Context: India, Malaysia plan counter-terrorism exercises for 2026

Source: The Hindu

Co-chairs India and Malaysia announced plans for a tabletop exercise in Malaysia in 2026 and a field training exercise in India in 2027 during the 14th edition of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Defence Minister’s edition Plus Experts Working Group on Counter-Terrorism, which was held in New Delhi.

The development of a strong and all-encompassing plan to address the changing danger of terrorism and extremism was the main topic of discussion. The purpose of the meeting was to exchange firsthand knowledge amongst the defense forces of ASEAN nations and their conversation partners. The activities, exercises, meetings, and workshops scheduled for the current cycle were all made possible by the meeting.

Model Question:

Discuss the challenges faced by India in countering terrorism. Evaluate the effectiveness of the institutional and legal frameworks in place to combat terrorism. Suggest further measures to enhance India’s counter-terrorism capabilities.

Model Answer:

Terrorism poses a significant threat to India’s national security, impacting social harmony, economic stability, and international relations. Despite a robust counter-terrorism framework, challenges persist due to the evolving nature of terrorist threats.

Challenges in Countering Terrorism in India

1. Cross-Border Terrorism: Pakistan-based terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) continue to infiltrate through porous borders.
2. Radicalization and Extremism: The spread of extremist ideologies through online platforms poses a serious challenge.
3. Intelligence Gaps: Lack of seamless coordination between central and state agencies hinders timely action.
4. Use of Technology by Terrorists: Terror groups exploit encrypted messaging apps, drones, and cyber-attacks to evade detection.
5. Terror Financing: Funding through hawala networks, fake currency, and crypto transactions sustains terrorist operations.
6. Legal and Procedural Delays: Prolonged trials and lack of witness protection often weaken prosecution.

 

Effectiveness of Institutional and Legal Frameworks

1. Legal Framework: Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA): Strengthens the legal response to terrorism by criminalizing terrorist activities and financing. National Investigation Agency (NIA): Facilitates effective investigation and prosecution of terrorism cases.
2. Intelligence and Coordination: Agencies like RAW, IB, and NATGRID provide actionable intelligence. Multi-Agency Centre (MAC) ensures inter-agency collaboration.
3. International Cooperation: India collaborates with countries through platforms like INTERPOL and FATF to curb terror financing and transnational threats.

Further Measures to Enhance Counter-Terrorism Capabilities

1. Strengthening Intelligence Infrastructure: Enhance technical surveillance, Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based analysis, and real-time information sharing.
2. Cybersecurity Enhancement: Develop advanced cyber forensics capabilities to monitor terrorist activities online.
3. Community Engagement: Implement counter-radicalization programs involving civil society and religious leaders.
4. Border Management: Deploy advanced surveillance technologies like drones and thermal sensors to prevent cross-border infiltration.
5. Legal Reforms: Expedite judicial processes through fast-track courts for terrorism-related cases.
6. Global Diplomacy: Strengthen participation in international counter-terrorism frameworks and push for the adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT).

A comprehensive, multi-pronged approach involving legal, technological, diplomatic, and social measures is essential to effectively counter terrorism. Strengthening institutional capacity and enhancing international cooperation will ensure India remains resilient against evolving terrorist threats.