As industries expand in scale and complexity, the importance of robust industrial security has never been greater. Companies must safeguard intellectual property, critical infrastructure, and their workforce from a range of evolving threats. The pharmaceutical, automobile, and energy sectors face unique challenges due to the sensitive nature of their operations and the potential consequences of any disruption. Exploring how leaders in these fields adapt their security strategies reveals both common principles and industry-specific practices.
In pharmaceuticals, protecting research data and maintaining compliance are vital to brand integrity. The automobile sector’s large workforce and valuable production lines create risks of theft and internal unrest. Meanwhile, the energy sector underpins national infrastructure, facing threats from sabotage and cyberattacks that could have widespread impact. Across these sectors, industrial security has shifted from reactive measures to proactive, integrated systems embedded in daily operations.
Pharmaceutical Security
Alkem Laboratories, a major Indian pharma manufacturer, has faced increasing cyber threats targeting its research and development data. To address this, the company implemented a layered cybersecurity approach that includes AI-driven threat detection, strict access controls, endpoint protection, and comprehensive employee training to build resilience.
A tragic physical security failure at Escientia Advanced Sciences’ Visakhapatnam plant in August 2024 highlighted the importance of real-time monitoring and emergency preparedness. An electrical short-circuit led to an explosion that caused multiple casualties. Investigations revealed lapses in fire detection and response protocols, prompting a renewed focus on fire safety compliance and emergency drills.
Automobile Security
Maruti Suzuki’s Manesar plant experienced one of India’s most severe incidents of labour unrest in 2012, resulting in fatalities and extensive damage. Since then, the company revamped its security framework, integrating real-time surveillance, biometric access controls, workforce behaviour monitoring, and a grievance redressal system linking HR with security teams. Today, the sector also uses predictive analytics, automated warehouse monitoring, and rigorous vendor vetting to prevent incidents.
Energy Security
NTPC, India’s largest energy producer, protects its thermal and hydro plants through a centralized Command & Control system. This integrates physical access controls, perimeter intrusion detection, drone surveillance, and fire safety sensors. The company also collaborates with national intelligence agencies to guard against cyber threats targeting critical grid infrastructure. Regular security drills and training maintain high preparedness levels across facilities.
Facility Management
Facility Management (FM) plays a pivotal role in maintaining and coordinating industrial security systems. FM teams ensure that surveillance cameras, access controls, fire safety equipment, and alarms are fully functional and compliant with safety regulations. They organize emergency preparedness through drills and training, acting as a bridge between security vendors, workforce, and management.
FM also manages the vetting and monitoring of third-party contractors, ensuring they adhere to security protocols when accessing sensitive areas. By integrating new technologies such as biometric systems and AI surveillance into daily operations, FM helps maintain seamless security operations. Additionally, FM oversees compliance documentation and audits, ensuring that facilities meet regulatory requirements and industry standards.
Technology Trends
Advances in technology are shaping the future of industrial security. AI-powered video surveillance detects suspicious behaviour in real time, enabling swift intervention. Facial recognition and multi-factor biometric systems enhance access controls, while drones with thermal imaging autonomously monitor expansive perimeters.
Robotics and remote sensors reduce human exposure in hazardous zones and speed up response times. On the cyber front, behavioural analytics, threat intelligence platforms, and Zero Trust network architecture protect critical data and infrastructure from evolving threats.
The landscape of industrial security is rapidly evolving. Protecting pharmaceutical formulas, automotive assembly lines, or energy grids demands the integration of physical safeguards, digital intelligence, and human vigilance. Security is no longer a set of protocols but a dynamic mindset — one that must adapt faster than the threats it faces. Technology and proactive facility management form the frontline defence in this ongoing effort to secure the core of industry.
Compiled from various sources
| Security At A Glance | |||
| Industry | Key Risks | Recent Event | Response Measures |
| Pharmaceutical | Cyberattacks, fire hazards | Escientia fire (2024), Alkem cyber threats | AI-based cybersecurity, fire detection, EHS protocols |
| Automobile | Labour unrest, theft | Maruti Suzuki Manesar violence (2012) | Biometric access, CCTV, workforce analytics |
| Energy | Infrastructure sabotage, cyber | NTPC security intensification (ongoing) | Drone surveillance, multi-level access, intel tie-ups |