In a significant move to enhance security at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has floated a tender for the installation of bulletproof glass in the chambers of External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri at Jawaharlal Nehru Bhawan, New Delhi. The project, valued at ₹2.64 crore, is expected to be completed within two months and is part of a broader initiative to fortify key diplomatic offices amid evolving global security challenges.
The tender, released on September 16, 2025, outlines stringent specifications for materials, testing protocols, and installation procedures. It also mandates a five-year guarantee bond from the selected contractor, underscoring the government’s emphasis on durability and long-term safety.
Project Overview: Bulletproofing India’s Diplomatic Nerve Centre
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Location | Jawaharlal Nehru Bhawan, New Delhi |
| Offices Covered | EAM and Foreign Secretary chambers |
| Estimated Cost | ₹2.64 crore |
| Completion Timeline | 2 months |
| Material Requirement | Non-polycarbonate bulletproof glass |
| Frame Construction | 1.5 mm cold-rolled steel sheets |
| Testing Labs | TBRL Chandigarh or Gujarat Forensic Science Lab, Gandhinagar |
The tender document specifies that the bulletproof glass must not be made of polycarbonate and will be randomly selected for testing at accredited ballistic laboratories. This ensures that the installed glass meets national security standards and can withstand high-impact threats.
Security Protocols and Site Restrictions
Given the sensitive nature of the installation site, the CPWD has laid out strict access and operational guidelines. Jawaharlal Nehru Bhawan is a restricted zone with limited vehicular movement, and contractors will be required to obtain prior security clearances and passes for personnel and equipment.
| Security Measure | Implementation |
|---|---|
| Site Access | Pre-approved passes for workers and vehicles |
| Material Handling | Secure storage and transport protocols |
| Work Supervision | Approval from Engineer-in-Charge before execution |
| Final Handover | Formal inspection before departmental acceptance |
The contractor must also ensure the safety of all fittings and materials throughout the project duration, with no compromise until the site is officially handed over.
Tender Participation and Selection Process
The tender was opened on September 16, with eight contractors submitting bids. The selection process will involve a detailed review of design proposals, material quality, and compliance with MEA’s security standards.
| Tender Stage | Status |
|---|---|
| Tender Opening | Completed |
| Bidders Participated | 8 contractors |
| Evaluation Criteria | Design, security compliance, cost efficiency |
| Final Selection | Pending review |
Once selected, the contractor will be required to submit a comprehensive design plan for approval and begin work under close supervision.
Strategic Importance of the Installation
The decision to bulletproof the offices of India’s top diplomats comes amid heightened global tensions and increased threats to diplomatic missions. The MEA plays a pivotal role in shaping India’s foreign policy and engaging with international stakeholders, making its leadership a critical asset.
| Office Holder | Role |
|---|---|
| Dr. S. Jaishankar | External Affairs Minister |
| Vikram Misri | Foreign Secretary |
| Strategic Relevance | Diplomacy, crisis response, global negotiations |
The enhanced security infrastructure is expected to provide an additional layer of protection, ensuring uninterrupted functioning of diplomatic operations.
Material and Testing Standards
The CPWD has emphasized the use of high-grade bulletproof glass, which will be tested for ballistic resistance at either the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL) in Chandigarh or the Gujarat Forensic Science Laboratory in Gandhinagar.
| Testing Lab | Location | Certification Role |
|---|---|---|
| TBRL | Chandigarh | Ballistic resistance validation |
| Gujarat FSL | Gandhinagar | Material integrity and compliance |
Random sampling of the glass panels will be conducted to ensure unbiased quality assessment.
Installation Specifications and Design Requirements
The tender outlines precise construction standards for doors and window frames, which must be fabricated using 1.5 mm cold-rolled steel sheets. The contractor must also prepare detailed engineering drawings and obtain approval from the designated Engineer-in-Charge before commencing work.
| Installation Element | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Glass Type | Bulletproof, non-polycarbonate |
| Frame Material | Cold-rolled steel (1.5 mm) |
| Design Approval | Mandatory before execution |
| Guarantee Bond | 5 years post-installation |
These specifications are aimed at ensuring structural integrity and long-term performance under high-security conditions.
Broader Implications for Government Infrastructure
The move to bulletproof key diplomatic offices may signal a broader trend in upgrading government infrastructure to meet modern security demands. Similar measures could be extended to other ministries and strategic installations in the future.
| Potential Expansion | Target Areas |
|---|---|
| Ministry of Defence | War rooms, command centres |
| Ministry of Home Affairs | Intelligence hubs |
| PMO and Cabinet Secretariat | High-level meeting chambers |
| State Secretariats | Chief Minister offices |
Such upgrades reflect India’s evolving approach to internal security and diplomatic resilience.
Conclusion: A Strategic Step Toward Enhanced Diplomatic Security
The CPWD’s ₹2.64 crore tender to install bulletproof glass in the offices of the External Affairs Minister and Foreign Secretary at Jawaharlal Nehru Bhawan marks a decisive step in fortifying India’s diplomatic infrastructure. With rigorous testing, high-grade materials, and strict security protocols, the initiative underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding its top officials and ensuring operational continuity in a volatile global environment.
As the project moves forward, it sets a precedent for future security enhancements across India’s administrative and diplomatic establishments.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available tender documents, verified news reports, and official statements. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or procurement advice. All details are subject to change based on government updates.
