPSI“
What steps are being taken to improve the training, welfare, and working conditions of private security personnel?
Efforts to improve the training, welfare, and working conditions of India’s private security personnel are being undertaken comprehensively by government bodies, industry associations, and other stakeholders. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has initiated the standardization of training to align with international standards, entrusting the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to develop ISO-compliant guidelines. A panel comprising key stakeholders, including FICCI, CII, and various ministries, is overseeing this process, ensuring the global readiness of Indian security professionals. Additionally, CAPSI and the Quality Council of India (QCI) have introduced a star rating system for security agencies to promote operational excellence and smarter service delivery.
In terms of welfare and working conditions, significant strides have been made. Security guards, previously categorized as ‘chowkidars,’ are now classified as skilled and highly skilled workers, leading to uniform wages under the Code on Wages. This initiative addresses regional pay disparities and ensures fair compensation. Health and social security have also been prioritized, with all guards now having access to ESI (Employees’ State Insurance) cards for healthcare and hospitalization. They are entitled to Provident Fund (PF) benefits, enabling financial security and access to housing loans, along with gratuity and pension schemes that further enhance their quality of life.
These initiatives collectively aim to transform the private security sector into a well-regulated, attractive profession. By ensuring standardized training, fair wages, and comprehensive social benefits, the government and stakeholders are fostering better working conditions and global employability for security personnel. The collaboration between BIS, QCI, and CAPSI ensures robust regulation and service quality, setting a solid foundation for the industry’s growth and its contributions to national security.
Recently you have signed a MoU with the Security Association Singapore. How would that enhance the status of PSI in India?
The recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Security Association Singapore (SAS) and Central Association of Private Security Industry (CAPSI) is a transformative milestone for India’s Private Security Industry (PSI). This collaboration not only bridges Indian security practices with global standards but also paves the way for innovation, skill development, and international recognition.
The alliance introduces a new era of international standards in India’s security landscape. By adopting Singapore’s best practices, known for their cutting-edge security innovation and management, Indian agencies can now elevate their training methodologies and operational protocols.
The MoU also strengthens global employability for our security workforce. By ensuring compliance with international protocols, Indian security personnel and agencies enhance their credibility, becoming preferred choices for multinational clients. Besides, technology integration takes center stage. Singapore’s expertise in advanced surveillance systems, threat detection, and security management introduces a wave of modernization to Indian security firms.
“Establishing (Cybersecurity) the Private an Al Task Force for Security Industry (PSI) is essential complex about by to address the challenges brought digitalization and cyber threats. The integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence into the PSI significantly strengthens its ability to safeguard individuals, businesses, and critical infrastructure from increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks“
Kindly explain in brief the CAPSI Certified Company Certification, and its significance.
The CAPSI Certified Company Certification is a hallmark of excellence for private security companies in India. It signifies that a security agency meets stringent standards of quality, professionalism, and operational efficiency as set by the Central Association of Private Security Industry (CAPSI). This certification evaluates companies based on parameters like service delivery, training quality, regulatory compliance, and ethical practices. This certification doesn’t just recognize a company’s capabilities – it raises the bar for the entire sector. By promoting high standards, it ensures that private security agencies contribute effectively to national security and public trust. It’s essentially a win-win for everyone involved – clients, companies, and the industry at large. How does the recent code of wages impact the employability of the security professional? The Code of Wages Act marks a transformative and progressive step toward resolving long-standing issues faced by the private security industry, particularly concerning the timely clearance of payments. One of the most pressing challenges for security agencies has been the delayed processing of invoices by principal employers, often stretching over two to three months. This persistent delay has caused significant financial strain on security companies, adversely impacting their operations and the livelihoods of security personnel.
To address this issue, the government has introduced a provision under the Code of Wages Act mandating that all principal employer’s clear invoices by the 7th of each month. This critical change ensures that security agencies can disburse salaries to their workforce by the 10th of every month without delay. The streamlined payment cycle has the potential to revolutionize the sector by fostering financial stability and improving operational efficiency.
This development underscores the government’s commitment to professionalizing the private security sector and improving the welfare of its workforce. It empowers security personnel by ensuring financial dignity, elevates the sector’s credibility, and positions it as an integral part of the nation’s security framework.
How does CAPSI intend to support the cadre of Territorial Army and Agniveers and what are your schemes in that line?
CAPSI’s proposal to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) puts forward a compelling idea to strengthen the recruitment process for the Territorial Army (TA). It suggests that individuals seeking to join the TA should have a minimum of three years of service as a Security Guard or Supervisor in a PSARA-recognized security company. This would be validated by a certificate issued by the security company, which would be counter-signed by CAPSI chapters, ensuring authenticity. This new criterion will not only benefit the Territorial Army but also elevate the private security industry by providing a steady pool of well-trained, disciplined candidates.
For the Agniveers, CAPSI recognizes the immense potential these young warriors bring to the nation and its security apparatus. Their training, resilience, and determination make them an asset to the private security industry. Our approach focuses on offering them tailored transition programs that highlight their unique strengths and offer guidance on how to channel their skills effectively into security-related roles. We are working to create a robust network of security agencies that will prioritize Agniveers in their recruitment efforts.
Additionally, CAPSI is introducing specialized certification courses, leadership development, and skills enhancement programs that will further empower Agniveers, ensuring they are equipped for the challenges and opportunities in the security industry. By creating a structured support system, CAPSI is not only helping Agniveers secure a bright future but also strengthening the private security sector with a pool of dedicated, skilled individuals who have already proven their commitment to service.
You have recently devised the formation of Women Security Task Force. What do you aim at?
The formation of the Women Security Task Force is a strategic initiative aimed at ensuring the safety and security of women in all aspects of life. Our primary goal is to create a dedicated team of highly trained professionals who can respond effectively to the specific safety needs of women. This includes providing specialized support in handling cases of harassment, domestic violence, and other gender-based crimes.
Through this task force, we aim to not only protect women but also empower them by offering training in self-defense, legal rights, and safety awareness.
What is City Security Council, and what does it target at?
The City Security Council is a pioneering initiative aimed at creating a collaborative framework to enhance urban safety and security. This council brings together various stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, private security firms, local government bodies, and community organizations, to work in unison towards building safer urban environments. The primary objective is to foster cooperation and coordination between all these entities to address the dynamic security challenges faced by cities today.
How does the private security industry collaborate with government agencies to ensure national security? Can you share an ardent example of successful public private partnerships in security?
In India, the collaboration between the private security industry and government agencies plays a vital role in strengthening national security, especially in areas like safeguarding critical infrastructure, enhancing cybersecurity, and improving disaster response. Private security firms work closely with government bodies such as the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) to provide security services at key sites, including airports and ports, helping to mitigate threats like terrorism and cyber-attacks. They also contribute significantly to cybersecurity efforts by partnering with organizations like CERT-In, providing their expertise in threat intelligence and technology to bolster national defenses. Additionally, private security teams gather valuable local intelligence, which they share with law enforcement, helping to prevent potential incidents.
The public-private partnership extends to crisis situations as well, with private security firms assisting government agencies during emergencies like natural disasters or pandemics. A prime example of this collaboration is seen at airports, where private security personnel work alongside CISF to ensure comprehensive security through joint efforts in crowd management and surveillance. Similarly, in the realm of cybersecurity, the National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC) collaborates with private companies to safeguard critical national infrastructure. This partnership significantly enhances India’s ability to address evolving security challenges, combining the operational strengths of the private sector with the strategic oversight of government agencies for a more robust security framework.
Kindly elaborate Private Security Day and its significance for PSI.
The inception of Private Security Day on December 4th finds its roots in a pivotal moment in the history of India’s Private Security Industry (PSI). On 4 December 2009, Smt. Pratibha Patil, the then President of India, graced the CAPSI (Central Association of Private Security Industry) conference with her esteemed presence. This occasion marked a significant milestone for the PSI, as the conference provided a platform to highlight the crucial role that private security plays in ensuring the safety and security of the nation. Her address provided the catalyst for celebrating December 4th as Private Security Day, a day dedicated to honoring the efforts and contributions of security guards, supervisors, and other professionals in the private security sector.
Drone and counter drone mechanisms are gaining pace also for security and surveillance purpose. How does CAPSI recommend and devise the PSI for the purpose?
The CAPSI seeks to enhance the integration of drone technologies within the private security sector, focusing on both drone deployment and counter-drone systems. CAPSI advocates for policy development & regulation, drone integration, counter-drone technologies, training & certification, cybersecurity, collaboration with authorities, ethical & privacy standards, research & innovation.
CAPSI’s strategic framework combines technological innovation with stringent security protocols to ensure safe, ethical, and efficient use of drones in private security. A pivotal aspect of this approach is the establishment of the CAPSI Task Force on Drone Warriors, a specialized unit dedicated to exploring cutting-edge drone technologies, formulating policy strategies, and counteracting drone-related security threats.
What is your long-term vision for CAPSI and the private security industry in India?
As the Chairman of the Central Association of Private Security Industry (CAPSI), my long-term vision for both CAPSI and the broader private security industry in India is centered on fostering a future where security is not only proactive but also innovative, inclusive, and deeply integrated into the fabric of our national development. Our industry stands at the cusp of profound transformation, and it is my firm belief that we must adapt, evolve, and lead the way for a safer, more secure society.
What motivates you to continue working for the betterment of the private security industry?
As the Chairman of the Central Association of Private Security Industry (CAPSI), what motivates me most profoundly to continue working for the betterment of our industry is the unyielding belief in the transformative power of security. Security is not just about protecting assets or ensuring safety; it is about empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and fostering an environment in which society can thrive.
Every day, I am driven by the knowledge that our work goes beyond the ordinary – it touches lives, builds trust, and enables growth. As I witness the growing complexities of modern life, from rapid technological advancements to new security challenges, I am constantly reminded of the pivotal role our industry plays in shaping the future of our nation. The sense of responsibility I feel, to ensure that our security personnel are well-equipped, well-trained, and well-regulated, fuels my passion to continually strive for excellence within the private security sector.
