As the world commemorates the first anniversary of 26/11, discussions over counter-terror mechanism have once again come to the fore. In an interview with Indianexpress.com?s Purabi Bora, Jorgen Philip Sorensen, founder, G4S, the world?s largest security solutions group with presence in six continents and an employee base of 5,85,000, says use of state-of-the art technologies , involvement of private security agencies and setting up of a n autonomous department entrusted with homeland security will certainly go a long way in augmenting the various steps already taken by the Indian government. Excerpts:

In the light of the 26/11 attacks, do you think the situation calls for an integrated anti-terror mechanism in India, using modern-day technologies like ?the ring of steel?, the security and surveillance cordon surrounding London?

India has braved terrorist attacks ever since 1989. However, 26/11 was different. It carried heavy traces of Al-Qaeda influence and ideology. This was most evident from the level of motivation and planning, as also the fact that western and Israeli nationals were specifically targeted for the first time in India. More than any of the previous terrorist strikes, 26/11 drove home the need for an integrated anti-terror mechanism. In that sense, among others, 26/11 was to India, what 9/11 was to the US. The government has already taken a number of steps for establishing an integrated anti-terror mechanism, including the setting up of a National Investigation Agency (NIA), upgrading the intelligence collection, analysis and coordination apparatus, and beefing up surveillance capabilities along our nearly 7,500-km coast line. Similarly, the police modernisation process has been speeded up, with special emphasis on deployment of sophisticated security equipment in Delhi and the other metros. Arrangements for a public-private partnership, wherein private security agencies could play a useful role by supplementing the police force, are also under consideration. G4S is well aware of ?The ring of steel? security cordon around London. In fact, G4S were among the main sponsors of the ?London First? event, recently organised in London, with a view to sharing the experience of the 9/11 attack, the London bombings, and 26/11, and working out strategies for meeting similar threats in the future.

Do you think India needs to set up an autonomous agency to tackle terror attacks/threats on the line of the United States Department of Homeland Security?

Following his recent visit to the US, home minister, P Chidambaram, had stated that an organisation on the lines of the US Department of Homeland Security would also be set up in India. An autonomous department entrusted with homeland security would certainly go a long way in augmenting the various steps already taken by the government. Given its 20 years experience in India, and its access to state-of-the art technologies, G4S will be more than willing to contribute appropriately towards the efficiency of the proposed department for Homeland Security.

9/11 changed world?s perception of terror. Mumbai attack was also first-of-its-kind in many ways than one. Since anti-terror activities cost governments billions of dollars every year, should all nations now keep budgetary allocations to fight terror?

9/11 demonstrated the diabolical intentions and sweeping reach of terrorist outfits. It certainly changed the world?s perception of terror, paving the way for intelligence sharing, and coordinated actions among countries wedded to democracy, summed up in the concept of ?International war against terrorism?. At present, countries already allocate large sums to their defence, police, para-military forces and this includes combating terrorism within such budgets. A separate budget allocation or a ?terror fund? is a matter for each country to decide according to its own perception and assessment.

What special initiatives your organisation is taking to tackle terror or any exceptional situation?

Post 9/11, security levels have increased manifold. We are looking forward to additional arms acquisition to meet the demand. Our company has all the capabilities in 150 countries where we have presence. However, in addition to increase the service delivery effectiveness, we need to build our technical expertise. Industry needs to change and regulations need to change in order to grow this industry.

What specialised training G4S gives to its staff to handle crisis emanating from terror-related activities including operational support?

We provide a compulsory 20 days basic/classroom/ practical plus on job training to our staff. We have 5 training academies and provide drills for gurads. Interestingly, every staff has to stand as a guard for at least one day to understand the nature of job. From HR perspective, we inculcate sense of ownership to all our security staff in the organization. Post-26/11, we have incorporated several changes to ensure better delivery of services to our esteemed customers who bestow faith on us.

Isn?t the growing popularity of high-tech surveillance gadgets limiting the need for security guards?

Popularity of high tech surveillance gadgets that may limit the need for security guards, but this has led to increase in better service delivery. Moreover, with the cash-in circulation growing at a large pace, security companies have integrated technology along with human guarding to enhance their quality. People want a sense of feeling of being secure, which could effectively be done only by proper management of man and machine.

What?s your forecast for G4S in the next five years? What do you think are the key growth drivers?

We expect to double our growth in next 5 years. Outsourcing of security system would be the key growth driver in present times. India is poised to be one of the leading security industry markets in the world. Security is a specialised business and it helps in business growth.

What changes and improvement you want to bring in the Indian security market?

Security legislation Act was passed in 2005 in India. Private security agencies need empowerment through associations such as CAPSI. Armed licences, nationalised licensing system etc has to come of age and we are taking these issues through CAPSI. After evolution of this industry, maturity is visible but the government should support us.