New Delhi, May 14 — The security detail for External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has been significantly bolstered with the addition of two bullet-resistant vehicles to his Z-category armed central protection, according to official sources.
The upgrade follows a recent security review conducted by central intelligence agencies. The assessment recommended enhancing Jaishankar’s convoy with bullet-resistant vehicles in light of heightened security concerns. This decision comes amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives.
Heightened Security Amid Diplomatic Strain
The move to reinforce Jaishankar’s protection coincides with India's intensified diplomatic response to Islamabad, including a series of punitive measures. As the face of India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Jaishankar has been actively engaging with global leaders and foreign ministers to brief them on Operation Sindoor, India’s counter-response to the terror strike.Officials confirmed that the addition of two specially designed bullet-resistant vehicles has recently been implemented to ensure a higher level of safety during the minister’s movements. They also indicated that overall security measures surrounding the minister have been strengthened.
Z Category Protection and CRPF Deployment
Jaishankar, 70, has been under the Z category security umbrella since 2023, upgraded from the Y category following a previous threat assessment. His protection is managed by the Central Reserve Police Force’s (CRPF) VIP security wing.The CRPF currently provides armed security cover to around 200 VIPs, including prominent leaders such as Union Home Minister Amit Shah and members of the Gandhi family — Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.
The central protection list categorizes VIP security levels as follows: Z-plus (with Advanced Security Liaison), Z-plus, Z, Y-plus, Y, and X.
As India continues to navigate geopolitical tensions and internal security threats, the enhancement of security for key officials like Jaishankar reflects a proactive approach to safeguarding national leadership.
