RSS-backed NGO may run security academy in Goa

An RSS-backed NGO largely comprising retired defence officers and bureaucrats could run Goa's first security studies institute.

Speaking at a seminar here, 15 km from Panaji, organised by Forum for Integrated National Security (FINS), Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar said he would allow the NGO to operate a defence studies academy which the state government was in the process of setting up.

"Sometimes you wonder whether we seriously understand our security problem. Shortly, I am announcing the setting up of an academy which FINS can operate," Parrikar said.

"The state government will set it up. It can be a college of security or school or whatever word you want to use," he said.

The organisation which is linked to the Rashtriya Swawyamsevak Sangh (RSS) would also be given the status of a "registered official NGO for the state of Goa", he said.

The two-day seminar was attended by RSS' national executive member Indresh Kumar and two Goa-based RSS functionaries Subhash Velingkar and Jayant Lele.

Also present were top retired bureaucrats like former home secretary R.K. Singh and former Intelligence Bureau secretary Ajit Doval. Top ranked officers from the defence forces, including retired Naval Admiral Arun Prakash were also present at event.

While Prakash delivered the keynote address, Kumar outlined the challenges of "Development and Security of Bharatiya Islands and Coastline", a theme for the two day seminar.

"Goa would love to have an academy which would study this (security) as a subject. Necessary infrastructure will be provided. FINS can approach the government with a proposal," Parrikar said.

Claiming that patriotism was often "displayed through extremely incorrect sentiments", Parrikar said that some of his basic understanding on issues related to security came from being an RSS functionary in his younger days.

"I am a Swayamsaevak since childhood. I learnt there that if your job was providing security, then you are not controlled by any other obligation, even at the time of prayer. Because (for an opponent) that is your weakest time," Parrikar said

"The issue of national security is a matter of mindset," he said.