Spy gadgets in great demand

by MICHAEL FISHER
Posted on 2008-12-05
PANAJI - Sophisticated electronic devices and gadgets for detection and surveillance have suddenly shot up in demand in peaceful Goa. The products include biometrics, video surveillance cameras, abbreviated as CCTVs, alarms and explosive sensors and locking devices.
Lease and rentals for spy and surveillance cameras are on the rise for outdoor functions and celebrations during Christmas and New Year and where the gathering is in mass. These products are being booked by thousands of hotels in Goa and private parties.
The security market in Goa is growing with commercial establishments, companies and governments looking to beef up their protection systems. It is learnt the Goa police are negotiating with security solutions providers from international and national companies. Displays and demonstrations are being conducted.
Terror and burglary are changing the face of security, which is often beats the rapid response systems of the law, said a security solution provider. “Today people are willing to spend Rs 25,000 upwards on security systems to secure their villas and bungalows,” said Mr Evan de Cunha of Elco Enterprise, Margao. “People living in villas and huge houses have started thinking of security as a comprehensive solution for some peace of mind,” he adds.
While the demand is growing for sensors, burglary alarms and electronic door locking devices, the hi-tech wireless and IP camera is the new craze catching on, said Mr Cejay Fernandes, a solution expert with Elco. He said the IP camera allows the viewer to sees his house, office or bar from anywhere in the world when connected to the Internet. The IP technology connectivity has come to Goa with BSNL wiring villages and towns with high-speed bandwidth -- a capacity of 1mbps -- which offers better access to net surfing.
Even after a feasible amount, additional cost arises due to the poor power supply in the state, a back-up supply unit or battery is needed to keep the electronic system running in the event of a power trip and breakdown. However, the security market is drawing more players and some are diversifying from manpower security.
Attributed to the terror psychosis gripping the state and the spate of burglaries, some five dedicated players in Goa like, Eleco are seeing business jump beyond 50 per cent from their Rs 35 lakh to Rs 40 lakh yearly turnover.
Researched by The Navhind Times bureau, the Indian market is growing by 30 per cent and this could be a Rs 1,800-crore business, reported by Honeywell, a major security player. IMPS Research, in its report, forecast that the video analytics market will explode in the next five years growing from $ 67.7 million in 2004 to $ 839.2 million in 2009, at a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 65.5 per cent.