National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO)

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About National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO):

It is a technical intelligence Agency under the National Security Advisor in the Prime Minister’s Office, India.
It was formed in 2004 to strengthen the country’s national security apparatus.
It is under the direct control of the Prime Minister’s Office and operates as an autonomous organization.
Primary Objective: Gather technical intelligence, which involves intercepting and analyzing communications signals, imagery intelligence, and cyber intelligence.
Other Functions:
- It also provides technical assistance to other intelligence agencies in the country, including the Intelligence Bureau and Research and Analysis Wing.
- It is responsible for maintaining a database of information related to technology and developing advanced tools and techniques for intelligence gathering.
- It also conducts research and development activities in the field of technical intelligence.
NTRO is headed by a Chairman who reports directly to the Prime Minister of India.
Its headquarters is located in New Delhi, and it has operational centres in various parts of the country.

Key Facts about Special Protection Group (SPG):

It is entrusted with the task of providing proximate security to the Prime Minister of India, the former Prime Minister and their immediate family members.
It was formed in 1985 after the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi as an executive body on the recommendation of the Birbal Nath committee.
Later on, it became a statutory body under Special Protection Group Act 1988.
Governance:
- It is governed by the Cabinet secretariat of India.
- SPG chief is an officer of the rank of inspector-general.

Q1) What is imagery intelligence?

Imagery intelligence is intelligence derived from the exploitation of imagery collected by visual photography, infrared, lasers, multi-spectral sensors, and radar. These sensors produce images of objects optically, electronically, or digitally on film, electronic display devices, or other media.

Source: Former Special Protection Group chief Arun Sinha appointed as National Technical Research Organisation Chairman