💥Mains Ready By December. Smash Mains & Smash PYQ Admissions Open
Talk to Mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

GS Paper: GS3-23.Security Challenges and their Management in Border Areas – Linkages of Organized Crime with Terrorism.

  • Anjadip Inducted into Indian Navy  

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Navy received Anjadip, the third of eight Anti Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC), on December 22, 2025 at Chennai.

    About Anjadip and ASW SWC Project

    • Type: Anti Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft
    • Role: Anti submarine warfare, coastal surveillance, mine laying
    • Length: Around 77 metres
    • Propulsion: Waterjets
    • Distinction: Largest Indian naval warships propelled by waterjets

    Builder and Collaboration

    • Designed and built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers
    • Project executed under Public Private Partnership
    • Private partner: Larsen and Toubro Shipyard, Kattupalli
    • Classification: Built as per Indian Register of Shipping rules
    [2016] Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently? 

    (a) Amphibious warfare ship 

    (b) Nuclear-powered submarine 

    (c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel 

    (d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier 

  • Does India need to upgrade its biosecurity measures

    Introduction

    Biosecurity refers to institutional and regulatory measures designed to prevent the intentional misuse of biological agents, toxins, or technologies. Unlike biosafety, which focuses on preventing accidental release of pathogens, biosecurity addresses deliberate threats to human, animal, and agricultural health. The expansion of biotechnology has increased human control over biological systems, simultaneously raising the risk of malicious exploitation and necessitating upgraded governance mechanisms.

    Understanding Biosecurity in the Indian Context

    1. Conceptual Scope: Ensures prevention, detection, and response to intentional misuse of biological agents across laboratories, agriculture, and public health systems.
    2. Differentiation from Biosafety: Addresses deliberate misuse rather than accidental pathogen release.
    3. Sectoral Coverage: Extends protection beyond human health to livestock, crops, and supply chains.

    Evolution of Global Biosecurity Norms

    1. Biological Weapons Convention (1975): Prohibits development, use, and stockpiling of biological weapons and mandates destruction of existing arsenals.
    2. Normative Significance: Establishes the first global legal framework banning an entire category of weapons of mass destruction.
    3. Implementation Gap: Lacks a verification mechanism, increasing reliance on national biosecurity systems.

    Drivers of Biosecurity Risks in India

    1. Geographical Exposure: Facilitates cross-border transmission of pathogens due to porous borders and ecological diversity.
    2. Agrarian Dependence: Increases vulnerability of food systems to agro-terrorism and livestock disease outbreaks.
    3. Population Density: Amplifies impact of biological incidents on public health infrastructure.
    4. Non-State Actor Threats: Highlights risks from terror groups, illustrated by reported Ricin toxin preparation cases.

    Role of Emerging Biotechnologies

    1. Dual-Use Nature: Enables legitimate research while lowering entry barriers for malicious experimentation.
    2. Technological Diffusion: Expands access to genetic manipulation tools beyond state laboratories.
    3. Risk Amplification: Increases probability of low-cost, high-impact biological incidents.

    India’s Existing Biosecurity Architecture

    1. Department of Biotechnology: Oversees research governance and laboratory safety frameworks.
    2. National Centre for Disease Control: Manages disease surveillance and outbreak response systems.
    3. Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying: Monitors livestock biosecurity and transboundary diseases.
    4. Plant Quarantine Organisation of India: Regulates agricultural imports and exports to prevent pest and pathogen entry.
    5. Legal Frameworks:
      1. Environment (Protection) Act, 1986: Regulates hazardous microorganisms and GMOs.
      2. WMD and Delivery Systems Act, 2005: Criminalises unlawful biological weapons activities.

    Institutional and Legal Gaps Highlighted

    1. Fragmented Governance: Dispersed responsibilities across multiple ministries without unified coordination.
    2. Surveillance Asymmetry: Strong outbreak response but weaker preventive intelligence mechanisms.
    3. Non-State Actor Focus: Limited emphasis on bio-terrorism preparedness compared to conventional security threats.

    Conclusion

    India’s internal security landscape is being reshaped by the convergence of emerging technologies, porous borders, and the growing role of non-state actors. While the country has built sectoral capacities in health, agriculture, and research governance, the absence of an integrated biosecurity framework leaves critical gaps in prevention and early detection. Strengthening biosecurity is therefore not only a public health or scientific necessity but a core internal security imperative, requiring coordinated regulation, intelligence integration, and sustained institutional preparedness.

  • INAS 335 (Ospreys) and MH-60R Seahawk Helicopters

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Navy will commission its second MH-60R helicopter squadron, INAS 335 (Ospreys), on December 17 at INS Hansa, Goa, marking a major step in naval modernisation.

    MH-60R Seahawk Helicopter

    • It is a US made, advanced multi role maritime helicopter.
       • Equipped with state of the art avionics, sensors and advanced weapon systems.
       • Capable of addressing both conventional and asymmetric threats.
       • Fully integrated with Indian Navy fleet operations.
       • Designed for sustained operations in open seas.

    Strategic Significance

    • Significantly enhances the Indian Navy’s operational readiness.
       • Extends the Navy’s operational reach, supporting blue water navy capabilities.
       • Strengthens India’s maritime presence in the Indian Ocean Region.
       • Acts as a deterrent against potential maritime threats.

    Prelims Pointers

    • INS Hansa is the Indian Navy’s premier naval air station located in Goa.
       • MH-60R helicopters form a key component of India’s maritime aviation modernisation programme.
    Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently? (2016)

    (a) Amphibious warfare ship 

    (b) Nuclear-powered submarine 

    (c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel 

    (d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier

  • DRI Seizes 32 kg Methamphetamine in North East

    Why in the News?

    The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has seized 32 kg methamphetamine tablets worth ₹32 crore in two separate operations in Assam and Tripura, exposing the continued use of the Indo–Myanmar route for drug trafficking. Three persons have been arrested under the NDPS Act, 1985.

    About Methamphetamine  

    • A synthetic psychostimulant
    • Known as Ya Ba / Speed pills in Southeast Asia
    • Highly addictive
    • Controlled under Schedule of NDPS Act, 1985

    What is Hydroponic Weed?

    • Marijuana grown in nutrient-rich water systems, not soil
    • Higher potency due to controlled conditions
    • New smuggling trend: carried by air passengers into NE India

    NDPS Act, 1985  

    • Regulates narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances
    • Provides for seizure, arrests, forfeiture
    • Commercial quantity offences: 10–20 years imprisonment
    • Empowered agencies: DRI, NCB, Customs, State Police, BSF, Assam Rifles
    Q: India’s proximity to two of the world’s biggest illicit opium-growing states has enhanced her internal security concerns. Explain the linkages between drug trafficking and other illicit activities such as gunrunning, money laundering and human trafficking. What countermeasures should be taken to prevent the same? (UPSC 2018) 

  • Government plans unification of port security regulations- sovereign entity to oversee private ports while CISF will regulate 80 ports

    Why In The News?

    The government has designated CISF as the security regulator for 250+ seaports to strengthen coastal security.

    1) New Security Framework:

    • Sovereign Entity at Seaports: Government to deploy CISF as a sovereign security force at private cargo-handling ports for a uniform security system.
    • Initial Coverage: CISF to regulate 80 major export-import seaports for access control, cargo screening, and seafront patrolling.
    • Phase-wise Expansion: Remaining 170 seaports will be brought under CISF in stages.
    • ISPS Code Role: CISF designated as the Recognised Security Organisation under the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code.

    2)Framework for Seaport Security in India:

    • International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code:
      India’s port security system aligns with the mandatory global ISPS Code, introduced after 9/11 to protect ships and port facilities from terrorism and other maritime threats.
    • Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) as Security Regulator:
      The Government of India has recently designated the CISF as the Recognised Security Organisation (RSO) for ports, marking a major reform to strengthen and standardise port security across the country.

    3)Challenges to Port Security:

    • Non-Standardised Security Framework:
      • Security at many non-major ports historically lacked uniformity and expert oversight.
      • Heavy dependence on private security agencies or local police resulted in inconsistent standards.
    • Transnational & Non-Traditional Threats:
      • Maritime terrorism remains a persistent risk.
      • Smuggling and drug trafficking, with ports often used for large narcotics consignments.
      • Cyberattacks targeting port IT systems and critical infrastructure.
    • Infrastructure & Manpower Gaps:
      • Difficulty in ensuring uniform, high-quality security infrastructure across 250+ ports.
      • Significant manpower shortages: CISF requires 800-1,000 personnel per major seaport and has requested 10,000 additional personnel for initial deployment.
    • Coastal Vulnerabilities:
      • Large stretches of coastline remain open, poorly monitored, or unguarded.
      • Absence of a sovereign security force at private ports has created long-standing security gaps.
    • Identified Gaps in Official Reviews:
      • Coastal security flagged as a priority for discussion at the Director Generals of Police (DGP) Conference, attended by the Prime Minister.
      • The 2023 MHA guidelines highlighted major deficiencies and recommended comprehensive improvements.

    4) Committee Recommendations:

    • Committee Findings: A 2024 Joint Committee (CISF + Director General Shipping) conducted gap analysis and proposed corrective measures.
    • Hybrid Security Model: Core security functions to be handled by CISF, while State Police/private agencies manage non-core duties.

    5)About CISF:

    • Overview: CISF is a Central Armed Police Force under the Ministry of Home Affairs, headquartered in New Delhi; motto: “Protection and Security.”
    • Establishment:
      • Formed in 1969 through the CISF Act, 1968 with three battalions.
      • Declared an Armed Force of the Union after the 1983 amendment.
      • Expanded into a multi-skilled force with 188,000+ personnel.
      • Provides security to 359 establishments nationwide.
    • Organisation Structure:
      • Headed by a Director-General (IPS), assisted by an Additional DG.
      • Divided into seven sectors: Airport, North, North-East, East, West, South, Training.
      • Has a dedicated Fire Service Wing.
    • Functions:
      • Secures critical infrastructure: nuclear and space facilities, airports, seaports, power plants.
      • Protects Delhi Metro, Parliament Complex, heritage monuments, and major government buildings.
      • Responsible for airport security since 2000 (post IC-814 hijacking).
      • Provides VIP security to designated protectees.
      • Trained in disaster management (floods, earthquakes, cyclones).
      • Operates India’s largest Fire Protection Service among CAPFs.
      • Post-2008 Mumbai attacks, expanded to private sector security.
      • Functions as a compensatory cost force, billing clients for services.
    [UPSC 2023] With reference to Home Guards, consider the following statements:

    1. Home Guards are raised under the Home Guards Act and Rules of the Central Government.

    2. The role of the Home Guards is to serve as an auxiliary force to the police in maintenance of internal security.

    3. To prevent infiltration on the international border/coastal areas, the Border Wing Home Guards Battalions have been raised in some States.

    How many of the above statements are correct?

    Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two* (c) All three (d) None

     

  • India-Pakistan tensions put strain on struggling Western Border Districts

    Why in the News?

    Most western border districts, except in Gujarat, had little or no growth in exports and saw slow poverty reduction. Now, recent tensions and shelling between India and Pakistan are hurting the economy in these 22 districts.

    What causes slower poverty reduction in border districts?

    • Geopolitical Tensions and Hostile Neighbours: Constant threats such as cross-border shelling along the LoC disrupt livelihoods, infrastructure, and public services. Eg: In Jammu & Kashmir, border districts face frequent disruptions due to tensions with Pakistan, limiting economic stability and job opportunities.
    • Limited Economic and Industrial Activity: Border districts often lack a strong industrial base or service sector, leading to low income-generation and underemployment. Eg: In Rajasthan and Punjab, several border districts showed slower poverty reduction than State averages due to stagnant economic growth.
    • Inadequate Infrastructure: Poor roads, communication networks, and market access hinder economic integration and development. Eg: Eastern States like Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland face challenges due to remote terrain and limited connectivity, contributing to persistent poverty.
    • Declining Development Fund: Post-pandemic, central funding under schemes like the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) has declined sharply. Eg: After FY20, both western and eastern border areas experienced reduced support, slowing poverty reduction efforts.
    • Landlocked and Isolated Geography: Many border districts, especially in the Northeast, are landlocked and rely on external transport hubs, limiting local trade and economic activity. Eg: In Assam, 75% of border districts had a slower decline in poverty than the State average between 2015–16 and 2019–21.

    Why are exports stagnant in most border districts except Gujarat?

    • Lack of Industrial and Export Ecosystem: Most border districts lack industrial clusters, export-processing zones, and supply chain infrastructure, which hampers export activity. Eg: Border districts in Punjab, Rajasthan, and Jammu & Kashmir contribute only 0.3% to India’s total exports, showing minimal export potential.
    • Geopolitical and Security Constraints: Tensions with neighboring countries and border insecurities restrict cross-border trade and deter investment in export-oriented industries. Eg: Frequent cross-border shelling along the LoC in J&K and Rajasthan affects trade operations and discourages private sector involvement.
    • Gujarat’s Strategic Advantage and Policy Support: Gujarat benefits from a coastal location, developed infrastructure, and proactive industrial policies, enabling strong export growth. Eg: Border districts in Gujarat increased their export share from 1.9% in FY22 to 3% in FY24, in contrast to stagnation elsewhere.

    Which border districts performed better economically?

    • Gujarat is the  only western border State where all border districts saw a faster decline in poverty than the State average.
    • Eg: export share from border districts rose from 1.9% (FY22) to 3% (FY24) — indicating successful economic activity.

    Why did the government’s support to border areas decline?

    • Reallocation of Resources Post-Pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic shifted national priorities toward healthcare, urban welfare, and fiscal recovery, resulting in reduced focus on border-specific programmes. Eg: Post FY20, schemes like the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) faced budget cuts as funds were redirected to pandemic-related needs.
    • Security-Centric Approach Over Development: In sensitive regions, the government adopted a more security-focused strategy, often at the cost of developmental spending in border districts. Eg: In J&K and Punjab, heightened defence and surveillance measures took precedence, sidelining economic initiatives and local development schemes.
    • Administrative and Logistical Challenges: Border areas, especially in the Northeast, face issues like difficult terrain, poor connectivity, and limited administrative reach, deterring consistent support. Eg: In Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh, implementation hurdles led to underutilization of allocated funds, reducing the impact of central schemes.

    Way forward: 

    • Targeted Development & Infrastructure Boost: Prioritise region-specific infrastructure (roads, logistics hubs, digital connectivity) and promote border-based industrial clusters to generate employment and improve trade potential.
    • Revive and Expand BADP with Integrated Planning: Strengthen the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) with post-pandemic funding revival, and ensure convergence with state schemes for holistic socio-economic upliftment of border districts.

    Mains PYQ:

     [UPSC 2024] Examine the conflicting issues and security challenges along the border. Also give out the development being undertaken in these areas under the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) and Border Infrastructure and Management (BIM) Scheme.

    Linkage: The security problems along the border, such as India-Pakistan tensions and cross-border shelling, as seen in the “India’s Border Districts”. It also explores how development programmes address these issues, directly linking security challenges with economic and development concerns in border regions. It clearly connects border tensions with the economic struggles in these areas.

  • Defence funds decline, BRO gets backing 

    Why in the News?

    Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has allocated ₹6.22 lakh crore for the Defence Ministry for 2024-25, matching the amount presented in the interim Budget in February.

    Budgetary allocation for different sectors 

    • Border Roads Organisation (BRO): The BRO received a significant increase in funding, with an allocation of ₹6,500 crore, aimed at improving border infrastructure and promoting socio-economic development in border areas.
    • Indian Coast Guard: The allocation for the Indian Coast Guard is ₹7,651.8 crore, which is 6% lower than the revised estimates for FY24. Of this, ₹3,500 crore is designated for capital expenditure to enhance maritime capabilities.
    • Innovation in Defence: An additional ₹400 crore has been allocated for innovation in defence through the Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI) scheme, aimed at engaging startups and MSMEs in developing indigenous defence technologies.
    • Overall Allocation Breakdown: The allocation for the Defence Ministry includes 27.66% for capital expenditure, 14.82% for revenue expenditure, 30.66% for pay and allowances, 22.7% for defence pensions, and 4.17% for civil organizations under the Defence Ministry.

    Marginal Capex Push

    • Slight increase in capital expenditure: The budget reflects a marginal increase in capital expenditure, focusing on strengthening the capabilities of the armed forces and enhancing domestic procurement.
    • Strategic infrastructure development: The increased allocation to the BRO and the Coast Guard indicates a strategic push towards improving infrastructure in border areas and maritime security, though the overall capital push remains modest.
    • Focus on Indigenous solutions: The emphasis on domestic capital procurement and innovation through the iDEX scheme aims to bolster self-reliance in defence technology, fostering a more robust Indigenous defence industry.
    • Long-term strategic goals: The allocations are aligned with long-term strategic goals, including enhancing operational preparedness and infrastructure development in sensitive regions, although the overall growth in capital expenditure may be viewed as conservative.
    • Balancing defence needs with budget constraints: While the budget seeks to address critical defence needs, the slight reduction in the overall percentage of the budget allocated to defence suggests a balancing act between defence priorities and other pressing social and economic needs.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Focus on Indigenous Production: The government should further promote indigenous production capabilities by increasing investments in research and development, and by providing incentives for domestic manufacturers to produce advanced defence technologies.
    • Strengthen Infrastructure Development: The need for continued emphasis on infrastructure projects, particularly in border areas, should be prioritized to enhance national security and socio-economic development, ensuring that allocations are effectively utilized for maximum impact.

  • A dark message to Delhi from Kangla Fort

    A dark message to Delhi from Kangla Fort - The Hindu

    Central Idea:

    The article discusses a significant event in Manipur where Meitei legislators, through a public oath at Kangla Fort, endorsed a six-point agenda with communal overtones, targeting the ‘Kuki’ community. This act, influenced by an armed militia called Arambai Tenggol, reflects a departure from constitutional duties and raises concerns about the legitimacy of elected representatives in a democratic state. The piece warns against the dangers of a radical agenda and highlights the potential parallels with historical incidents like the Bhindranwale episode in Punjab.

    Key Highlights:

    • Meitei legislators endorse a six-point agenda with communal overtones, targeting the ‘Kuki.’
    • The oath-taking event at Kangla Fort is orchestrated by the armed militia, Arambai Tenggol.
    • The agenda includes abrogating agreements, implementing NRC with 1951 as the base year, constructing a border fence, replacing Assam Rifles, removing ‘Kuki’ from Scheduled Tribe list, and relocating ‘Kuki refugees.’
    • The omission of ‘disarmament’ from the agenda raises concerns about the armed militia’s influence.

    Key Challenges:

    • The event reflects a departure from constitutional duties by elected representatives.
    • The influence of an armed militia on democratic processes raises questions about the legitimacy of the Indian state.
    • The communal overtones in the agenda may deepen the emotional, demographic, and territorial divide.

    Key Terms/Phrases:

    • Shumang Leela: Traditional form of theatre in Manipur.
    • Kangla Fort: The symbolic and traditional seat of power in Manipur.
    • Arambai Tenggol: An armed militia influencing Meitei legislators and pushing a radical agenda.
    • Bhindranwale Moment: Reference to the radicalization and armed conflict in Punjab during the 1980s.

    Key Quotes:

    • “Legislators lost Tagore’s dream of ‘clear stream of reason’ and a fearless mind.”
    • “Elected representatives…pliable and can be blackmailed under duress.”
    • “Armed militia chose Kangla Fort to revive Meitei indigenous tradition, culture, and religion.”

    Key Examples/References:

    • The six-point agenda and its potential impact on the vulnerable Kuki-Zomi-Hmar groups.
    • The involvement of Arambais in violent attacks against Kuki-Zomi-Hmar villages.
    • The parallels drawn with the radicalization of youth in Punjab under Bhindranwale.

    Key Facts/Data:

    • The Arambai Tenggol retains control over a significant amount of arms and ammunition.
    • The communal agenda may lead to increased tensions between communities.
    • The armed militia’s influence raises concerns about the democratic process in Manipur.

    Critical Analysis:

    • The legislators’ omission of ‘disarmament’ suggests a compromise with the armed militia’s agenda.
    • The article warns against the potential consequences of allowing an armed militia to influence state decisions.
    • The communal overtones in the agenda are criticized for undermining democratic and constitutional principles.

    Way Forward:

    • Emphasize the need for elected representatives to uphold constitutional duties.
    • Advocate for dialogue and peaceful resolution to address the concerns of different communities.
    • Strengthen mechanisms to prevent the influence of armed militias on democratic processes.

    In conclusion, the article highlights the concerning events in Manipur, where elected representatives endorse a communal agenda influenced by an armed militia. It urges a recommitment to constitutional duties, warns against radicalization, and suggests a path forward through dialogue and democratic principles.

  • Arun Prakash writes: Indian Navy in a threatening Red Sea

    Greece to join US-led coalition to protect Red Sea shipping from Houthis | Houthis News | Al Jazeera

    Central idea 

    The central idea focuses on the Houthi threat to Red Sea shipping, emphasizing the importance of navies and diplomatic efforts to maintain stability in the Indian Ocean. Historical trade warfare context and the need to address challenges like drone warfare underscore the urgency in safeguarding international trade routes. India’s proactive role and diplomatic leverage play a crucial role in ensuring regional stability.

    Key Highlights:

    • Houthi rebels, post the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, pose a threat to Red Sea merchant-shipping traffic.
    • Alfred Mahan’s emphasis on navies as a means to protect foreign trade and commerce for national prosperity.
    • Indian Ocean’s vital role in global economy with 1,00,000 annual merchantmen, carrying 80% of the world’s oil.
    • Indian Navy’s proactive role as a “preferred security partner” in maintaining good order at sea.

    Key Challenges:

    • Rising threat to Red Sea shipping by Houthi rebels affecting global trade.
    • Historical instances of trade warfare impacting security and prosperity.
    • Critical choke points in the Indian Ocean vulnerable to interdiction by states, pirates, and terrorists.

    Key Terms and Phrases:

    • Choke points: Narrow passages in the Indian Ocean constricting shipping traffic.
    • Tanker war: Strategy targeting merchant ships to impact trade, as seen in the Iran-Iraq conflict.
    • Flag state: State in which a ship is registered, exercising exclusive jurisdiction over vessels.

    For Djibouti, It's All About Location

    Key Quotes:

    • “The necessity of a navy… springs from the existence of peaceful shipping…”
    • “The Indian Navy’s self-assigned role of ‘preferred security partner’ in the region.”

    Anecdotes:

    • Eight-year-long Iran-Iraq conflict saw a “tanker war” impacting merchant ships in the Persian Gulf.
    • Houthi rebels launching attacks on US Navy units and merchant shipping in the Bab al Mandab Strait.

    Key Statements:

    • Indian Navy’s commendable alacrity in responding to emergent situations in the Red Sea.
    • US launching operation “Prosperity Guardian” to safeguard Red Sea shipping.

    Key Examples and References:

    • Germany targeting Allied merchant shipping in 20th-century global conflicts.
    • Houthi attacks in the Bab al Mandab Strait affecting merchant ships seeking safe passage.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Importance of maintaining good order at sea for India’s own interest and international commitment.
    • Challenges posed by ongoing Yemeni civil war affecting shipping in the Red Sea.
    • Complexity of the conflict involving Saudi Arabia-Iran proxy clash and multilateral dimensions.

    Way Forward:

    • India leveraging its good standing with Iran and Israel to urge moderation and restraint.
    • Addressing the challenges posed by drone warfare and evolving effective counter-measures.
    • Ensuring diplomatic efforts to prevent the west Asian conflagration from spreading to the Indian Ocean.

  • Why terrorist activity has shifted from Kashmir to Poonch-Rajouri

    Solved] Where is the Pir Panjal Range located?

    Central idea 

    The recent surge in terrorist activity in the Poonch-Rajouri sector challenges the Indian Army’s historical success in counter-terrorism operations. This shift is attributed to the path of least resistance as Kashmir becomes less conducive, prompting a need for a strategic reassessment and adaptation of deployment and operational strategies to address emerging challenges. Transparent investigations into civilian deaths and a balanced approach in public statements are crucial to maintaining public trust and stability in the region.

    Key Highlights:

    • Recent encounters in the Poonch-Rajouri sector challenge the Indian Army’s historical success in counter-terrorism operations.
    • Shift of terrorist activity to Poonch-Rajouri is due to the path of least resistance, with Kashmir facing strong counter-terrorism measures.
    • Dilution of local support, abrogation of Article 370, and focus on Pir Panjal (South) indicate a strategic shift in the region’s dynamics.
    • Questions arise about the redeployment of formations and potential dilution of optimum deployment in the sector.

    Key Challenges:

    • Losses for the Indian Army in recent encounters raise concerns about the effectiveness of current strategies and the need for potential adjustments.
    • Shift in terrorist activity to Poonch-Rajouri poses a challenge to the Army’s counter-terrorism efforts.
    • Allegations surrounding the deaths of three local civilians in suspicious circumstances require thorough investigations and pose a challenge to maintaining public trust.

    Key Terms/Phrases:

    • Poonch-Rajouri sector
    • Counter-terrorism operations
    • Proxy hybrid war
    • Counter-infiltration (CI) and counter-terrorism (CT) grid
    • Article 370
    • Pir Panjal (South)
    • Redeployment
    • Rashtriya Rifles troops

    Key Quotes:

    • “Terrorism is like water; it takes the path of least resistance.”
    • “The abrogation of Article 370 has also made Kashmir less conducive to separatist trends.”
    • “The Indian government’s demonstrated capability for retaliation when an undetermined threshold is crossed will keep Pakistan on tenterhooks.”

    Key Statements:

    • Recent encounters challenge the Indian Army’s historical success in counter-terrorism operations.
    • The strategic shift of terrorist activity to the Poonch-Rajouri sector necessitates a reassessment of deployment and operational strategies.

    Key Examples/References:

    • Shift in terrorist tactics and focus from Kashmir to the Poonch-Rajouri sector.
    • Allegations surrounding the deaths of three local civilians.

    Key Facts/Data:

    • Recent encounters in the Poonch-Rajouri sector resulted in more losses for the Army than terrorists.
    • Redeployment of troops from the Jammu sector since May 2020.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Losses in recent encounters raise questions about the effectiveness of the Army’s current strategies.
    • Shift in terrorist activity indicates the need for adaptability in response strategies.
    • Allegations surrounding civilian deaths require transparent investigations to maintain public trust.

    Way Forward:

    • Conduct a thorough review of identified weaknesses in convoy security, vehicle hardening, and reinforcement movements.
    • Adapt drills, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and minor tactics to address current challenges.
    • Ensure transparent investigations into civilian deaths, with suitable disciplinary action if mistakes are identified.
    • Conduct brigade-sized operations in Pir Panjal with drone support, reinforced by strong public outreach to address local sentiments.
    • Maintain a balanced approach in public statements to prevent speculation and unrest, and continue precautionary measures in the Kashmir Valley.