The main differences between Z and Z Plus Security in India lie in the level of protection offered, with Z Plus Security providing a higher degree of security and a larger security. Read more in detail.
Nigam Sharma17 Jun, 2024
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Difference Between Z and Z Plus Security in India:
India, with its vast political landscape and a myriad of high-profile individuals, has a well-defined and structured security protocol to ensure the safety of its citizens, especially those who hold significant importance in politics, business, and society. Among the various security cover categories provided by the Indian government, "Z" and "Z Plus" security are two of the most recognized. These security levels are assigned based on threat perception, which is assessed by intelligence agencies. Here, we delve into the key differences between Z and Z Plus security, their components, and the criteria for their allocation.
Overview of Security Levels in India
In India, the security cover provided to individuals is categorized into six levels, in ascending order of threat level: X, Y, Y Plus, Z, Z Plus, and SPG (Special Protection Group). Each level entails a specific number of security personnel and protocols to ensure the protection of the individual. Z and Z Plus security covers are among the highest levels of security provided, apart from the SPG cover which is exclusive to the Prime Minister and former Prime Ministers along with their immediate families.
Z Security
Z Security in India provides a moderate to high level of protection, involving a security detail of approximately 22 personnel, including 4-5 NSG commandos and police officers. This security level includes an escort vehicle, a pilot vehicle, and comprehensive protective measures for travel and public appearances.
Components of Z Security:
Personnel:
Z security comprises a security detail of about 22 personnel, including 4-5 NSG (National Security Guard) commandos and police personnel.
Vehicles:
The individual under Z security is provided with an escort vehicle and a pilot vehicle. These vehicles are part of the convoy to ensure swift and secure movement.
Protection:
The Z security cover involves a well-coordinated team that ensures the safety of the individual during travel, at residence, and in public appearances. The security detail includes armed guards, and some personnel are trained in close combat.
Armament:
The NSG commandos are armed with sophisticated weapons and communication devices to respond to any threat effectively.
Allocation Criteria:
Z security is generally provided to individuals who are deemed to have a moderate to high threat perception. This can include politicians, high-profile businesspersons, and other individuals who face specific threats due to their positions or activities.
Z Plus Security
Z Plus Security in India offers the highest level of protection, typically for top-level VIPs, with an extensive security detail comprising 36-40 personnel, including NSG commandos, police, and intelligence officers. It includes multiple layers of security, advanced technological measures, and strict protocols for safeguarding the individual at all times.
Components of Z Plus Security:
Personnel:
Z Plus security is more comprehensive, involving a security detail of about 55 personnel, which includes over 10 NSG commandos in addition to police and CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) personnel.
Vehicles:
The individual under Z Plus security has a more extensive convoy, including multiple escort vehicles, a pilot vehicle, and sometimes an ambulance.
Protection:
This level of security involves rigorous protection protocols. The security team is tasked with the close protection of the individual, including advanced security checks, monitoring, and quick response teams to neutralize threats.
Armament:
Z Plus security personnel are equipped with advanced weaponry and state-of-the-art communication equipment. The NSG commandos are highly trained in counter-terrorism, VIP security, and close-quarter battle tactics.
Allocation Criteria:
Z Plus security is provided to individuals with a high threat perception, often involving those in high governmental positions, top political leaders, and other individuals at significant risk due to their roles or prominence. This level of security is more stringent and covers a broader spectrum of protection measures compared to Z security.
Key Differences Between Z and Z Plus Security
Z Security in India is provided to individuals who face specific threats and includes security personnel like NSG commandos and local police, whereas Z Plus Security offers an even higher level of protection with a larger security detail, advanced technology, and stringent protocols, typically for top-level VIPs facing severe threats.
Number of Personnel:
Z Security:
Approximately 22 personnel.
Z Plus Security:
Approximately 55 personnel.
Involvement of NSG Commandos:
Z Security:
Includes 4-5 NSG commandos.
Z Plus Security:
Includes over 10 NSG commandos.
Vehicles in Convoy:
Z Security:
Typically includes an escort vehicle and a pilot vehicle.
Z Plus Security:
Includes multiple escort vehicles, a pilot vehicle, and possibly an ambulance.
Level of Protection:
Z Security:
Provides robust protection but is less comprehensive than Z Plus security.
Z Plus Security:
Offers a higher level of security with more personnel, vehicles, and advanced protective measures.
Criteria for Allocation:
Z Security:
Assigned to individuals with a moderate to high threat perception.
Z Plus Security:
Reserved for individuals with a high threat perception, often involving top-tier politicians and significant public figures.
The differences between Z and Z Plus security in India are primarily in the scale and intensity of protection. Z security provides robust protection suitable for individuals with significant, yet moderate threats, while Z Plus security offers extensive protection for those facing high-level threats. The allocation of these security levels is meticulously assessed by intelligence agencies, ensuring that individuals receive the necessary protection based on their threat perception. This structured security apparatus is vital for maintaining the safety and security of key individuals in India's socio-political landscape.
Difference Between Z and Z Plus Security in India FAQs
Q1. What is Z Security in India?
Ans. Z Security is a security protocol provided to individuals facing moderate to high threat perceptions. It includes a security detail of approximately 22 personnel, including NSG commandos and police, along with escort and pilot vehicles for protection during travel and public appearances.
Q2. What does Z Plus Security entail?
Ans. Z Plus Security offers the highest level of protection in India, typically for top-level VIPs facing severe threats. It includes a security detail of about 55 personnel, including over 10 NSG commandos, along with advanced technology, multiple escort vehicles, and stringent protective measures.
Q3. How are Z and Z Plus Security levels determined?
Ans. The allocation of Z and Z Plus Security is based on threat perceptions assessed by intelligence agencies. Individuals with a moderate to high threat perception may be allocated Z Security, while those facing exceptionally high threats are provided Z Plus Security.
Q4. What are the main differences between Z and Z Plus Security?
Ans. Personnel: Z Security involves approximately 22 personnel, whereas Z Plus Security has about 55 personnel.
NSG Commandos: Z Security includes 4-5 NSG commandos, while Z Plus Security includes over 10 NSG commandos.
Vehicles: Z Security typically includes an escort vehicle and a pilot vehicle, whereas Z Plus Security includes multiple escort vehicles, a pilot vehicle, and sometimes an ambulance.
Level of Protection: Z Security provides robust protection suitable for moderate threats, whereas Z Plus Security offers extensive protection with advanced technology and rigorous protocols for severe threats.
Q5. Who receives Z and Z Plus Security in India?
Ans. Z Security is provided to individuals such as politicians, high-profile businesspersons, and other prominent figures with specific threat perceptions. Z Plus Security is reserved for top-tier politicians, high governmental officials, and other individuals facing the highest threat perceptions due to their roles or prominence.
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