NEW DELHI: Union home minister Shivraj Patil on Monday asked security forces to equip and train themselves to counter chemical and biological weapons which may be used by terrorists in future.

Though he did not specify whether the Centre had intelligence inputs about such attacks, he urged

Addressing National Security Guard (NSG) commandos, who had assembled at Manesar near Gurgaon to celebrate the 22nd raising day of the force, Patil said the government was considering insurance cover for paramilitary personnel so that their families could be taken care of in case of any eventuality.

Besides, the Centre was also ready to extend all possible help to the agencies in terms of equipping them with modern weapons.

Amid reports suggesting use of modern technology and sophisticated weapons by terrorists, Patil said the use of powerful landmines and grenades had posed a big challenge to the security agencies and it was important to meet these challenges with better training and use of equally good weaponry.

The NSG commandos demonstrated preparedness for anti-hijacking operations, VIP security and bomb disposal to the gathering which among others included NSG chief J K Dutt and former home minister L K Advani. Patil's remarks assume significance as the recent use of Thuraya satellite phones and e-mails by Pakistan-based terrorists.