New Delhi: In light of escalating tensions with Pakistan and recent cross-border hostilities, the Indian government has further enhanced the security cover of External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, according to an ANI report citing high-level sources. The development comes amid heightened threat assessments following a series of military and diplomatic confrontations post the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam.
Security Upgrade: From ‘Z’ Category to Enhanced Convoy Protection
Jaishankar, who currently receives ‘Z’ category armed protection from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), will now benefit from an additional bulletproof vehicle in his convoy, enhancing safety during his nationwide movements. His existing security detail already includes over a dozen armed CRPF commandos.
The enhancement is based on a fresh threat perception review, which highlighted increased risks for senior Indian officials engaged in strategic decision-making, particularly in areas concerning foreign policy and national security.
This comes on the heels of a previous upgrade in October 2024, when Jaishankar’s security was elevated from ‘Y’ to ‘Z’ category. The ongoing re-evaluation of threat levels underscores the government’s proactive approach to protecting high-value targets amid regional instability.
Who Else is Under CRPF Protection?
Jaishankar is among a group of over 210 high-profile Indian personalities receiving CRPF protection. This elite list includes:
Union Home Minister Amit Shah
Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari
Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra
Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama
These individuals are considered to be of strategic and public importance, meriting multi-layered security frameworks.
Jaishankar, face of India’s diplomatic strategy
At 69, S. Jaishankar has emerged as the principal face of India’s diplomatic strategy during this crisis. As External Affairs Minister, he has played a critical role in articulating India’s international position, justifying precision strikes under Operation Sindoor, and managing strategic communication with allies and adversaries alike.
His public appearances and sharp rhetoric have made him a visible and influential target, hence necessitating the recent security upgrades.
The enhancement of Jaishankar’s security is not just a procedural move but a reflection of India’s heightened alertness in the face of evolving threats. It underscores the volatile regional security environment, the growing role of precision military operations in India’s counterterror strategy, and the importance of safeguarding national decision-makers at a time of intensified geopolitical uncertainty.
