New Paradigms for Loss Prevention in the Digital Era

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Role of Safety, Security & Loss Prevention - Supporting Development Plans and Economic Growth of India

Role of Security Agneices in Development of Sucure and Safet Environment

The Home Minister Mr. Sushilkumar Shinde has said that with the change of internal security scenario in the past decade, role of private security assumes great importance as the challenges have multiplied.

Inaugurating 22nd International Seminar organized by International Institute of Security and Safety Management in New Delhi on 22 September 2012, the Home Minister said with the ever increasing demand of Private security in view of increasing threat perception government was contemplating to give larger role to private agency. However "private security cannot do maintenance of law and order which is the job of the Police." Mr. Shinde said. Yet, there is always room for better interaction and coordination between the Police which is the arm of the government and private security agencies to meet the renewed challenges on internal security front including that of terrorism. "I was discussing with my officers the other day, why not involve private security agencies for interactions on internal security matters. Mr. Shinde briefly touched the demands of people engaged in private security agency particularly relating to the wages and provident fund. >

Complimenting the IISSM, the Home Minister said "I am glad that IISSM is giving training for the security personnel and officers which is a strength in combating threat including threat from terrorism.  He assured IISSM of extending support and look in points raised by IISSM including effective implementation of PSRA Act.

The IISSM has requested the Home Minister to consider issuance of arm license to private security agencies. Mr. R C Sharma, (Chairman), Mr. R K Sinha (Executive Chairman), Mr. G B Singh, (President) and Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Prem Sagar, DG of IISSM welcomed the Home Minister.

The Union Home ministry has invited representative of International Institute of Security and Safety Management, New Delhi for discussion points raised at the international seminar held in New Delhi about role of private security in India.  The IISSM has given a memorandum to Mr. Sushilkumar Shinde regarding problems facing the security industry.

Amendments of arms license act and effect implementation of PSARA Act of few of the points have risen in the memorandum. This was disclosed on Thursday by Mr. R. K. Sinha, Executive Chairman, IISSM.
The first panel discussion was on PSARA Act which was moderated by Sanjeev Srivastava, senior journalist former Editor of BBC India.  The post lunch panel discussion was on Disaster Mitigation and Loss Prevention with Public Private Partnership. The moderator was Swapan Dasgupta, noted political commentator.

On the second day of three day seminar on Disaster Mitigation and Loss Prevention through Security, Safety and Fire Prevention A panel of experts discussed the issue of compliance issues and changing face of Indian private security industry. High GDP growth, challenging relationships with neighbors, outdated equipments and systems, increased spending on modernizing military capabilities and infrastructure, Focus on creating and enhancing support infrastructure, emerging public-private participation opportunities were deliberated at length in the seminar.

Mr. Chandan Mitra, MP and Editor-in- Chief, The Pioneer moderated the discussion while Ms. Aditi Phadnis of Business Standard was moderator of the discussion on Managing cash by banks in the post lunch session. It is a major area of security risk as it was recently witnessed in the major heist in Delhi. A vehicle carrying cash whether in an armed or an ordinary van is always vulnerable ambush by criminal. There has to be comprehensive security while carry cash and transit, said Mr. Uday Singh, CEO, SIS.
 The corporate world today is concerned about increasing incidents of industrial espionage, a corporate fraud that is costing industry several hundred crores of rupees every year. It is not only of theft of data and business plan of rival industries but also planting spies in the competitors company. Speaking at concluding session of three days International seminar on Disaster Mitigation & Loss Prevention through Security, Safety & Fire Prevention, a panel of experts suggested involving code of conduct and ethics for private security agencies.

Mr. T K Arun, Editor ( opinion) of Economic Times and Uttam Sengupa, Deputy Editor of Outlook magazine were the moderator on the third and concluding session of the seminar.

Many delegates of across the country and from abroad wanted a proper status for private security agency which is not recognized as an industry. More than 30 Lacs people are employed in India as private security guards, inform Mr. R. C. Sharma, Chairman, IISSM in his concluding remarks.

Mr. R. K. Sinha, Executive Chairman, IISSM was of the view that people involved in private security agencies should take incentive in creating better professional environment to work as second line of defense for internal security. Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Prem Sagar, DG, IISSM stressed the need of the hour that was to focus on human relations. A better human relationship between the employees and employers will automatically raise the standard of service.

Participating in panel discuss on industrial fraud and corporate espionage experts from private detective agency like Mr. Garry Singh said that modern technology was a double age show while it enabled corporate world it also work as theft of data and business and rival companies. According to one estimate, more than 900 billion dollars are involved in corporate fraud in all worlds over.

As in every year, the competition for Annual Professional Awards was quite stiff. The winners in 2012 were as follows:

1. Best Security Professional of the Year - Col RS Bhandari(Retd), General Manager, Security & Exchange Board of India, Mumbai.
2. Emerging Security Professional of the Year - Mr Jitendra Vaidya, Executive Vice President - Infrastructure and Network Management, Yes Bank Limited , Mumbai.
3. Security Operations Manager of the Year – Mr. Shamanth P Gowda, Chamber of Security & Allied Services, Bangalore.
4. Best case Study Award - Col RS Bhandari(Retd), General Manager, Security & Exchange Board of India, Mumbai.

Some of the eminent speakers touching on various aspects of private sector security industry were like:

The 21st IISSM Annual conference organized by International Institute of Security & Safety Management successfully concluded in Goa. The two day conference has drawn participation from global leaders, think tanks and security professionals from around the world. This year the theme being “User expectations from multi faceted private security industry”, has most appropriately addressed the current scenario in the private security industry. This year the participants have come from as far as USA, UK, Israel, Singapore, South Africa, Australia, Bangladesh and Mauritius besides from all over India.

Addressing the delegates at the Inaugural Session, Mr R C Sharma, Chairman, IISSM thanked the participants for having so overwhelmingly joining the two day seminar. Mr R K Sinha, Executive Chairman, IISSM and Chairman & Managing Director - SIS India said that the IISSM in its endeavor to service the industry, has planned to conduct many short term courses meeting the specific needs of the industry. In 2012 IISSM has planned 46 short term focused programs at various locations.

Addressing the delegates in the Inaugural Session as the Keynote Speaker, Lt Gen SK Sinha, PVSM, Retd. Former Vice Chief of Army, Ambassador to Nepal and Former Governor of Assam and Jammu & Kashmir recalled his long association with Goa. He said the weapons of mass destruction is the order of the day. With explosives readily available, criminals can inflict great damage. There is also the threat of security from the Maoist and Jehadi’s and suicide bombers. This has to be viewed in a conflict environment. He further said that protection against external aggression influence the democratic policies of a country. He called for more Public private participation in critical areas of security. He also said that Private Security Agencies cannot be the police. This is because the private security agency does not enjoy the legal powers. More than self Defence we need specialization in the police forces and the Private security agencies. He further said that the security requirement varies for each sector like the bank, industry or educational institution. He hoped that the private security agency must be self supporting if not profit earning. It must provide for customer satisfaction. Special efforts for satisfaction of the customer should be the aim of the security industry.

Mr Suresh Kumar, Joint Secretary – Police Modernisation, Ministry of Home Affairs, expressed that the private security industry in India has reached a stage of maturity as we have regulation and some form of licensing under the PSAR Act 2005. He also said that we are at crossroads now and there is a need to take stock and review the situation as to whether any further changes in the legislation and enforcement mechanism are necessary. He was hopeful that the seminar will address critical issues like regulation, an effective regulatory body reviewing and evaluating and adopting a code of conduct for private security personnel. The other areas that needs to be addressed are :

• Establishing minimum standards of operations for private security professionals.
• Ensuring appropriate working conditions conducive to maximize the effectiveness of private security personnel.
• Establishing minimum standards for the recruitment and selection criteria for private security personnel.

The following presentations were made during the seminar.

• Expectations of Aviation Industry from security service providers.
• Customer expectations from security providers in Aviation and ports.
• Port security in India – Case study of Dhamra Port.
• Security of high profile events : User expectations from security providers.
• User expectation from security providers of IT/ BPO sector.
• Protecting and securing strategic & sensitive Installation from intelligence and physical point - user expectations.
• Securing of shopping malls : Expectations from PSA.
• Expectations from security agencies and public in in terrorist attack situations.
• Human behavior & its relevance in security industry.
• Security of Academic Institutions : User Expectations from Security Providers for campus security .
• Security of Mines: User expectations from security providers from Mining industry Security.
• Security of Banks ATMs, and Cash in Transit : Expectations from Line Managers of Banks and Security service providers.
• Peculiarities of Hospital Security : Expectations from the private security Providers.
• Security of Cement Factories - User expectations from private security providers.
• Executive Protection : Changing threats and ways to meet user expectations.
• Security of Residential Complexes ; User expectations from security providers.
• Graduating from Man Guarding to Total Loss Prevention; Customer expectations regarding Multi Skilling of private security providers.
• Crisis situations and stress management for security and Fire safety Workers.
• Peculiarities of Hotel security : Expectations from security service providers.

On the occasion four newly published books were released titled:

• Security Awareness & Importance of Training.
• Industrial Security Management.
• Security of Bank & Cash in Transit.
• Total Loss Prevention Management.

IISSM Annual Awards Committee in recognization of Excellence in various aspects of Security presented the Excellence Awards.

• Emerging Security Professional of the Year to Mr Vipin Goyal , 24 Secure, New Delhi.
• Disaster Management Professional of the year to Ms Monica Amarnath, Black Berrets, Mumbai.
• Security Professional of the year to Mr Rajiv Grover , American Express, Gurgaon.
• Private Investigator of the year to Mr I W Fernandes, Goa.
• Security Practitioner of the year to Capt N DeSouza, Goa.
• Consultant of the year Mr T Mogan, Singapore.

In addition to the above, IISSM conferred the Padmashri K N Prasad IISSM Veteran Award to Dr M Jeyaraj of Singapore and to Dr Norman Spain of USA.

Gracing the Valedictory Session as the Chief Guest Dr Aditya Arya, DIG Police, Goa said that the Police was performing the watch and ward duty of the State. He said the private security industry has come up very handy in reducing the work load of the Police. He also said that the third party is a welcome move on the way forward. The theme of the seminar is more appropriate and will come a long way for the Government of India and state governments on what has been deliberated and concluded. The Private Security Agency can now supplement the government security agency in an effective and useful way.

Mr Rajiv Mathur, President Designate, IISSM proposed the Vote of Thanks. The seminar concluded on a 3 hours cruise and gala dinner and fun at “The Coral Queen” hosted by the IISSM Goa chapter Chairman Mr G De Souza.

IISSM, New Delhi 17 October 2011

An Overview of IISSM-2010

“Yes, a Knowledge Seminar par excellence! I would like to attend such Seminars again & again”, exclaimed a senior participant in the recently-concluded XXth Annual International Seminar of the IISSM at Hotel Intercontinental Eros on December 9-11, 2010. Another veteran delegate added, “The sessions were indeed so interesting and varied that one could not afford to miss any of them”. Observing “Excellent & Informative”, Mr. Terry Scallan, Former Chairman, Board of Governors, South African Institute of Security wrote, “It was a pleasure to be at your conference which was world class and I speak of being at conferences in South Africa and in the UK. Congratulations. You truly deserve the connotation of the International Institute. I personally as the chairman of many conferences in South Africa have learnt a lot about timekeeping, coordination and the quality of speakers”. In his letter to Mr. Brian Nimick, Chief Executive, International Institute of Risk & Safety Management (IIRSM) in U.K., Mr. Raj Lakha from U.K. conveyed “As an update, it was by far the best one we have ever had; excellent attendance worldwide, venue and first class speakers from India and other parts of the world. Mr. Nath and our IISSM team have surpassed all expectations.”

Scheduled for celebrating the XXth anniversary of the institute, the current seminar became a totally professional & academic exercise only, shorn of planned festivities because of the sudden & sad demise of its Chairman, Mr. R. Swaminathan in the early hours of December 8, 2010. The inaugural session in the morning of December 9 was turned into paying respect to two of our Chairmen, late Mr. K.N. Prasad (Founder Chairman) and late Mr. R. Swaminathan. On the 20th anniversary, a special session was billed for paying tribute to our founder Chairman late Mr. K.N. Prasad, little knowing that we will also have to pay tribute to the incumbent Chairman Mr. R. Swaminathan in the same session. Lt. Gen. (Retd.) S.K. Sinha, former Governor of J& K and Assam, who came to share with us his reminiscences on late Mr. K.N. Prasad, inaugurated the event with a brief exposure on national security concerns.

The business session of the Seminar had started with a Panel discussion on the theme of the Seminar: “Private Security Industry as Business Enabler in the Next Decade”. Young minds including Capt. (Retd.) S B Tyagi, Deputy General Manager (Security), GAIL (India) Limited, Mr. Rajiv Mathur, Director, 24 Secure Group, Gurgaon, Capt. (Retd.) Percy Jokhi, Head Security and Vigilance, Firstsource Solutions Limited and Mr. Ravi Kapur, Managing Director, Absolute Security Services Pvt. Ltd., led the discussion in the Panel headed by the veteran industry leader Mr. Uday Singh, Chief Executive Officer, SIS (India) Limited, India. A special security briefing session to the delegates was organised through Dr. Ajai Sahni, Executive Director, Institute of Conflict Management, New Delhi, India. A management perspective to the private sector security scenario was brought in through Mr. R.S. Sharma, Chairman and Managing Director, Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited, New Delhi, India. It was a privilege for the delegates to hear from such dignitaries, specially when Mr. Bhaskar Chatterjee, Secretary, Department of Public Enterprises, Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises, Government of India, moderated the special session.

The first day of the Seminar ended with a highly significant interactive session with a high-powered German delegation comprising German companies dealing with security technology and led by the Parliamentary State Secretary, Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology, Germany. The session was primarily aimed as fostering closer relationship between smaller and medium level German entrepreneurs with their Indian counterparts. It was a matter of great privilege that Dr. T. Ramasami, Secretary, Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, chaired the session in which outer dignitaries like Mr. P.V. Kumar, Chairman, National Technical Research Organisation, Mr. Sabyasachi Chatterjee, Scientific Consultant to the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India and Mr. Arindam Bose, Chairman, Maitlamo a Tswelelopele (Pty) Ltd., New Delhi, also participated. It is hoped this interactive session will prove beneficial to entrepreneurs dealing with security technology.

The second day of the Seminar also started off with a Panel discussion on a very emotive subject: “PSAR Act, 2005 – Its Implementation and Progress in the Next Decade.” Senior industry leaders spoke in the panel, which generated enough heat to put the delegates thinking deeply over the various issues relating to the implementation of the PSAR Act, 2005. The participants had the benefit of Singaporean experience through a serving Superintendent of Police from Singapore and South African experience-courtesy Mr. Terry Scallan, Former Chairman, Board of Governors, South African Institute of Security.

In realisation of the need for private sector security getting into IT security, a number of specialised sessions highlighting how IT technology could be harnessed to the cause of private sector security were slated on all the three days of the Seminar. Some of the eminent speakers touching on various aspects of private sector security industry were like:

1. General (Retd.) Danny Yatom, CEO and Co-Chairman, Global Strategic Group Ltd., Israel, on: “The Growing Responsibilities of the Private Sector on State Defense”.
2. Mr. Tanmoy Chakrabarty, Vice President & Head - Global Government Industry Group, Tata Consultancy Services, New Delhi, on: “Leveraging Private Sector expertise for Homeland Security.”
3. Mr. George Y Chin OAM, Chairman, SIS MSS Security Holdings Pty Ltd, Australia, on: “Future of Manpower Security Industry”
4. Mr. Akhilesh Tuteja, Executive Director, KPMG, New Delhi, on: “Corporate World and Private Security Industry”
5. Mr. B.G. Gupta, Director, SCI Software India Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi, on: “Cyber Security in Next Decade – Role of Private Security Industry.”
6. Mr. George Brenan, General Manager, Office of Transport Security, Department of Infrastructure and Transport, Australia, on: “Government and Industry Working Together to Deliver Transport Security Outcomes”
7. Col. (Retd.) James L Fowler, Attorney at Law JD, MBA, CPP, formerly of Unilever United States, USA, on: “Increasing Responsibility of Private Sector in Protecting Assets”.
8. Mr. Arindam Bose, Chairman, Maitlamo a Tswelelopele (Pty) Ltd., New Delhi, India, on: “Governance of Human Resource competences in the Private Security Industry: Need for a National Accreditation body for the non formal sector.”

Some technology specific session were held through:

1. Dr. Alysia M. Sagi-Dolev, President & CEO, Qylur Security Systems, USA, on: “Technology: Sure Business Enabler in the Next Decade”.
2. Mr. Saugaato Ray, Director & CEO, Satmac Infosys Ltd., Mumbai, India, on: “Business District Security and Surveillance – an Enabler for Private Security, using Technical Intelligence.”

Coming to filial relationship between health, safety & security matters, Mr. Raj Lakha, Executive President (International Affairs), IISSM, UK, presented the paper from Mr. Brian Nimick, Chief Executive, IIRSM, who could not make to the event due to technical reasons. This was followed by “Fire Safety Management and Security: Need for Closer Interaction.” by Mr. Rajiv Mathur, Director – Corporate Affairs, Twenty Four Group, New Delhi.

Of special significance was a brilliant presentation by Ms. Aman Singh, Associate Editor and Director – Business Development, Security Today, Gurgaon, on “Emerging Role of Women in Private Security in the Next Decade.” Needless to say, the session generated high level of interest.

It was planned to end the business sessions of the Seminar by a very specialised presentation on: “Relation between private security and police, the role and method to ameliorate cooperation in future” by Ms. Albane Lahlou, a student of Ph.D. program of Graduate School of Dept. Crime Prevention & Corrections, Central Police University, Taiwan.

As in every year, the competition for Annual Professional Awards was quite stiff. The winners in 2010 were as follows.

A novel feature in IISSM-2010 was an invitation extended to Institutes of Management to send MBA students to savour first-hand what security-related Seminars are like.As it will be known, IISSM has been running a credit course (thirty hours) at Aravali Institute of Management, Jodhpur. Security-orientation of MBA students is believed to be in the larger interest of both the management & the security industry as a whole. The MBA students attending the Seminar on complimentary basis as observer delegates, greatly enjoyed the exposure and recorded, ‘Great experience meeting, networking and socialising with guests & professionals’.

To cap it all, the delegates had the privilege of listening to a very scintillating address by the former National Security Advisor and currently the Governor of West Bengal, Mr. M.K.Narayanan, at the valedictory session of December 11, 2010. The thoughts shared by Mr. M.K. Narayanan evoked considerable interest among all present. Although we have, with due permission, circulated his address among all the IISSM fraternity, it is worth including in this note some of his significant observations for the future of private sector security industry.

Commenting that, “If a window of opportunity is opening up for the private security industry in this country, this cannot happen unless the senior echelons of the security agencies suitably prepare themselves for this, beginning with a better comprehension of today’s securityproblems and the nature of our vulnerabilities in an age of globalisation.” He added, “I would also venture to suggest that as the Private Security Industry evolves into an important constituent of the security value chain, industry leaders must cultivate the science of strategic foresight and perception management.” He concluded, “I hasten to add that it should not be seen as a sour note. It is actually a wakeup call to an industry whose future is extremely bright, but can only hope to fulfill its potential if it provides free rein to bright young minds to transform it from the beliefs and practices of the early 20th century to a modernised version, suitable for the 21st Century.”

While IISSM will like to thank the learned faculties and panelists for joining us from far and wide and sharing their expertise with the participants, IISSM will also like to sincerely thank the moderators for their role in conducting the scheduled sessions smoothly.We in the IISSM will fail miserably if we do not bow our heads to the participants for their sustained interest in the proceedings. The continued presence of the vast majority of participants in almost all the sessions and till the end and the quality of floor participation witnessed during this year’s Seminar would indeed gladden the hearts of every organiser. To make the account self-contained, attached is a copy of the schedule followed in IISSM-2010.

The Story of IISSM-2009

“An amazing Conference! So well organised! What intellectual content! Really enjoyed,” so observed a veteran security professional. According to a first-timer, “I would like to come again and again to attend such a Seminar,” once again proving that IISSM Seminars have always a large quotient of repeaters. Joining the inaugural session in the absence of the Union Home Secretary, who could not make it at the eleventh hour, Mr. Deepti Vilash, Joint Secretary (Internal Security), Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, observed, “Terrorists of today having acquired high profile technology status, a paradigm shift was necessary in our attitude to tackle this menace. Security has to be a continuous affair and an ongoing activity and not an item in the budget only.” Lamenting that the Indian system lacked the culture of working with private agencies, Mr. K.V.S.S. Prasada Rao, Chairman, National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO), Government of India, in his valedictory address stressed, “All of us would have to now work together and there was no escape from this reality.” So had begun and ended the 4-day long XIXth Annual International Seminar of IISSM (December 8-11, 2009) at Hotel Le Meridien, New Delhi. Mr. K.P. Medhekar, IPS (Retd.), Chairman Emeritus of IISSM, had inaugurated the event. Mr. R. Swaminathan, IPS (Retd.), Chairman, IISSM, had welcomed the participants, and Mr. R.K. Sinha, Executive Chairman, IISSM, formally introduced IISSM and its activities. Mr. N.R. Das, (IPS), Director General, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Government of India, was the Guest of Honour on the occasion.

A distinctive feature of this year’s Seminar was high level international focus. A two-member delegation from the International Civil Defence Organisation (ICDO), Geneva, headed by its Deputy Secretary General, Dr. Evgeny Vasiliev, Dy. Secretary-General, International Civil Defence Organisation, Geneva, and a trade delegation led by Dr. Christian Ehler, Member of European Parliament, who was accompanied by Mr. Christoph Stroschein, Chief Executive, German European Security Association, interacted with the delegates in the post-lunch session of the second and third day of the Seminar respectively. The ICDO delegation expressed the faith and belief that there would be scope for future collaboration with India in the field of civil defence work.  Mr. R.K. Bhatia, IPS, Director General, National Disaster Response Force and Civil Defence, Government of India, had presided over this session. Dr. Christian Ehler and Mr. Christoph Stroschein indicated a broad outline for technological collaboration under the aegis of Europe India Chamber of Commerce. Apart from Indian security equipment manufacturers and scientists, a senior representative from the office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India had joined the deliberations. Dr. Ehler had also interacted with senior representatives from Tata Consultancy Services Limited, and HCL. Mr. Raj Lakha, Executive President (International Affairs), IISSM, based in UK, was the principal interlocutor on behalf of the IISSM with the Europe India Chamber of Commerce. Mrs. Hansa Kaul Dhar, Administrator – Membership, International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM), UK, has also joined and made a brief presentation.

The business session of the Seminar started with bang. It was a panel discussion on: “Role of Private Security Agencies in Counter Terrorism,” in which senior players in the field of private security, such as, Mr. R.K. Sinha, Chairman, Security Skills Council of India (SSC), Mr. C. Pal Singh, representing Asian Professional Security Association – India Chapter, and Mr. G.B. Singh, Chairman, ASIS International New Delhi India Chapter # 207, exchanged thoughts, backed by an examination of the legal aspects of the problem by an eminent lawyer of the Supreme Court of India, namely, Mr. Dipak Bhattacharyya. Mr. Kunwar Vikram Singh, Chairman, Central Association for Private Security Industry, could not make it at the last moment.

Technology and IT Security aspects dominated the proceedings with presentations like “Combating Cyber Terrorism – Role of Enterprises” by Mr. Pradeep Gupta, “Cyber Terrorism – Role of Private Sector” by Mr. B.G. Gupta, “e-Enablement of the Disaster Management in India – Public Private Partnership – the ideal way forward” by Mr. Arindam Bose, “eEnablement of the Internal Security of India – Public Private Partnership – the only way forward” by Mr. Tanmoy Chakrabarty, “Public Private Partnership Program – Metropolitan Video Surveillance” by Mr. Saugaato Ray. The Israeli perspective of the “Role of Private Sector in Counter Terrorism” was put forth by Mr. Leo Gleser, President International Security and Defence System. There was also exposition of the South African and Singaporean experience by learned speakers like Kris Pillay, Mr. Gavriel Schneider and Ms. Morrine Henson. Among other highly interesting presentations were: “Conventional and Unconventional methods of Counter Terrorism: Is the Private Sector Prepared?” by Captain Raghu Raman, “Leveraging business characteristics to facilitate public security” by Dr. Alysia M. Sagi-Dolev, “Innovation by Private Sector in Counter Terrorism – Methods and Materials” by Brig. (Retd.), S. Sreeramulu, “Refreshing ATM Protection for Today’s Threat” by Mr. S.J.S. Duggal. A rescue operation was the presentation by Mr. R.C. Sharma, Chief of Fire Services, New Delhi on the “Role of Fire Services in Counter Terrorism”, and a brilliant case study was presented by Col. R.S. Bhandari on “Corporate Collaborative Initiative in International Finance and Business Centre (G Block) of Bandra Kurla Complex Mumbai”. The old war horse Mr. S.J. Grogan delivered the last presentation on “The Impact of Voluntary Agencies in Countering the effects of Terrorist acts”.

Though identifying one particular speaker would not be correct, going by the feedback reports of the participants, Mr. Tanmoy Chakrabarty from Tata Consultancy Services Ltd., had easily stolen the show. An innovation attempted this year proved highly successful. Senior participants were invited to moderate sessions and they did so with remarkable aplomb. The esteemed moderators were: Mr. Abhijit Bhattacharyya, Capt. Percy Jokhi (Retd.), Maj. General S G Chatterji, VSM, Mr. Uday Singh, Mr. S.J. Grogan, Mr. B.C. Nayak, Mr. T. Mogan, Mr. Rathin Banerjee, Mr. Kumar Shailesh, Mr. B.G. Gupta, Mr. P. Kalastree, Mr. Rajiv Mathur, Mr. Gavriel Schneider, Mr. Kris Pillay, Capt. (Retd.) S.B. Tyagi and Mr. U.K. Katna.

The international faces in the Seminar were from Australia, Bhutan, Israel, Malaysia, UK, USA, South Africa and Singapore. Of the over 200 registered delegates, more than 75 were from private security agencies, about 60 from PSUs and private sector industries, 20 from banking and financial institutions, another 20 each from government agencies and manufacturing agencies and others. Officials, faculties and observer delegates made up for another 50 who graced this year’s event.

IISSM-2009 was a special occasion for new kind of activity. IISSM had the privilege of formally releasing two books published under the aegis of IISSM and written by two learned Indian security professionals, namely, Capt. (Retd.) S.B. Tyagi (Industrial Security – Management and Strategies) and Mr. P. Benjamin (Security Manual). Both the books were released at the inaugural session. The third book titled: “Bank and Industrial Security – A Normative Approach” published under the aegis of a senior official of IISSM, namely, Mr. S.S. Rajput and written by Mr. Subhendu S. Mukherjee, was also released on the occasion of the presentation relating to Bank Security. IISSM would like to keep on record its deep appreciation of the excellent work put in by all of them.

While thanking the learned faculties for joining us and sharing their expertise with the participants, IISSM will also like to sincerely thank the moderators for their role in conducting the scheduled sessions smoothly. We in the IISSM will fail miserably if we do not bow our heads to the participants for their sustained interest in the proceedings. The continued presence of a large number of participants in almost all the sessions and till the end and the quality of floor participation witnessed during this year’s Seminar would indeed gladden the hearts of every organiser. To make the account self-contained, attached is a copy of the schedule followed in IISSM-2009.

Then the “Award Ceremony” during the course of the Gala Dinner in the evening of December 10, 2009. Apart from gastronomical enjoyment, much sought after, one had to see the faces of the Award Winners shining when called to receive their trophies. Let such joy and smile return to many more in years after years.

IISSM-2009 – Awardees’ List

There were no awardees this year in the categories of Security Consultant of the Year, Security Practitioner of the Year, Security Systems Integrator of the Year and Security Guard of the Year.

IISSM Fellowship and other Awards conferred in IISSM-2009 were:

• Mr. Leo Gleser, President, International Security and Defence System, Israel.
• Col. R.S. Bhandari (Retd.), General Manager, Security and Exchange Board of India.
• Mr. D.E. Byramjee, Vice President & Business Heads, Security Solutions Division, Godrej and Boyce Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Mumbai. (represented by Mr. Manu Saigal, Delhi).
• Dr. Alysia M. Sagi-Dolev – President & CEO, Qylur Security Systems, USA.
• Mr. R.C. Sharma, Chief of Fire Services, New Delhi.
• Mr. S.J.S. Duggal, President SIS Cash Services, New Delhi.
• Mr. Pradeep Gupta, Chairman, Cyber Media Group, New Delhi.
• Mr. Gavriel Schneider, Director, Dynamic alternatives (Pty) Ltd., South Africa.
• Ms. Morrine Henson, BSc. CSM, CSP, Director, ALWATCH Security Management Pte Ltd, Singapore.
• Mr. Tanmoy Chakrabarty, Vice President & Head, Tata Consultancy Services, Noida.
• Mr. Saugaato Ray, Director and CEO, Satmac Infosys Ltd., Mumbai.

Special Felicitation Award

• Brig. S. Sreeramulu, Executive Director (South Central), SIS India Limited, Hyderabad.
• Capt. Raghu Raman, Chief Executive Officer, NATGRID.
• Mr. Kris Pillay, Director, School of Criminal Justice, South  Africa.
• Mr. B.G. Gupta, Director, SCI Software India Private Limited, New Delhi.
• Mr. Raj Lakha, Chief Executive, Safety Solutions (UK) Limited, UK.
• Mr. Arindam Bose, Advisor and Head – Homeland Security, Tata Consultancy Services, Noida.
• Mr. S.J. Grogan, President, SJG Enterprises, USA

Special Mementos:

• Mr. G.K. Pillai, Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.
• Mr. K.V.S.S. Prasada Rao, Chairman, National Technical Research Organisation, Government of India.
• Mr. N.R. Das, Director General, Central Industrial Security Force, Government of India.
• Dr. Evgeny Vasiliev, Dy. Secretary-General, International Civil Defence Organisation, Geneva.
• Mrs. Svetlana Bandurkina, Department of International Cooperation, EMERCOM, Russia.
• Dr. Christian Ehler, MEP, European Parliament, Brussels.
• Mr. Christoph Stroschein, Chief Executive, German European Security Association.
• International Civil Defence Organisation, Geneva.
• International Institute of Risk and Safety Management, United Kingdom.
• South African Institute of Security, South Africa.
• Security Association of Singapore, Singapore.
• German European Security Association.
• Security Office, Prime Minister’s Department, Malaysia.
• Singapore Police Force

IISSM-2008: A Goanese Cuisine

‘A great Seminar!’ ‘An unforgettable experience!’ – are some of the expressions culled from the feedback reports received at the Open Feedback session before the valedictory function on November 14, 2008, of the XVIII Annual International Seminar of the IISSM at Hotel Cidade de Goa on Vainguinim Beach of Goa. With over 200 participants, IISSM-2008 scaled an unprecedented height in more than one way. It was for the first time that a State Chamber of Commerce and a State Security Association were partners with the IISSM in organising such an event at international level relating to industrial security! Additionally, there was the flavour of Goanese cuisine in almost every aspect, ending up with a unique Certificate of Participation in wood-carving and an equally beautiful memento to all who had joined this event. And, how did you carry your Conference material - in a specially manufactured jute-bag! These ‘small’ things led a senior participant to exclaim: “It was a wonderful experience for a first-time participant like me. Quality and volume of inputs were excellent. I am feeling enriched and would love to participate in future Seminars. Grateful to the organisers who worked relentlessly and did a wonderful job!” Let this, however, be also known that, as before, there was also a large group (55) of ‘repeaters’ this year too once again proving the adage that IISSM Seminars were virtual reunions of professionals that becomes addictive!

Rhetoric’s apart! “I agree with you that convergence, which is the basic focus of the Seminar, is the quintessential need of the hour,” so said His Excellency the Governor of Goa Dr. S.S. Sidhu in his scintillating and erudite address while inaugurating the Seminar in the morning of November 12, 2008. He set the tone for the deliberations for the next three days, when he observed, “There is, no doubt, that intensive theoretical knowledge and rigorous practical training are necessary for our security personnel to prevent lapses and human errors so as to thwart the evil designs of anti-social elements.” He was also “of the view that in our rapidly changing contemporary security scenario, the security and loss prevention industry should become both techno-savvy and infotech-savvy, with strong focus on multi-dimensional approach so that it can keep pace with the future needs, with efficiency and élan.” A typically pragmatic guideline from him was: “I would like to underline that, howsoever efficient and updated the technology and systems may be, unless the man behind them are vigilant, well-trained, motivated and dedicated to their duties, the quality of performance will not be of requisite standard, and thus the need for special focus on human resource development and manpower training.” While deeply acknowledging his advice, IISSM remains beholden to His Excellency for his clear assessment, “I am particularly glad to learn that the Institute of Security and Safety Management, with humble beginnings in 1991, has today emerged as a vibrant think-tank for critical assessment, analysis and evaluation of the entire gamut of industrial safety and security issues, in consonance with the contemporary security scenario in the country and the globe.”

It was also a matter of great privilege that IISSM had the benefit of having Mr. Francisco Cosme Sardinha, former Chief Minister of Goa and now a sitting Member of Parliament, as the Chief Guest at the Valedictory session on November 14, 2008. All in the IISSM are deeply grateful to Mr. Sardinha for responding to our request at the shortest possible notice. In the background of “new and unseen dimension due to deteriorating internal and external security scenario,” he averred, “it is imperative to have seminars like this where ideas can be exchanged and we can come out with innovative ideas to equip our agencies and institutions dealing with security with latest trends and also equipment to fight the evil designs of anti-social elements who want to destroy the peace, tranquility and happiness of our society.” Referring to the need for early implementation of the provisions of the Central Rules under the Private Security Agencies (Regulations) Act, 2005, recently adopted by the Government of Goa, he observed, “The government may also direct the private security agencies to submit their applications through the Security Association of Goa to ascertain that they are genuine. On the other hand, the Association should ensure that the security personnel are properly trained and equipped and are more professional in their approach, and for that the Association should have a Central Training Institute, if possible.”

While the Security Association of Goa, we are sure, will like to follow up the guidelines above, the delegates did indulge in free exchange of thoughts during the course of interaction both with the expert faculties and the fellow professionals coming from all over. Despite severe time-constrain in the Seminar of this type, many responded to the question (No.3 in the feedback report) “What did you like in the Seminar?” “Frank discussions. The open and free exchange of ideas across diverse topics,” repeating that they “would like to come for IISSM-2009.”

The business sessions of the Seminar were preceded by briefing by the acting Inspector General of Police from the Goa Police on the prevailing security scenario, with special reference to Goa. Then followed a presentation on “Management Perspective on the Need for Changes in Security Industry” from the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry. An interesting Panel discussion was on “Fraud Prevention in Banking Industry: Scope for Convergence” in which two bankers from the Reserve Bank of India and the State Bank of Indian initiated the discussion. Individual presentations that had really carried the audience included:

1. Changing Face of the Indian State of Security and its Future Impact on Businesses - Speaker: Capt. (Retd.) Raghu Raman, CEO, Mahindra Special Services Group, Mumbai, India.
2. A Fundamentalist Approach – Convergence of Security and Loss Prevention - Speaker: Capt. (Retd.) Percy H. Jokhi, Head Security and Vigilance, Firstsource Solutions Limited, Mumbai, India.
3. Six Sigma in Security Services - Speaker: Mr. Ravi Kapur, Director, ACE Detectives, New Delhi, India.
4. Cyber Security: Checking the Losses from Cyber Crimes - Speaker: Mr. Subimal Bhattacharjee, Country Head, India, General Dynamics International Corporation, New Delhi, India.
5. Need for Technological Convergence - Speaker: Mr. G.B. Singh¸ Editor, Security Today Magazine, Gurgaon, India.
6. Security Convergence – Physical and Information - Presented by: Mr. Arindam Bose, Chairman, Maitlamo A Tswelelopele (Pty) Ltd, Botswana & Research Advisor, Cyber Media, India.
7. Designing CCTV System for Security and Loss Prevention - Speaker: Mr. Jayant Kapatker, CEO, STAM Multimedia Inc., USA.
8. Systems Assessment and Integration for Rational Security Programs - Speaker: Col. (Ret.) Kay Kimura, Consultant and Lecturer, Homeland Security, USA.

And, of course, there was the inimitable management guru Prof. Sharu Rangnekar talking on: “Convergence: A Forthcoming Necessity”. The participants had also the benefit of Singapore Experience where Mr. T. Mogan, President, Security Association of Singapore, spoke on: “Manpower and Systems: The Singapore Experience.”

A distinctive feature of IISSM-2008 that should gladden the hearts of all organisers was the fact the average presence in all sessions of the Seminar covering diverse subjects was very high all through. Kudos to both the learned speakers and the learning group of participants!

Apart from having seasoned professionals, the Seminar this year had the benefit of a team of learned academicians from IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University) joining as moderators.

While thanking the learned faculties for their joining us and sharing their expertise with the participants, IISSM will also like to sincerely thank the moderators for their role in conducting the scheduled sessions smoothly. We in the IISSM will fail miserably if we do not bow our heads to the participants for their sustained interest in the proceedings. To make the account self-contained, attached is a copy of the schedule followed in IISSM-2008.

Statistically speaking, there were over 100 plus delegates from field of private security agencies, 26 from the banking and other financial institutions, 23 from the private sector industries and 16 from the public sector. Nine delegates were from the government offices. The States and Union Territories represented were: Assam, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Bihar, Orissa, UP, Haryana, New Delhi, Kerala, Goa, Karnataka, Punjab, Tamilnadu, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Maharashtra. The NCR region had 31, the city of the Mumbai had sent 36 delegates and 24 were from Goa. The overseas representatives had come from US, South Africa, Malaysia, Singapore and Kuwait.

A great failure was IISSM’s inability to provide for sightseeing for the participants who had come from far and wide areas ‘also’ for ‘Goa Darshan’, as some one has put it. Our sincere apology on that count. Nevertheless, some delegates did take advantage of sightseeing trips of spouses – an act of great bravery indeed! Although not by way offering any excuse, this lapse was possibly to an extent neutralised by the fabulous evening show of November 13, 2008. The ‘Gala Dinner’ this year organised practically on the sea beach was rated the best ever by many. The typical Goanese dance and cuisine were aptly followed by the special African show of unbelievable acrobatics. It was no wonder, therefore, that many were not pleased that the ‘happy hours’ ended before midnight.

Then, the ‘Award Ceremony’ the same evening. One had to see the joy in the face of the Award Winners when called to receive their trophies. Let such joy and smile return to many more in years after years. An additional Award instituted this year was the “Best Delegate of the Year (Nath Challenge Cup),” an award, not based on records but on actual field performance during the days of the Seminar. There were apparent efforts during the course of the Seminar to attract attention on this score! That was what IISSM looked forward to. But the selectors’ choice was unanimous. The Best delegate of the year was: “Capt. (Retd.) A.G. Bagaitkar, Sr. Manager (Security), Bank of India, Pune.” The full list of Awardees is as below:

It will be only in the fitness of things that IISSM pays its respects to the senior professionals in the Awards Committee for their cooperation.



Besides the Annual Awards, IISSM had thought it fit and appropriate to acknowledge the extraordinary services and contribution of the dedicated lot of professionals in Goa by conferring Special Awards on them. They are:

• Mr. Nicholas D’Souza
• Mr. Rommel D’Souza
• Mr. Gurcharan Singh Chauhan
• Mr. Antonio Fernandes
• Mr. Ronald Pinto
• Mr. Stanley N.J.
• Mr. G.S. De Souza

Then, there were Awards of Recognition for:

• Mr. N.S. Dessai
• Mr. W.I. Fernandes
• Mr. James T. Edatt

Keeping up its tradition to honour veterans in security industry, IISSM honoured itself by conferring Special Felicitation Awards on the following:

• Capt. (Retd.) P.R. Menon, President, Association of Investigators and Security Organisations in India, Mumbai.
• Mr. B.G. Deopujari, Chairman, Secure India, Nagpur.
• Mr. S.J. Grogan, President, SJG Enterprises, USA.

No account of IISSM-2008 will be complete without IISSM formally expressing its gratitude to the friends in the Security Association of Goa / Goa Chapter of IISSM as also in the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Spontaneous gesture of the SAG / Goa Chapter to hold the Seminar in Goa and their unstinted support and enthusiasm till the end were the primary reason for the success of what we would like to describe as the “Goa Story”. The dynamic President of GCCI, Mr. Nitin Kunkolienker really acted as the friend, philosopher and guide in many respects. Air Cmdr. (Retd.) P.K. Pinto was by his side all through.

Let it be added in the footnote. The Board of Governors thought of IISSM-2009 taking place in December 2009 in the week commencing December 7. Should you wish, you may like to block your calendar accordingly. The venue will be duly announced. Are you looking forward to going back to Delhi?

IISSM-2008: Feedback Messages

The seminar was very well organised, well conducted ,very well managed. Earlier the field of security was considered to be subsidiary department or allied one but the efforts taken by IISSM will change the look of the corporates & Govt. bodies towards Security. - Capt D K Patil, Reserve Bank of India, Ahmedabad.

It was indeed a pleasure to have been with you all in GOA attending the IISSM function. I attended it first time. It was a good show. Congratulations! - Major (Retd) Parwez Husain, Manager (Security & Administration), Indogulf Fertilisers , Sultanpur, UP

I would wish to convey to you my deep felt appreciation at the excellent conduct of the recently concluded seminar in Goa. The response from the audience and participants alike was overwhelming. I was heart and soul enthused and thoroughly enjoyed every moment. – Ms. Monica Amarnath, Managing Director, Black Berrets's Twin City Enterprises, Mumbai

It was a grand success of the seminar at Goa from 12/11/08 to 14/11/08. throughout the days of the seminar and experts deliberations which have helped us keep ourselves with day to day advance in technology on security and safety. - S.M.Wadekar, Managing Director, Securafence Security Pvt. Ltd. Pune.

Thank you very much for having organized and imparted a professional Seminar on ‘Security and Loss Prevention Industry: Convergence- a necessity’ at Goa. The theme of the conference was aptly chosen with a good range of good speakers/ presenters and excellent/ energetic compeering by Mr. Nath. The overall time management was flawless throughout the seminar. - Rathin Kumar Banerjee, President-New Ventures, Zicom Electronic Security Systems Ltd., Mumbai.

Thank you for inviting me to speak at the IISSM event in Goa last week. It was wonderful being with you all. The audience was a quality one and all your arrangements were fantastic. - Subimal Bhattacharjee, Country Head, General Dynamics International Corporation, New Delhi.

Attended for the first time. It is a strong forum for strengthening Private Security Sector which will have an impact – V.N. Deshkukh, Former DGP, Mumbai.

I have been attending IISSM seminars for eight years and I am pleased to see the number of delegates growing by the year. This is encouraging for IISSM as it aspires to professionalise the security industry in India. - Professor Kris Pillay – Director, School of Criminal Justice, College of Law, UNISA, South Africa.

I wish to thank all those who worked on this Seminar. Their fine efforts deserve praise. - Col. (Retd.) James L Fowler, Attorney at Law JD, MBA. CPP, formerly of Unilever United States, USA.

It was a wonderful experience for a first time participant like me. Quality and volume of inputs were excellent. I am feeling enriched and would like to participate in future seminars. Grateful to the organisers who worked relentlessly and did a wonderful job. - Commodore Jageshwar Chaudhary, VSM (Retd.)General Manager, SDB CISCO (India) Ltd, Mumbai.

What We Did At IISSM, 2002

"Terrorism of today has no relevance to terrorism of 60s and 70s", thus said Mr. P.S. Ramamohan Rao, Governor of Tamilnadu, in his inaugural address to the XIIth annual International Seminar of the International Institute of Security and Safety Management (IISSM) at Hotel Taj Coromandel, Chennai, on December 17, 2002. Underlining that we were often overtaken by the hydra-headed phenomenon of terrorism, he specified three specific points of action as regards the terrorist threat to the industrial front. First, he observed that a regular and legal framework for the functioning of private security agencies could not any longer be delayed. He recommended that the IISSM should provide a suitable framework for training of security agencies in the private sector so as to periodically upgrade their skill, knowledge and preparedness. He then laid stress on the need for intelligence network for tackling the terrorist phenomenon. He also recommended a uniform approach to combat terrorism at the international level.

Continuing in the same vein, more or less, Mr. M.K. Narayanan, former Director, Intelligence Bureau (Ministry of Home Affairs), Government of India, stressed in his valedictory address on December 19, 2002, that the 9/11 incident had indeed brought in significant change in the security scenario and techniques to combat terrorism. He lamented that private security agencies did not, however, fulfill their due role and promises in this respect. He urged that they should break out from the cocoon of complacency and indulge in strategic thinking and technological innovations. The terrorist of today would certainly aim at newer targets, particularly the economic field and there in lay the importance of the role of private security agencies.

Earlier, in his welcome address, Mr. K.N. Prasad, Chairman, IISSM, contended that the IISSM had indeed realized that the private security industry would have to play a significant role in strengthening the global effort to deal with terrorism, and hence the broad theme of the current year's Seminar as "Terrorism: Its Threats to Industrial Security and Effective Preventive Measures Needed." He further observed, "The private security industry has now travelled a long way. It has developed in many countries as a supplementary wing of the state security forces. We now operate in areas which are vulnerable and sensitive. It, therefore, becomes our obligation to articulate the threat from terrorism, to raise the level of our sensitivity and awareness and to keep updating our operational and technological inputs and the needed response strategies of which the best technical strategy is pre-emption."

A significant aspect of IISSM, 2002, was a series of specialized panel discussion on aspects like Corporate Security, Software Security, Bank Security, Aviation Security and Hotel Security, in which panelists came from their respective fields of specialization, thus lending both qualitative and practical touch to the deliberations in the Seminar.

It was quite significant that the first business session of the Seminar was on corporate security, which was chaired by Mr. B.B. Mishra, DG, Central Industrial Security Force, Govt. of India. The panel on Bank Security included Chiefs of Security from the State Bank of India, United Bank of India, Punjab National Bank, Syndicate Bank besides the Security Advisor of the Reserve Bank of India who was the lead speaker in this panel. There were interesting presentations on the 9/11 development - retrospective and lessons learnt. The Disaster Management Response and Strategy for Emergency Response had also evoked considerable interest. A very interesting presentation on Isomorphic Learning to counter Commercial Terrorism And Human-made Disaster had evoked great response from the participants. Last but least, the exposition on biometrics solutions to terrorist threats had indeed aroused considerable interest among the delegates to this fast-developing technological aid to security.

As in the past, the participants in the Seminar had come from different countries like the USA, UK, South Africa, Nepal, Singapore, and Mauritius, besides of course India. They represented public sector undertakings, private industries, government organizations, private security agencies, financial and banking industries and academic institutions.

Thanks to the tight-time schedule which could not be helped, the delegates did not have the opportunity to indulge in sight-seeing of the beautiful city of Chennai, but the usual sight-seeing programme for spouses attracted those who could otherwise join their counterparts for the Seminar.

The open feedback session at the end of the business sessions offered opportunities to those who could not join the floor participation to their hearts' content because of the time constraint in various sessions. The subsequent feedback reports received, besides reflecting appreciation of the participants of the proceedings of the Seminar, have indeed thrown up interesting suggestions for implementation in the future.

The closing session of the Seminar on December 19, 2002, generated particular interest because of the Awards-giving ceremony. As in the past, Annual Awards included Awards for: "Security Agency of the Year 2002", "Security Practitioner of the Year 2002", "Private Investigator of the Year 2002", "Security Operations Manager of the Year 2002", "Security Guard of the Year 2002", and "Safety Man of the Year 2002".

For the information of all friends and friends of friends, the Board of Governors of the IISSM, who had met on December 19, 2002, have decided that the XIIIth Seminar of the IISSM will be held in New Delhi in December 2003. The exact dates and the venue of the Seminar will be announced later.

As in previous years, one of the highlights of IISSM-2002, was the usual competition for IISSM's Annual Professional Awards. The Awards handed over during IISSM-2002 were:

• Security Agency of the Year 2002
  Premier Security Co-operative Society Ltd., Singapore
  Ex-Servicemen Multipurpose Services (India) Private Limited, Nagpur, India
• Security Practitioner of the Year 2002
  Mr. Kris Pillay, Executive Director, Technikon SA- Security Management
  Capt. S.B. Tyagi, Senior Manager (Security), GAIL (India) Limited, India
• Private Investigator of the Year 2002
  Mr. J.K. Karan, Manager (Investigation), SIS (I) Ltd, India
• Security Operations Manager of the Year 2002
  Mr. C.B. Prasad, RVP, SIS (I) Ltd., India
  Mr. L. K. Asthana, Manager (Vigilance), Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd.,
  India
• Security Guard of the Year 2002
  Mr. Basant Nayak, Security Guard, SIS (I) Ltd., India
• Safety Man of the Year 2002
  Mr. Raj Lakha, Chief Executive, Safety Solutions (UK) Limited, UK

IISSM 2007: Yet Another Landmark

What a convergence! Inaugurating the XVIIth Annual International Seminar of the IISSM on December 12, 2007, the Union Home Secretary Mr. Madhukar Gupta foresaw newer challenges for private security industry and wondered “how we (the government) can join hands,” and Mr. E.S.L. Narasimhan, the Governor of Chhattisgarh, in his valedictory address on December 14, 2007, talked about “pivotal role” of private security agencies in joining hands with the government in the matter of tackling terrorist situations arising in the country. The theme of this Year’s Seminar was “Security Industry on the Threshold of Changes”. The discussions in which nearly 200 professionals participated, focused on specific areas of security.

The inaugural session on 12th December set the tone and pace for the rest of the Seminar. Mrs. Sheela Bhide (Chairperson of India Trade Promotion Organization) spoke about the close relationship between security and trade. She referred to the emerging collaboration between IISSM and ITPO in organizing international exhibitions (and related seminars) on Security, Safety, Fire and Disaster Management Equipment and Services. Prof. V. Rajasekharan Pillai (Vice Chancellor, Indira Gandhi National Open University) spoke about the need and possibility of linking training for the security profession with the distant education expertise and facilities of IGNOU. Mr. P. C. Haldar (Director, Intelligence Bureau) spoke briefly about the new trends in security threats. Mr. Madhukar Gupta (Home Secretary, Govt. of India) delved on several significant points that should concern security professionals. He inter-alia referred to the continuing threat of terrorist activities and the need for cooperation between government security organizations and private security agencies. He called upon organizations like IISSM to provide significant professional inputs to the regulatory authorities under the PSAR Act and similar laws. Mr. Gupta highlighted the need to develop the capability to absorb and effectively utilize technological developments. He said that a new paradigm was required to deal with security issues and to get maximum value for the money spent. Mr. Narasimhan suggested that the private security agencies could attempt a time / location / methodology model exercise that would help the government to formulate a suitable counter strategy for tackling terrorist violence.

IISSM enlarged the share of panel discussions in this year’s Seminar. There were three major panel discussions during IISSM 2007. The first one related to:PSAR Act – Training of Security Personnel: The Real Challenge. It was obviously dominated by concerns about training and licensing procedures mandated by the Act. The requirements of basic training and follow-up in service training were discussed in detail. On the issue of licensing, the major problems discussed were:

• The requirement to obtain multiple state level licenses, by private security agencies operating in many States. There was a need to consider multi-state or all-India licenses.
• The pre-verification of the antecedents of guards and the related documentation needed reconsideration.
• The absence of any provision for arms license for the private security agencies, and the old Arms Act requirement of only individuals being licensed to hold arms, led to the deployment of unsuitable persons merely because they possessed licensed weapons.
• The continued existence of the provisions of old state – level legislations [like the Maharashtra Private Security Guards (Regulation of Employment and Welfare) Act] even after the passing of the Central PSAR Act.

The second panel discussion was on the problems faced in: Bank Security: Challenges of Outsourcing items like guards, ATM servicing, cash-in-transit etc. Possible and actual threats and lapses were referred to. One of the highlighted points was the tendency to minimize expenditures, resulting often in poor quality of personnel. The risks involved in inadequate protection of cash vaults and vans were also brought out.

The third panel addressed the topical issue of: Infrastructure Growth and the Challenges in Fire Safety, covering the rapid growth of infrastructure including clusters of multi-storied buildings. The need for taking into account the security & safety requirements from the design stage was highlighted.

Individual presentations (with audience interactions) were made by specialists in different fields. A brief listing would include:-

1. Global Training Standards in Security Industry - Prof. Kris Pillay from South Africa.
2. Stress Management for Security Professionals - Dr. H. R. Nagendra from Bangalore.
3. Challenges for Taking Indian Security Business Abroad - Mr. Raj Lakha from U.K.
4. Management of Change: The Prime Task for Security Industry - Prof. Sharu Rangnekar from Mumbai.
5. Challenges for Aviation Security in the Changing Security Scenario - An overview by Mr. Kerran Campbell from Australia.
6. Systems Integration: Loss Prevention Initiative - Col. Kay Kimura from USA.
7. Retail Security: The Next Big Challenge - An overview by Col. T. Saikia, Gurgaon.
8. 21st Century Leadership with Effective Teams - Mr. S. J. Grogan from USA.
9. Challenges Facing Security Managers in Major International Companies - Col. (Rtd.) James L. Fowler from USA.
10. Security Industry on the Threshold of Changes - An overview by Mr. Paramjeet Singh Sahi.

While all the sessions were highly interactive, the presentations by Mr. Raj Lakha, Prof. Rangnekar and Dr. H. R. Nagendra stood out for their emotional appeal to the delegates. The presence of Dr. N.K. Sengupta, former Revenue Secretary, Govt. of India and currently Chairman, Board for Reconstruction of Public Enterprises (BRPSE), moderating the presentation of Prof. Rangnekar, had added lusture to the occasion.

Statistically speaking, there were over ninety (90) delegates from the field of private security agencies, about 40 from the banking and other financial institutions, twenty each from the public sector and private sector industries. The States and Union Territories represented were: Assam, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Bihar, Orissa, UP, Haryana, New Delhi, Kerala, Goa, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Punjab, Tamilnadu, Andhra Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Maharashtra. The NCR region had about 40 and the city of the Mumbai had sent 35 delegates. The overseas representatives had come from Belgium, US, UK, South Africa, Australia, Singapore and Kuwait.

The delegates were in their element in the feed-back session. There was a strident demand that the IISSM enlarged its role and take adequate steps towards projecting the true professional image of the security industry. An interesting suggestion was to add one more annual professional award – that for the Best Security Training Institute.

Twelve Annual Awards for professional excellence were announced in a glittering Award Ceremony held along with the Gala Dinner in the evening of December 13. The Awardees were:

Let it be known also that the next Seminar – IISSM-2008 – will be held at the carnival city of Goa. No sooner this was announced at the Gala Dinner, then many started marking their engagement diaries accordingly. The probable dates will be in the first half of November, 2008. So, be on your mark!

IISSM Marches Ahead
(A Report on IISSM-2006)

“I feel proud that some 16 years down the line the International Institute of Security and Safety Management is now recongised for its contribution in the field of private security management,” thus observed Mr. Subodh Kant Sahay, the Minister of State for Food Processing Industry, Govt. of India, in his inaugural address to the XVIth Annual International Seminar on November 21, 2006, held at Hotel Le Meredien, New Delhi. Further adding, “I will take up any recommendation made by you and take your delegation to any level,” the Minister wished a bigger role for the IISSM in the security industry.

The 3-day long (November 21-23, 2006) Seminar of the IISSM witnessed a kind of professional camaraderie not often seen among delegates and experts coming from different corners of the world. Industry leaders from all over the country graced the occasion and at times actively participated in the deliberations, making the event professionally highly beneficial. Senior retired bureaucrats had also made their distinguished presence felt. The Director General of Police, Karnataka, actually presided over a panel discussion, and also present were about 15 government officers of the rank of IGs and DIGs or of equivalent rank from different departments of the government, including a special cell from the Prime Minister’s Office. High level representatives from the corporate sector, both public and private, indeed made the proceedings not only interactive but educative as well. The private security agencies had sent in about one hundred delegates.

Keeping in tune with the topical theme of the Seminar ”Synergy between Pubic and Private Sector Security”, the Seminar began with a panel discussion on “Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act 2005: Impact on Man Guarding Industry and Role of Government as the Regulator”, and ended with a presentation on “Corporate Security and Contribution to National Infrastructure” by Commodore (Retd.) P.K. Viswanathan, the Principal Consultant, Asia Pacific, Honeywell Building Solutions, India. In between, there was a lively panel discussion on “Cash Management Services: The New Paradigm” presided over by an eminent retired banker, Mr. Vepa Kamesam, a former Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, and currently MD of the Institute of Insurance and Risk Management, Hyderabad. In all, there were 11 individual presentations touching on aspects like “Role of Private Security Agencies in Disaster Management”, presented by Mr. Raj Lakha, CEO, Safety Solution (UK) Ltd., UK, “Case Study of Synergy between Public and Private Sector Systems on ‘Green Bay Dispute’” presented by Mr. Wang Chun-hsiung, Central Police University, Taiwan, Province of China “Security for Urban Transportation” presented by Mr. Kerran Campbell, Global Technical Director, Security, Sinclair Knight Merz, Australia, “Synergy between Public and Private Sector Security Systems” by Mr. Vepa Kamesam, “HR Synergy for Security Systems” by Prof. Sharu S. Rangnekar, “Enhancing the Synergy Between Man Machine Interface in the Security Environment” by Prof. Kris Pillay, Head of the Department of Security and Risk Management, University of South Africa.

Among the moderators of different sessions were: Mr. S.K. Sharma, IPS (Retd.), former Director General, National Crime Records Bureau, Prof. A.K. Sharma, School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, Dr. Jauhari Lal, former Director General (HR), ONGC, and currently Secretary General and CEO, Petrotech, New Delhi, Mr. R.K. Agnihotri, former Director General of Police, Madhya Pradesh and Mr. R.C. Sharma, IPS (Retd.) former Director, Central Bureau of Investigation, Government of India.

In response to participants’ interest on the implication of Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act 2005, a special session was organnised for further in-depth discussion on the subject now engaging attention of all in view of the fact that this Act will have to take effect by March 2007.

A new feature introduced in this year’s Seminar was short-duration product presentations on security-related items which had evoked a very high level of interest from the participants.

IISSM’s annual Awards had always evoked keen competition every year and there was no difference this year. In addition to the six annual Awards, a new Award donated by a senior faculty (Capt. (Retd.) S.B. Tyagi) for “Best Security Professional of the Year” was also introduced this year. Also introduced were Awards for “Best Emerging Security Professional for the Year” instituted by the IISSM in the name of Col. Paul, “Best Security Systems Integrator of the Year” instituted in the name of late Sameer Wasu, and the “Best Consultant of the Year” donated by the Premier Shield Group. A special “Banking Security Bravery Award” was also announced by a senior faculty (Mr. S.S. Rajput) to commence from 2007. IISSM Awards took a totally new colour this year with Awards for Professional Excellence to a large number of established security professionals representing different private security agencies from all over the country. Needless to say, the account of Awards in IISSM 2006 could be a story by itself.

The Gala Dinner in the evening of November 22 offered tremendous scope for socialization and networking among security professionals coming from different parts of the world such as Australia, Bangadesh, Nepal, South Africa, UK, USA, Belgium, Kuwait and Taiwan, Province of China and of course from different States of India.

Professionally speaking, the most satisfying aspect of IISSM-2006 was the level of sustained interest displayed by the delegates in the proceedings all through and till the end. IISSM salutes them sincerely. A response from a senior delegate will explain how the participants liked the proceedings: “It was a wonderful experience, meeting all of you and to experience how well the IISSM-2006 Convention was organised. It was not an easy task but the Super Natural Powers were on the side of the Organisers and it was very professionally managed under the given circumstances.

‘Until the ending, it was as good as the beginning, if not better’.

Quite fittingly, the Honourable Union Home Minister of India, Mr. Shivraj V. Patil, was the Chief Guest at the valedictory session of the Seminar. Unavoidable circumstances prevented him from inaugurating the Seminar and so the Honourable Minister made special efforts to address the delegates in the valedictory session. In his inimitable and forthright manner, the Union Home Minister clarified that the Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act, 2005, was not meant only to regulate the industry, but also to improve professionalism in the industry. The law is meant to encourage the private security agencies but the only point was that they should be reliable. Appreciating the role being played by private security agencies, the Home Minister concluded that private security agencies could indeed become very beneficial if there was synergy between them and the police. The IISSM could not have felt more satisfied at this point of time with the selection of the theme of the Seminar this year. In a particular reference to IISSM’s contribution in the field of private security industry, hinting at the presence of senior retired police officers in the hierarchy of the IISSM, the Union Home Minister observed, “While we could rely on you while in service, why we could not do so even today. We shall certainly consider the recommendations made by you.”

On the occasion of the Seminar, Mr. S.K. Sharma, Chairman of the IISSM’s standing committee on Professional Certification (CPC) announced the series of Professional Certification Programmes proposed to be launched during the year 2007.

Taking up the queue from last year when the management of IISSM was made open, three new members of the Board of Governors were elected during the course of IISSM-2006. The BOG also decided to hold the next Seminar, i.e., the XVIIth Annual International Seminar, in Mumbai. So, look to Mumbai from henceforth.

IISSM 2005 - A Report

"Learned talks, listed out with crystal clear points, duly substantiated with apt examples, were nothing but marvellous exposure for those who wanted to imbibe for enriching themselves and benefiting the customers thereby so that the ultimate aim of Total Loss Prevention could be achieved," was the observation by Capt. (Retd.) N.C. Joseph, a senior participant in IISSM-2005 from Hyderabad. "Considerable improvement over past years is noted not only in attendance but also in the quality of presentations" added Mr. S.J. Grogan, from the USA. "What did you like in the Seminar" was answered by Capt. (Retd.) N. Haridas, Kochi Refineries Ltd., India: “IISSM-2005 was a platform for knowledge sharing and updating; qualitative standards; building of fraternity for security professionals,” “Roping in of the best possible guest speakers who were the experts in the field,” was the opinion of yet another delegate. Disciplined conduct of the Seminar was also appreciated by many. All this will sum up what IISSM-2005 was about.

The broad theme of the Seminar, "Total Loss Prevention Programme (TLPP) – An Integrated Approach for the Corporate World" was debated and deliberated upon by speakers from the field of security and safety as also by non-security experts from the corporate world, thus providing a judicious mix of best from all related areas of interest. IISSM-2005 started with the Panel Discussion on "Loss Prevention as a Concept." It was followed up by three other specialized Panel Discussions on "Private Security Industry’s Contribution to Loss Prevention", "Loss Prevention in Bank Security Management" and "Loss Prevention through Technology". Leaders and thinkers in security profession both in India and from foreign countries dominated the first two panels, whereas widely-acclaimed experts joined the other two panel discussions. The panel on technology’s contribution had Messrs Anand Mecheri, Executive (Chairman, iMetrex Group, Chennai), Bhaskar Ganguly (Director, Security Solutions, Asia Pacific, Honeywell India Ltd.), Dr. R.K. Bhargava (President, Tencon Systems) and B.G. Gupta (Consultant, SCI Software India Pvt.) Among the captivating individual presenters were Messrs Capt. (Retd.) Raghu Raman (CEO, Mahindra Special Services Group), Subhashis Nath (Partner, Axis Risk Consulting), Brig. (Retd.) S. Sreeramulu (Chief Security Advisor, Union Bank of India), Capt. (Retd.) S.B. Tyagi (Chief Manager (Security) GAIL (I) Limited) and Mr. Raj Lakha (Chief Executive, Safety Solution UK Ltd). The majority of the delegates have opted in their feedback reports to listen to them again and again. Speakers like Mr. S.J. Grogan (USA), Mr. James L. Fowler (USA) and Mr. Kris Pillay (South Africa) had also chipped in with specific case studies. All these resulted in highly interactive sessions all through. The very first panel evoked the debate with one view asking whether total loss prevention was achievable and the other camp holding that total loss prevention was inevitable. There was then the general agreement that expenditure on security is an investment in profit and that the overall role of security professionals is to identify any source of loss, devise procedures to prevent / control loss and inform / convince the management about the steps to be taken. It was also agreed that, through seminars like this and by other means and using information technology, there should be exchange of experiences and expertise so that professionalism in security industry is continually improved to serve the interests of security and safety of economic activity world wide.

Some time was devoted to expose the delegates to the pros and cons of the recently-enacted Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act 2005, in India. There could not have been a better person to undertake this task than Kunwar Vikram Singh, Chairman of the Joint Action Council for Security Industry (JACSI), formed for monitoring this Act and helping the government with necessary inputs for the framing of the Central Rules under this Act after which the Act has to be enacted in different State Legislations for implementation.

It was very appropriate that the President of Security Association of Nepal, Mr. Basudeb Bhandari was there as a delegate to share his experience of the private security situation in Nepal. The delegation from Singapore was provided with a copy of the Indian Act for facilitating necessary changes in the Singapore Act.

The average participation in the daily proceedings hovered between 120 and 140 with over 100 registered and observer delegates, and faculties, panelists and other IISSM officials. Between them they represented service providers, public and private sector end-users, manufactures, academics and also government delegates.

IISSM took this occasion to bestow Veterans’ Awards on:

1. Kunwar Vikram Singh, India.
2. Mr. Jasbir Wasu, India.
3. Mr. Pawanjit Ahluwalia, India.
4. Cdr. (Retd.) O.P. Bakshi, India.
5. Dr. M. Jeyaraj, Singapore.
6. Maj. (Retd.) P. Kalastree, Singapore.

The Annual Awards Committee, chaired by Mr. S.J. Grogan, had, it is believed, a tough time in choosing the winners and finally announced the following results:

1. Security Agency of the Year – Security & Intelligence Services (India) Limited, India.
2. Security Practitioners of the Year – Mr. Daniel Dowson, Noble Security Management Services Pte Ltd., Singapore.
3. Private Investigator of the Year - Mr. T. Mogan, Dragnet Private Investigation and Security Consultants Pte Ltd., Singapore.
4. Security Operations Manager of the Year – Mr. A. K. Singh, GM, Vision Security Group, India.
5. Safety Man of the Year – Mr. Samir Kumar, Assistant Security Officer, SIS (I) Limited, India.

There was a special Award for senior Board member Mr. S. Sripall, IPS (Retd.). He had the distinction of being enrolled in the American Police Hall of Fame. The Award was announced by Mr. S.J. Grogan who had brought it all the way from the USA and conferreud that on Mr. Sripall at the valedictory session.

The Board of Governors of IISSM, which had as usual met during the course of IISSM-2005, took some very significant decisions in the restructuring of the Board of Governors, the details of which were announced in the general meeting of the Seminar. Representatives from service providers and service users were formally elected by the registered delegates of IISSM-2005. The BOG also approved of IISSM entering into a joint venture with CEMS (Conference & Exhibition Management Services Pte Ltd) of Singapore in connection with organising FIRE & SECURITY INDIA 2006 and IISSM’s XVIth Annual International Seminar in Delhi along with that on December 13-15, 2006, CEMS made a presentation on that during the occasion of the gala dinner (December 8, 2005), which turned out to be a huge occasion for socialising and networking.

Attention of the delegates was drawn to the IISSM Newsletter on the website. On the subject of how to make it more useful professionally, it was recommended that all those working in different fields of expertise might like to share the result of their research so as to make the IISSM Newsletter a kind of clearing house for state-of-the-art technology in security and safety management. That way this Newsletter would one day develop into a Data Library having inputs from professionals, rivals or competitors alike, for continuous updation of professionalism in security industry as a whole.

Another milestone was achieved during IISSM-2005. With some very encouraging and participative support from some delegates, the formation of the Delhi (National Capital Region) Chapter of IISSM was announced at the valedictory session of the Seminar, with Mr. B.L. Vohra, IPS (Retd.) as the Chapter Chairman. IISSM would like to congratulate all involved in this exercise, which certainly marked a very big step towards bringing in professionalism in security and safety industry.

No account of IISSM’s annual Seminar is complete without a special reference to the sightseeing programme for spouses, led and organised by Mr. Rita Kishore Sinha. The sightseeing, it is believed, also resulted in giving encouragement to some traders in some pockets of Delhi. Let this tradition be kept up year after year.

But, what finally takes the cake was the extent and level of cooperation displayed by the delegates as also all other concerned. IISSM salutes them and feels delighted to put its humble appreciation on record.

IISSM 2004 - A Report
Success Story of IISSM-2004

All is well that ends well - thus goes an age-old proverb. By that test, IISSM-2004 was indeed a runaway success. So observed the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, in his valedictory address, "Violence has no place in modern day society and more so in a democratic system. Perhaps IISSM may like to design some seminars with focus on such principles since IISSM is fast growing into an authoritative agency for Security and Safety Management." The Chief Minister's appreciation was also clear when he stated: "I am also happy to note that IISSM is planning to establish a new chapter at Hyderabad. In this connection my Government will certainly help you as it is our determination to ensure a secure and peaceful atmosphere in the state." Needless to say, IISSM will bank heavily on such appreciation and assurance from the State Chief Minister.

The tenor for the 4-day schedule was earlier clearly laid down by His Excellency Mr. Sushilkumar Shinde, the Governor of Andhra Pradesh, when he stated in his inaugural address, "Security training is not parrot-like recitation of the provisions of Law, not merely the ability to shoot accurately; it is the right attitude to work, the right desire to do the job effectively, the imbibing of the right knowledge and skills required for the effective discharge of duties in a manner compatible with law and public interest. It is a continuous concept and not an end in itself." He enjoined upon the security professionals their tasks in the following words: "In today's fluid national and international situation and growing security concern across the world, there is no dearth of opportunities for a security organization. The challenge lies in your ability to rise to the occasion whenever an opportunity beckons you and prove yourself professionally competent for the task. Collectively and individually, each one of you must work to constantly update your knowledge, skills and attitude to be abreast with the latest developments in the field of security. There should be considerable emphasis to make the training more meaningful, complete and integrated, stressing on personality development, character building and inculcation of human values. Adaptation to new technologies and innovative application of scientific security management principles will help you grow as an organization and also as individuals within it. In the end, what will endure will be only the professionalism." We are given to understand the Governor "was much impressed by the ceremony (inaugural), the attendance and the way the whole thing was conducted. He praised IISSM's efforts highly."

Earlier, in is welcome address, Mr. K.P. Medhekar, IPS (Retd.), Chairman, IISSM, had expressed the concern that "the international security environment is still so sensitive and unpredictable that we must have a proper assessment of the situation of this area of human concern. To face such an area of darkness, we need to have highly trained professionals at all levels to advise and act, and help the governmental administrations. There can be no two views about this requirement of the present day." Emphasizing that security today was the fastest growing industry in the world with so much of money being invested in it globally, he raised the issue, "Should not part of it go into training and imparting knowledge processes as well as literature about the technology?" Further adding that the development of human resources had to be given due priority, he said modernization of training and knowledge of security system was no longer optional.

The ball was set rolling in the first few business sessions, outlining the principles of training and instructions and how to design security training programme. As the attached copy of the work schedule followed will show expert faculties covered different aspects of training including IT Security, Technological Aids & HRD. There was also a specific presentation on management technology by an established management expert. In a significant innovation, this year's Seminar included four presentations and panel discussions based on case studies in the banking sector, Gas Authority of India Limited, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy, and the training systems of Mauritius. A very senior representative from the Indian Bank's Association had joined the panel on the banking sector. Also in the Seminar was a 5-member Malaysian delegation comprising senior banking executives. There was yet another detailed panel discussion in which representatives of leading private security agencies, both inside the country and abroad, shared their methodology, which, according to them, had taken them to the top. It was indeed a very learning experience for all.

It was a matter of great satisfaction that a visit by all delegates to the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy, one of the best institutes for security functionaries anywhere, could be organized, courtesy Mr. Kamal Kumar, the Director of the Academy. The occasion was utilized by the President and Director General, IISSM, to present, as a gesture of goodwill, some valuable books to the Academy. The concluding session of the Seminar was chaired by Dr. S. Padam, the Dean of the Administrative Staff College of India, one of the oldest and classical training institutes in the government sector.

Most participants spoke of the need for awareness education or training to management and other employees who are not from the security profession. Security professionals should furnish their considered recommendations with integrity and let the managements make the final decisions with responsibility. The understanding and voluntary cooperation of all employees would ensure excellent corporate security.

The camaraderie developed and witnessed during the course of the Seminar matched, as someone observed, the quality of food served both during the days of the Seminar and at the gala dinner on November 25, 2004. Of the 150 participants, including delegates and faculties, a substantial number was from the public sector undertakings and financial institutions. As many as 60 security service providers were represented in the Seminar. Besides representing different parts of the India, the participants this year had come from Malaysia, Singapore, UK, USA, South Africa and Mauritius. The Seminar evinced tremendous enthusiasm from local security practitioners that eventually led to the formation of the Hyderabad Chapter of IISSM, which was formally announced in the valedictory session of the Seminar.

The spouses (limited though) enjoyed their visit to the historic Salarjung Museum and also the much-talked-about "Ramoji City". The delegates had visited the historical Golkunda Fort and also enjoyed the son et lumiere show that transports one to the days of the yore.

The contest for annual professional awards, as usual, evoked considerable competition. It was so competitive that the Awards Committee thought it wise to give the Security Practitioner Award of the Year to two contestants. The other awards given this year were:

• Security Agency of the Year 2004 - Vision Security Group, India.

• Security Practitioner of the Year 2004 - Mr. G. Madhusudan India.

• Private Investigator of the Year 2004 - Mr. Samuel F. Brown, USA.

• Security Operations Manager of the Year 2004 - Capt. (Retd.) S.B. Tyagi & Mr. Prakash Binjola, India.

• Safety Man of the Year 2004 - Late Madhusudan Prasad, India.

The Veteran's Award went to Mr. Harmon Singh, the eminent investigator from Singapore.

It is worth mentioning that IISSM-2004 had provided a good forum to two leading Security Magazines in India, namely, 'India Safe' and 'Security Today' to share their wares with the participants.

If what the participants had said in the open feedback session and expressed in their feedback reports as well, are brought on record, IISSM 2004 had indeed provided food for thought for all. Some valuable suggestions were also received. Despite the tight time schedule and the rigours of punctuality maintained in conducting the programme, the participants seemed to have enjoyed both the input and the interaction. The IISSM salutes the delegates for the level of interest and patience displayed by them. Their abiding interest in the proceedings was clear from the fact that the vast majority sat through the entire programme till late every evening. Their deep involvement was highly satisfactory and infectious. Someone joining the Seminar for the first time wrote, "I wish I had joined the IISSM Seminars many years back." We in the IISSM also learnt a lot. The entire event was a learning experience. From all indications, the future for the security profession definitely looked bright.

The road from Hyderabad comes back to New Delhi in 2005 where IISSM-2005 would be held. The exact dates and the venue of the Seminar will be duly announced in the IISSM Newsletter.

IISSM, 2003: Another Landmark in Security Profession

"Industrial Security has indeed become a mainline function and loss prevention is an essential function of Industrial Security", so observed the President and Director General of IISSM in his introductory address to the XIIIth Annual International Seminar of the International Institute of Security and Safety Management held at Hall No.7, Pragati Maidan, ITPO, New Delhi-110001 on December 6-9, 2003. Earlier, welcoming the delegates, the Executive President and CEO, IISSM, had appealed to all to take security to the ground and spread the message of security all around. "Our aim must be to involve the general public in preventive security measures which are vital for the nation," he said. Thus began the 4-day long highly interactive Seminar on "Industrial Security: Challenge of Changes". The theme being what it was, the Seminar covered subjects like security of cultural property, need for mastering soft skills, building partnership in security, economics of security, business espionage and the challenges before private security in digital era. There were also specialised discussions on hotel security, information security and threats before the shipping industry.

The Seminar was held in Delhi coinciding with the dates of the International Exhibition on Security, Safety and Fire organised by the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) at Pragati Maidan. With the help of the ITPO authorities, a visit to the above Exhibition was structured suitably. That provided the delegates an excellent exposure to the state-of-the-art technology displayed in the Exhibition. The panel discussion on technology that followed was a unique feature of the Seminar. The delegates had the benefit of closely interacting with representatives from manufacturers, dealers and end-users of security-related equipment. The session had indeed generated considerable interest and was enjoyed by every one. The session on security systems in neighbouring countries like Mauritius, Singapore and Indonesia added an excellent international flavour to the proceedings. The two presentations on IT security were both educative and thought-provoking. The delegates also took keen interest in risk auditing highlighted towards the end of the Seminar.

The high profile of the participants representing different areas including security agencies of the government, public and private sector industries, banks, private security agencies, scientific institutions and academics was a distinct feature of this year's Seminar. It was a matter of great satisfaction that even with a very tight time-schedule and notwithstanding some logistical problems, the delegates continued to take active part till the end. Both in their feedback reports and in the open feedback session, the vast majority of the participants expressed that they had enriched themselves considerably from the deliberations of the Seminar. Some highly interesting and constructive suggestions were received.

There was stiff competition for the Annual Awards of the IISSM in some of the categories. The Awards Committee found suitable candidates only for three categories and the winners were:
 

• Security Agency of the Year 2003- Vision Security Group, India.
• Security Practitioner of the Year 2003 - Mr. Terlok Nath, Singapore.
• Security Operations Manager 2003 - Mr. Atanu Sinha, India.

The IISSM felicitated the following five senior security practitioners by conferring the prestigious "Veterans Awards" on them:

• Mr. Jasbir Wasu, India.
• Ms. Rosalin Handayani, Indonesia.
• Mr. B.G. Deopujari, India.
• Mr. R. Swaminathan, India.
• Mr. Kerran Campbell, Dubai.

Apart from professional input, the IISSM Seminars are also occasions for socialising among security practitioners coming from different countries. The gala dinner on December 7, 2003, therefore, afforded ample opportunities for most intimate and informal exchange of views between professionals and professionals and between friends and friends of friends. The musical function and the presence of "better-halves" had added colour to the evening.

As usual, the Seminar ended on a high note with the presence of eminent personalities in the closing session. Padmabhusan Dr. R. A. Mashelkar, FRS, Director General, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), was the chief guest on this occasion while the guest of honour was Prof. Shishir Dube, the Director of IIT Kharagpur. While Prof. Dube laid emphasis on the special need for campus security, Dr. Mashelkar highlighted the importance and scope for security professionals in the first expanding industrial potential of the country, particularly in the wake of globalisation. "With technology galloping away, it cannot but have serious impact on industrial security," he observed. With the pre-eminence of knowledge explosion, a paradigm shift was noticed in every walk of human activity. He, therefore, highly appreciated the theme of this year's Seminar, "Industrial Security: Challenge of Changes", and congratulated the IISSM for having thought of it and spending time on discussing such an important issue.

While thanking all for making the XIIIth Annual International Seminar of IISSM a grand success, the President and DG of IISSM invited all to join the next annual International Seminar of the IISSM at Hyderabad in 2004, as decided by the Board of Governors of the IISSM. Eyes are, therefore, now set on the road to Hyderabad.

The Seminar could not have been organised at a better time when the global security scenario is in disarray," thus had observed Dr. Murli Manohar Joshi, Union Minister for H.R.D., Science and Technology and Ocean Development, while inaugurating the XIth annual International Seminar of the International Institute of Security and Safety Management, at Taj Bengal Hotel, Kolkata, on December 15, 2001. Calling courses in security and management the need of the hour, Dr. Joshi further suggested that the IISSM could initiate Degree or Post Graduate Diploma Courses in Security and Safety Management in collaboration with Universities and he assured that the Centre would provide necessary support in this direction. He also urged upon manufacturers to produce cost effective security equipment as even the smallest units of our society must use technology for its protection in this century of information warfare. Earlier, in his welcome address, Mr. K.N. Prasad, Chairman of IISSM, had observed, "With terrorism making our future unpredictable, we have to extend the frontiers of our knowledge in the professional technological and intellectual spheres and also in the thrust areas." Modernisation of our security system was no longer optional and would need constant review and updating, he had added.

Thus had begun the three-day long XIth annual International Seminar of the IISSM whose main theme was: "Industrial Security: Its Expanding Role and the Need for Systems Integration". Keeping in view the over-all security scenario, both in the international field and in India, the scheduled Course Design of the Seminar was appropriately adjusted to accommodate a topical presentation on "11th September - Its Impact on Corporate Security" by an eminent U.S. Security Consultant who had been present in New York on the day of the occurrence of the infamous attack on W.T.C. Towers in that city. Further thrust on terrorist problems was placed in three more terrorism-related presentations with special emphasis on chemical and biochemical sabotage and counter measures for commercial and institutional facilities.

Among other highlights of the Seminar were two highly interesting interactive sessions - one with prominent business executives and the other with three delegate experts on banking security. The business executives left no one in doubt that the business community had now realised the vital role of private security in raising the level of productivity through loss prevention, preventing commercial espionage and protecting them from kidnapping for ransom. They were, however, of the firm opinion that substandard security agencies must be eliminated. In return, they offered unreserved support for continuous review of the quality of security systems. The thrust of the interactive session on banking security was ensuring security of banks by integrated systems and with elaborate training methodology.

With keeping in line with the present-day security scenario, there was a highly valuable presentation on I.T. Security by M/s. Micro Soft Corporation (India) Private Limited, the Seminar provided a good and competitive insight into the expanding role of private security industry in Taiwan, Province of China, South Africa and Mauritius. The intervention on behalf of the Industrial Vocational Training Board (IVTB) of Mauritius was rather interesting. The business proceedings were rounded up with an exposure to the application of science and technology in industrial security - a must for the survival of security professionals. The open feedback session that followed thereafter, witnessed free and frank exchange of views as to how to achieve greater professionalism and make the Seminar more and more purposeful. The written feedback reports received later were rather appreciative of the Seminar in all aspects and many hoped to join the programme next year as well.

Even though the participation in the Seminar was somewhat adversely affected due to the uncertainty in the over-all security scenario, about 100 delegates, observers and faculties came from different countries including Australia, USA, South Africa, Mauritius, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, Taiwan, Province of China and of course form different parts of India. The delegates came from government institutions, private and public sector industries besides private security agencies.

The closing session of the Seminar on December 17, 2001, generated particular interest because of the Awards-giving ceremony, during which apart from the usual annual awards for: "Security Agency of the Year", "Security Practitioner of the Year", "Security Investigator of the Year", "Security Operations Manager of the Year", "Security Guard of the Year", and "Safety Man of the Year", Special Felicitation Awards for Veterans were awarded to eight senior professionals from different countries.

The post-conference tour this year took some delegates to the serene city Shantiniketan of Tagore as also to the hill-tops of Darjeeling. Daily sight-seeing for spouses, accompanied by buying spree of local specialities, continued to remain a hallmark of IISSM Seminars. However, the high quality of the presentations by eminent faculties and interactive floor participation did not provide the delegates much of an opportunity to go round the 'City of Joy'.

The Board of Governors, who had met during the course of the Seminar, have decided that the XIIth annual International Seminar of the IISSM will also be held in India. The exact venue and dates will be announced later.

Annual Professional Awards

As in previous years, one of the highlights of IISSM-2001, was the usual competition for IISSM's Annual Professional Awards. The winner work

• Security Agency of the Year 2001.
  Exservicemen Multipurpose Security Services ( India) Pvt. Ltd.
• Security Practitioner of the Year 2001
  Col. G S Chhatwal
• Private Investigator of the Year 2001.
  Mr. J S Gotmare
• Security Operations Manager of the Year 2001.
  Mr. Abual S Hakeem
• Security Guard of the Year 2001.
  Sri Subh Narain Pathak
• Safety Man of the Year 2001.
  Sri Raj Kumar Trivedi

The International Institute of Security and Safety Management held its Xth annual International Seminar-cum-Exhibition in Hotel Ashok, Bangalore, on July 10-13, 2000. It was a four-day long Conference in which well-known security experts from countries like Australia, USA, UK, Mauritius, South Africa, Bangladesh and India made highly impressive presentations on various subjects like executive protection, banking security, hotel security, electronic coverage, quality management, security needs for archaeological sites, security education, right balance between technology and human factor, response in evacuation scenario, use of global positioning technology in security etc. Over 200 delegates had registered from countries like the USA, UK, Australia, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, Taiwan, Province of China, Singapore, Bangladesh, Mauritius, Nepal, South Africa and of course from India. The delegates came from government offices, public and private sector industries, banking industry, hotels, private security agencies and academicians. The theme of the Seminar was Industrial Security: Vision and Mission in the New Millennium.

Inaugurating the Seminar on July 10, the Honourable Chief Minister of Karnataka, Mr. S.M. Krishna, spoke on the need for introducing hi-tech facilities in security management. Her Excellency Mrs. Rama Devi, the Governor of Karnataka, addressed the participants in a special session the same afternoon, in which she gave away the Millennium Awards for Veterans to nine distinguished veterans of the security industry. These awards were instituted this year to honour experienced security practitioners having a minimum of 25 years' experience in the security industry with significant and proven contribution to the industry.

The Honourable Home Minister of Karnataka, Mr. Mallikarjuna Kharge, had graced the closing function in the evening of July 13. In his valedictory address, he called upon the experts in the private security business to share their expertise with the governmental agencies as well. The nine annual nine awards for excellence in various categories of security profession and also for the Exhibition were given away during this session. The participants in the Seminar were also addressed by Shri H.C. Srikandaiah, Hon'ble Minister of Revenue, Govt. of Karnataka, Mr. A.M. Hindasgri, Hon'ble Minister for Labour & Wakf, Govt. of Karnataka and Mr. D.K. Shivakumar, Hon'ble Minister of Cooperation, Govt. of Karnataka, on different occasions.

The Exhibition alongside the Seminar had attracted 15 entrants. The demonstration of martial arts by the commando squad of the Security & Intelligence Services (India) Limited and Stall No.A4 displaying an Israeli stun device generated considerable interest and were appreciated by one and all.

The post-Conference tour, as usual, had drawn the majority of the foreign delegates to a two-night halt at the beautiful historic city of Mysore. The daily sightseeing in Bangalore for the accompanying spouses was of course there. Needless to add, there was a buying spree of the famed Mysore silk and sandal-wood products.

So ended the first decade of the IISSM. And now IISSM, 2001, beckons you to the unique city of Singapore on June 7-9, 2001.

Our Sojourn to Penang

"Our progress will be determined by our vision of the changing profile of industrial security, by our capacity to anticipate and respond to the imperatives of changes. The changes in our profile have to be basic, fundamental and even radical," - "And so our slogan for the next century should be "Change or Perish" - so concluded Mr. K.N. Prasad, Chairman, IISSM, in his welcome address before the IISSM'99. Quite in line with this conclusion was the assessment by Dato' Ismail Bin Hamzah, Deputy Secretary General, Ministry of Home Affairs, Malaysia, in his inaugural address: "With rapid changes in the world today, coupled with the use of high technology in business, particularly information technology, professionalism and management of private security agencies and their capacity in meeting the demands of clients, will have to advance in consonance with the developing world." In extending his "Salamat Datang" to all those present in the Seminar, Dato' Haji Rahmat Bin Ismail, Vice Chairman, IISSM, therefore felt, "we are pretty confident that once we all leave this Seminar, all of us will be a better person in terms of knowledge and business wealth, and hopefully, we could respond and adapt to changes that await us in the future." How prophetic he has been indeed!

Thus had begun the 3-day (July 12-14) long IXth annual International Seminar of the IISSM at Paradise Sandy Bay Hotel at Penang Island of Malaysia, known as the Pearl of the Orient for its beauty and charm. The theme of the Seminar was: "Changing Face of Industrial Security in the Coming Millennium." When at times the intellectual contents of the Seminar started appearing heavy, the healthy sea-breeze came as highly refreshing during breaks! So captivating and participative had been the discussions after each presentation that we feel proud to state that the percentage of presence throughout the Seminar was indeed highly satisfying and encouraging. Our gratitude to the esteemed members of the faculty and salutation to delegates!

A welcome addition to the IISSM family this year was the Kruse couple from Denmark. So also was another couple, namely, Chowdhurys, coming from Bangladesh after quite some time. While the IISSM continued to attract friends from the countries already in the IISSM net, it is worth highlighting that we had a fair number of representation from Malaysia also even when the country was passing through some degree of economic slump - thanks to the cooperation of cosponsors, namely, Messers SRT-EON Security Services of Kuala Lumpur, led by Dato' Haji Rahmat Bin Ismail and his illustrious son Mr. Razali who was the Chairman of the International Organising Committee. The IISSM would like to put on record its deep appreciation of the active cooperation and assistance received from them towards successfully holding the Seminar at Penang.

The papers presented in the Seminar were both varied and rich in their professional content, covering areas from Integrated Security Management to Technological Aids to Security via the routes of Human Resources Development and Leadership Challenges to special emphasis on the basic premise that Security Requires Precise Language. An integral part of the business session was the presentation of the speakers and the moderators by the IISSM's celebrated Master of Ceremony Mrs. Renu Mattoo, who did so with real aplomb and in her inimitable style that enthralled the participants all the time.

Though originally decided by the Board of Governors, no Exhibition alongside the Seminar could be planned this year. But such has been the call of the IISSM to all those who have heard of the IISSM, it will not be any surprise to know that some Exhibition booths had to be arranged on an adhoc basis to accommodate some enthusiastic distributors of security related equipment at the venue itself. We thank the Exhibitors for displaying state-of-the-art technologies in some areas and welcome them to display their wares in our next Seminar in Bangalore in the year 2000.

A special feature this year was the institution of nine (9) annual awards. The awards were:

• Security Practitioner of the Year 1999 (Mr. Vishwanatha V. Katti, India),
• Security Agency of the Year 1999 (Premier Security, Singapore),
• Private Investigator of the Year 1999 (Mr. James Tappin, UK),
• Loss Prevention Executive of the Year 1999 (Capt. (Retd) S.S. Iyengar, India),
• Security Operations Manager of the Year 1999 (Mr. Harindran A., India),
• Security Consultant / Trainer of the Year 1999 (Dato' Haji Abdul Hamid B. Mustapha, Malaysia),
• Security Supervisor of the Year 1999 (Mr. Inderjit Singh, India),
• Security Guard of the Year 1999 (Mr. Jugtar Singh, Malaysia) and
• Fireman of the Year 1999 (Mr. R.K. Trivedi, India).

The Chairman, IISSM, had announced a 3-member Committee to be chaired by Mr. S.J. Grogan, Regional Vice President of the IISSM in the USA. The other members were Mr. K.P. Medhekar, India and Dr. M. Jeyaraj, Singapore, both Vice Chairmen of IISSM. The awards were distributed at the Gala dinner in the evening of July 14, 1999 by Arthur Edmonds, Chief of Police of Penang. The IISSM congratulates the winners!

The IISSM felt happy in conferring Fellowship on as many as 11 (eleven) experts and special recognition awards to 29 (twenty nine) veterans of the IISSM. Additionally, all participants received Certificates of Participation and Affiliate Membership as well. The opportunity was also availed of to hand over CSC Certificates.

As in previous years, the sightseeing programme of the accompanying spouses was again a big hit. Mrs. Rita Kishore Sinha, ably assisted by Mrs. Chitra Nath, had earlier scouted the island of Penang and finally took the spouses to enchanting sightseeing programme that included a day-long visit to the famous Coral Island of Malaysia. We are told it was as fascinating as one could imagine. The ladies deeply regretted that they did not have their spouses beside them during this visit. An important segment of the spouses' programme was the shopping-spree, which was also "meticulously" planned to "ruin the pockets" of some, we were told. None, however, had any regrets!

The post-conference tour of these Seminars was as in every year a duly orchestrated programme. A good number of delegates and their families landed on Genting Highland as per schedule and well, indulged in some activities which are duly permitted by law but need not go on record for the future. The spirit was infectious and the overall programme was delightful.

So concluded the IXth Seminar, beckoning to the Xth scheduled in the last year of the millennium 2000 (July 10-13) at Bangalore, India. Our preparatory work for this has already started and our first coloured brochure is already out and will soon hit the website also. If we may share with you, some booths in the Exhibition to be accompanied with the Xth Seminar have already been booked. So, now that you have the detailed information with you, we shall look forward to meeting you at Bangalore around this time next year. And you know the theme of the Xth Seminar: "Industrial Security: Vision and Mission in the New Millennium." We are confident you will like to share your vision with us at Bangalore.

That the VIII annual Seminar of the International Institute of Security and Safety Management (IISSM) - IISSM'98, as we call it - will be held in Kathmandu on December 6-9, 1998, was formally announced at the VII such Seminar organised in Mauritius in November, 1997. The Board of Governors of the IISSM had, however, taken this decision in December 1996 at the VIth Seminar held in New Delhi, India. Well, organising these Seminars outside India is in pursuance of suggestion from international participants in the Seminars to convert the IISSM into an international body and to prove that by organising the Seminars occasionally outside the shores of India. It is indeed a herculean task to organise such Seminars in countries other than the country where the Institute is located. But, well, this was taken up and so we were in Kathmandu after the successful conclusion of the VII Seminar in Mauritius.

The Seminar in Kathmandu - IISSM'98 - was held at the magnificent Birendra International Convention Centre in Kathmandu, a few minutes' away from the airport. In accordance with prevailing practices in international conference of reckoning, national flags of all the countries represented in the Seminar as also IISSM flags were hoisted at all the 81 poles forming a semi-circle around the cemented front lawn of the BICC. The fluttering of these colourful flags in the mild wintry breeze of December was indeed a feast for the eyes. The thousand-plus capacity main auditorium was used for the inaugural and valedictory functions whereas the business sessions were held at the adjoining 250-hall, as it is known. The glass-top sky-room inbetween was the befitting venue for the tea/coffee breaks and evening get-togethers.

In his welcome address, Padmashree K.N. Prasad, Chairman, IISSM, explained the need for organised and systematic appraisal, evaluation and solution of emerging challenges to national, regional and global security. Hence was the theme of this year's Seminar : "Industrial Security : Need For Professionalism To Meet Its Challenges" he added. The Chairman then assured that if the Security professionals could appropriately meet the exacting demands of the future, the private industrial sector will have a promising future and become a purposeful and cooperative partner to the state law enforcement agencies in promoting peace, progress, stability and socio-economic growth. The IISSM was then privileged to hear from Mr. Govinda Raj Joshi, Minister for Home Affairs, His Majesty's Government of Nepal. In his inaugural address, Mr. Joshi emphasised that the emerging problems of safety and security should be identified so as to evolve new methods of dealing with them. The Seminar also had the benefit of receiving a message from Raj Darbar, Kathmandu, conveying good wishes of His Royal Highness The Crown Prince of Nepal, who could not inaugurate it due to his other prococcupations and busy schedule. Dr. M.M. Joshi, the Hon'ble Minister for Human Resource Development, Government of India, was to deliver the key-note address to the Seminar. He, too, however, could not make it to the Seminar due to pressing engagements. In his message, Dr. Joshi underscored that in the present day, there were a large number of factors threatening the security of not only the individuals but also of business establishment.

The business session started off with Brig. Genl. (Retd.) Richard Wilmot of the USA presenting a paper on Enhancing Professionalism Through Illumination Technology. The participants in the Seminar came from the USA, UK, Mauritius, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, Taiwan, Province of China, Nepal and India. While the IISSM welcomes the new members to the IISSM family from Turkey and Saudi Arabia, it is regretfully noted that some friends from Australia, Bangladesh, Canada and Indonesia missed the Seminar due to some last minute exigencies of the situation. Be that as it may, the enthusiasm displayed by the observers from Royal Nepal Army and the Turkish delegation was indeed infectious. The subjects covered by the members of the faculty, who came from different parts of the world, varied from Management of Stress and Strain to Executive Management of Contingencies in the 21st Century, from Leadership Qualities Required for Security Operation to Positive Thinking for Achieving Professionalism, from CCTV in the Next Millennium to Radiation and Environment Security, from Retail Crime to How to Keep Business Travellers Safe, from Information Security to Psycho-social Aspects of Work Environment, etc. There were also as many as three specialised presentations on different aspects of HRD, highly appreciated by one and all. The floor participation after every presentation was rather enthusiastic. The esteemed moderators had indeed a tough job in hand in view of the inevitable time constraint. The IISSM salutes the speakers, the moderators as well as the participants for making all the business sessions so lively and educative.

A special word of thanks and gratitude to Mr. Renu Mattoo, who besides being a faculty herself, thrilled the participants in her role as the Master of the Ceremony from inauguration to valediction. Her inimitable style of introducing the speakers added spice and humour to the stern professional security environment. Well, Mrs. Mattoo! the IISSM is grateful to you for the pains you had taken but at the same time the graceful manner in which you had discharged the onerous job of the MOC!

For the accompanying spouses, IISSM'98 will remain a story of endless sight-seeing and indulgence in shopping spree. As has become known over the years, the infectious enthusiasm of ever-ebullient Mrs. Rita Kishore Sinha, the wife of President & Director General, Mr. R.K. Sinha, virtually goads the spouses to move around on all the days of the Seminar and reports this year suggest that many of them have left Kathmandu rather empty handled but laden with pashmina shawls and jewelleries. Well, we are also thankful to them for making security deliberations and evening functions more colourful by their gracious presence. Needless to say, all this led to the 1-day post conference tour of Kathmandu and around on December 10 being practically a male infested programme. The delegates did, however, have a taste of freshly cooked Nepalese rice-dal-vegetable curry in the trip. Mention must also be made of the hospitality lounge every evening, where after the day-long deliberations the delegates found solace in spiritual matters and indulged in networking in the most leisurely and relaxed mood. The Nepalese dance programme at the poolside banquet dinner at Hotel De La'Annapurna was indeed delightful and the food delicious, if we go by some of the delegates' observation. Among those present on the occasion were the Hon'ble Home Minister of Nepal Mr. Govinda Raj Joshi as also senior functionaries from the Indian Embassy.

No account of IISSM'98 would be complete without a special reference to the dynamic Coordinator for the IISSM'98 Col. Hem Bahadur Karki, also one of the Vice-Chairmen of the IISSM. Well, in many ways, Col. Karki provided the finishing touch to all the preparations for IISSM'98 when he successfully interceded with His Majesty's Government of Nepal clarifying some doubts and securing the permission of HMG for the Seminar. The IISSM remains indebted to him on this account specially. So also was the invaluable help from M/s Columbia Travel & Tours represented by Mr. Satish Kripalani and Khem Thapaliya. Though technically appointed as the official travel agent for IISSM'98, these two individuals had virtually become a part of the IISSM Conference Secretariat and contributed immensely and always with a smile towards all ground level logistics required for such an international event. We salute them for what all they did for IISSM'98 in particular and for the IISSM in general.

All good things do come to an end and so did IISSM '98. Rt. Honourable Lt. Genl. (Retd.) Sridhar Samsher JBR was the Chief Guest at the Valedictory Session on March 9. Mr. Mahesh Dutt Sharma, Chairman, UP State Housing Board, was the Guest of Honour. Before proposing the formal vote of thanks to all concerned, the Chairman summed up most deftly the deliberations of the 4-day long Seminar and then the Chief Guest declared the Seminar closed. It was indeed a glittering function with all delegates, spouses, faculties, moderators as also the hand working officials of the Security and Intelligence Service (India) Limited, receiving awards and special recognition.

A picturesque country as Nepal is, some delegates had also made arrangements for private trips to different tourist spots, including the holiday resort at Pokhara which affords the most enchanting view of the Annapurna Range. Those bitten by the travel bug, also availed of the one-hour Mountain flight along-side the snowy peaks of the entire Himalayan Range from Dhaulagiri to Kanchenjengha, including the majestic Everest - an unforgettable sight indeed!

But all this was not the end. The Board of Governors of the IISSM had meanwhile met. The Board of accepted the gracious suggestion of Dato' Haji Rahmat Bin Ismail to hold the next IXth annual International Seminar in the beautiful island of Penang in Malaysia on July 12-14, 1999. So after fulfilling the commitment at Kathmandu, the IISSM is now set on the road or shall we say, the journey to Penang. All eyes are set on that. Till you receive further details on this, the IISSM website "iissm.com" will tell you about IISSM'99.

So it was done! The momentous decision of the Board of Governors of the IISSM taken on December 12-13,1996, to hold its seventh International Seminar, known by its popular acronym IISSM'97, for the first time outside the shores of India, has been implemented in letter and spirit. The IISSM'97, organised in the island country of Mauritius on November 24-26, 1997, has been a milestone in the history of the International Institute of Security and Safety Management in more than one sense. Attended by representatives from as many as fourteen countries, the Seminar had the unique distinction of being inaugurated by the Prime Minister of Mauritius Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam on the 24th of November, 1997, whereas its closing function was graced by Mr. Rajkeshwur Purryag, the Deputy Prime Minister of Mauritius, on the 26th afternoon.

Originally scheduled at the International Conference Centre at Grand Baie area in the North, the Seminar was eventually inaugurated at the Paul Octave Wiehe Auditorium of the University of Mauritius, situated in Reduit area in the central part of the Island. Apart from the befitting academic environ of the University, the sylvan surroundings provided both relief and added attraction to the international participants, particularly coming as they did covering long distance from their hotel in the North - a situation that could not be avoided due to circumstances beyond control. There was, however, another side of the story. The bus journey from the hotel to the Seminar venue and back was, to quote an overseas participant, something like picnic trips - a generous interpretation indeed!

After the inaugural function in the Auditorium, the business sessions shifted to Lecture Theatre No.1. Jostled in the hall were participants from Australia, UK, the USA, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Province of China, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, France, Reunion Island, Nepal, Hong Kong,Special Administrative Region, and of course, from India and Mauritius. Interestingly, they represented almost a cross section of professionals from different strata of society, adding variety of knowledge and expertise to sharpen and enrich the stereotyped minds of security practitioners - a gain of no less means! Among the faculty were well-known and well - established private security experts and scholars, academicians, medical practitioners, both serving and retired government security experts and fire and safety consultants. An innovation was a special session for women with a presentation by a Mauritian lady speaker Mrs. Premila Devi Dhunputh on "Women, Security and Society". The security profession, it is believed, will gain miles if security teachings can really be taken home and this could not be done better except by the ladies at homes. The other areas covered in the Seminar varied from International Terrorism to Security of World Heritage Monuments, from Security in Open Environment to Hotel Security, from Radiation Safety in Hospital to Fire Prevention in general, from Security of High Profile Executives to Loss Prevention and Security, interspersed with Licensing Experience in Hong Kong, HRD Experience in Singapore, Training and Retaining, Creative Management Strategies in the 21st Century and to cap this all, "Why Design A Security System" at all - a rich fare indeed for all receptive and inquisitive minds. This was amply proved by the simple fact that even the last business session was attended by the full house with intense interest - a great reward to the organisers. Please say, " Three Cheers !" for the IISSM!

The tone of discussion in the 3-day long Seminar was set in his Welcome Address by the Chairman, IISSM, Mr. K.N.Prasad, which was further buttressed in the highly enlightening Inaugural Address of the Honourable Prime Minister of Mauritius Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam. The Chairman underscored that the theme of this year's Seminar "Industrial Security : Need for Introspection" had been carefully chosen to enable us to utilise the next few years of the current decade to prepare ourselves for the next century. The Prime Minister maintained that the ever increasing danger to industrial and business security will most certainly put the inventive genius of even the most efficient and capable industrial security managers to severe test. He congratulated the IISSM for its pioneering efforts to focus on the growing security challenges facing the corporate sector as also for having chosen the challenging theme of the Seminar. In his illuminating Valedictory Address, the Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Rajkeshwur Purryag also complimented the IISSM for having organised an International Seminar of this magnitude in Mauritius. Needless to say, this was the first time that the island country of Mauritius had this distinction. He rightly highlighted that in addition to globalism and multilaterism, regionalisation was increasingly becoming one of the main factors in establishing the future world relations and achieving lasting peace, security and prosperity.

IISSM'97 suffered from some unforeseen handicaps. Due to local political developments, the International Organising Committee got deprived of the services of its Chairman (Mr. Raj Dayal, former Commissioner of Police, Mauritius) at the eleventh hour. Dr. Benjamin O, Ali, ILO Senior Specialist based at Ethiopia, could not turn up due to sudden urgent engagement elsewhere. The economic recession prevailing in South East Asia cut into the size of the Singapore delegation attending the Seminar. But there is always a silver lining to every dark cloud. We had a good number of participants from Mauritius. In addition to 59 regular Mauritian delegates, there were 30 observers from the Mauritian Police Force. We bow to our Mauritian participants for the interest and enthusiasm displayed by them all through the long three arduous days of the Seminar.

A highly satisfying side - story of the IISSM'97 was the fact that our Seminar was approved in principle on a one - off basis by the prestigious Industrial and Vocational Training Board (IVTB) of Mauritius. Apart from being an appreciation of the professional status of the IISSM programme, this gesture of the IVTB proved highly beneficial to the Mauritian participants from the point of view of registration fees. We take this opportunity once again to thank the IVTB authorities for this. Incidentally, true to their professional approach, the IVTB authorities had deputed some members of its Training Advisory Committee to attend some of our business sessions for monitoring purposes. It gives us immense pleasure to know that the feedback from this Committee was complimentary to the IISSM.

Lest one attending the Seminar misses out, simultaneously with it an Exhibition was staged, displaying various items of security and fire safety management. Our thanks for successfully organising this Exhibition, in the face of very uncertain situation till the end, are due to Mr. Gerarad B. Colin, Executive Director of AEL Engineers Ltd., Mauritius.

It speaks volume of our local coordinators, particularly the Regional Vice President, Mauritius, Mr. Raj Ghura and the Country Director, Mr. Deoprasadsing Seepergauth, that a coloured 52 - page Souvenir could be brought out on the occasion of the Seminar. Quite appropriately, therefore, the Souvenir carries a brief write - up by them on " Welcome to Mauritius - Paradise on Earth". The second part of the Souvenir forms the Special Issue of the International Security Journal, which we hope to revive on a quarterly basis if we receive adequate contributions from friendly professionals all over the world. The current issue contains seven articles of pure professional interest.

The miscellaneous features of this year's Seminar included calling on the Prime Minister, Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam by some selected delegates (comprising mostly the heads of delegations from different countries on November 26, a reception in the Indian House to some selected delegates on November 25 by His Excellency the High Commissioner of India in Mauritius, Mr. M.L. Tripathi and the banquet dinner for delegates & guests by the Chairman, IISSM on Nov. 24, 1997. Of course, there were arranged dinners for the delegates on the other two nights as well.

Last but not least, comes the lively daily spouses' programme followed by the post conference tour. As in the past, Mrs. Rita Kishore Sinha spared no pains in organising both sightseeing and buying spree for the willing and accompanying spouses. The zeal and meticulousness with which she performed this delicate and difficult duty even in a land foreign to her would indeed be lesson to many aspiring to be in any travel agent's group. It was, therefore, no wonder that some of the international participants came up on the last day to congratulate and compliment her on the dais. Hats off to Mrs. Sinha ! The post conference tour, scheduled on the 27th November, had, however to be postponed to the 28th of November, much to the disappointment and chagrin of some delegates and their spouses. Our sincere apology to them. This had to be done under compelling circumstances, we would have loved to avoid. Well, things are as they are! But the delegates participating in the trip to the beautiful island on the 28th of November will vouchsafe what others have missed. It was all speedboat, water-fall, parasailing, and swimming, duly beefed up by barbeque, fried seafish and what not to follow. We were lucky that we did not miss out any one while returning - the inclination to stay back was indeed that strong!

So, salute to the Paradise Island of Mauritius. Our Seminar is over but Mauritius and Mauritian friends will continue to live with us - at least till we meet again in IISSM'98. Kathmandu (Nepal) is beckoning to us. Are you ready? We do hope you say, "YES". Yes, I almost hear you say so.