PM Urges PGR to Excel in Advanced Technology

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman stated that there is no scope for the President's Guard Regiment (PGR) to lag behind in adopting the latest technology alongside courage, efficiency, and strategy. The Prime Minister made the remarks as the chief guest at the function marking the 51st raising day of the PGR at Dhaka Cantonment today, Sunday.

The Prime Minister observed that beyond conventional challenges, multidimensional security threats have emerged for any force due to the current socio-economic, geo-political situation, and the unchecked expansion of information technology. Therefore, new frontiers such as cyber warfare, electronic warfare, drone warfare, and information warfare cannot be ignored. He noted that the concept of security is changing rapidly across the globe. Along with traditional security risks, cyberattacks, the misuse of artificial intelligence-based technologies, and hybrid security threats have created fresh challenges.

Addressing the PGR personnel, he emphasized that there is no alternative to enhancing tech-based capabilities, intelligence analysis, effective strategies, and round-the-clock preparedness to counter these challenges. He added that it is essential for every force, not just the PGR, to keep themselves constantly prepared through modern and time-befitting training. He further announced that the government has planned to modernize sophisticated forces like the PGR and SSF (Special Security Force) alongside the armed forces, and steps are being taken accordingly.

Announcing that the PGR has been nominated for the prestigious 'National Standard' award this year in recognition of its discipline, the Prime Minister said, "As a force, this is undoubtedly a matter of great pride for you. I congratulate you once again on this success. Your steel-hard sense of duty under any adverse circumstances is highly commendable."

Highlighting the historical background of the PGR, the Prime Minister stated, "On this glorious day, I recall with deep respect all the martyrs, heroic freedom fighters, and biranganas who sacrificed their lives in the Great Liberation War. I remember with humble respect the proclaimer of independence, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Bir Uttam, under whose leadership this force developed and took a new form. I also remember with deep respect former Prime Minister Deshnetri the late Begum Khaleda Zia, who made unique contributions to the expansion and excellence of this force."

Referring to the martyrdom of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Tarique Rahman said, "On May 30, 1981, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman embraced martyrdom at the Chittagong Circuit House due to domestic and foreign conspiracies. Five heroic members of the PGR sacrificed their lives in that tragic incident. Today, I remember those martyred heroic members and all other members who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty with deep respect." The Prime Minister also prayed for the salvation of the souls of the heroic fighters killed in the July-August mass uprising of 2024 and expressed sympathy to the injured.

Mentioning the scope and significance of the duties of PGR members, the Prime Minister said, "Your responsibility is highly sensitive, glorious, and challenging. The security of the heads of state and government, as well as local and foreign dignitaries, is deeply intertwined with our national security and dignity. To make the security system foolproof, it is essential to maintain effective coordination with other law enforcement agencies, intelligence agencies, and relevant ministries."

The Prime Minister advised the PGR members to be highly sensitive, adding, "While giving top priority to the protection and security of VVIPs, you must also be specially careful so that the connection between the public and the dignitaries is not disrupted."

Reiterating the government's commitment to developing the armed forces as a modern four-dimensional force, the Prime Minister concluded, "We have adopted the 'Bangladesh First' policy in formulating the country's defense plan, increasing deterrence capabilities, and determining national security strategy. Once this initiative is implemented, the efficiency and capability of the PGR, along with the armed forces, will multiply."

//DBTech/MAR/EK//