The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved a nine-month extension for Alok Sharma, the Director of the Special Protection Group (SPG). Sharma, a 1991-batch IPS officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, was initially appointed on November 17, 2023, and was set to retire this month. As per the Department of Personnel and Training’s order, Sharma will now lead the SPG until March 31, 2027, or until further notice, starting from July 1, 2026.
The extension, granted under specific rules, showcases the government’s trust in Sharma’s leadership and his capabilities to navigate the SPG through changing security landscapes. Sharma, known for his extensive experience in policing and security, is recognized for enhancing SPG operations and fortifying protective measures. The SPG, established in 1985 post the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, is responsible for providing top-tier security to the Prime Minister, former Prime Ministers, their families, and other designated individuals.
With a reputation as a highly professional security agency, the SPG operates under the Cabinet Secretariat. Sharma’s prolonged tenure is anticipated to ensure stability in the leadership of the organization, crucial during a period where VIP security remains a critical and sensitive duty. The order for Sharma’s extension was issued by the Secretariat of the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions.
