'œSecurity concerns have changed radically'?

President and CEO of the $12-billion Securitas AB group, Alf Göransson, was in India recently to meet the company’s core management team. In a chat with Manu Kaushik, he talks about domestic security issues and growth areas for the industry. Excerpts:

Has the role of private security services changed in recent times?
Over the years, there has been a radical change in the way security concerns are being dealt with. Corporate houses now understand that preparedness for various security threats is not just an administrative expense, but more of a business continuity investment.

What is the size of the private security industry in India?
At present, the size is over $1 billion. With an annual growth of 25-30 per cent, it is one of those few sectors which are growing. IT, BPO, banking and retail are key sectors asking for our services.

How important is training?
The industry is divided into organised and unorganised sectors and the key differentiator is the quality of personnel training. Given the cost involved, companies have become cautious about putting up under-qualified personnel as they want trained and effective people for the job.