NSG hubs an archaic idea,says Narayanan

“I am concerned on the current emphasis on increasing the size and numbers of the NSG. I also have reservations about the establishment of four regional hubs. The NSG is an elite special force intended to meet a specific situation and not intended to confront the normal law and order situation,” he said.

“Its strength does not lie in its numbers,its uniqueness lies in the fact that it consists of the bravest of brave personnel,of great virtue and ability,specially trained for undertaking the most difficult tasks… increasing numbers (of NSG men),to my mind,is bound to dilute both quality and capability of the force,” he said.

The decision to create regional hubs was taken following the November 2008 attacks,during which the intervention of the NSG was seen by many to be a delayed response. As of now,four regional hubs of the NSG are operating. The force is headquartered near Manesar in Haryana.

Narayanan,also a former director of the Intelligence Bureau,said the NSG should be different than other paramilitary forces,and must develop many more special capabilities.

“NSG commandos are meant to kill,so they should know whom are they killing. If you do not now what the Lashkar-e-Toiba is up to,it is unfair to send the young men there,” he said.

He added that the commandos should have expert knowledge on all the terror threat groups like the Lashkar,the Maoist organisations and the militant outfits operating in the Northeastern states.

“NSG should also have its own air capability. Real emphasis should be on continuous modernisation. NSG cannot be doing what others are doing,” he said. He also envisioned a role for the NSG in counter proliferation and nuclear security.