Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched Bharatpol, a groundbreaking portal developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
What is Bharatpol?
Bharatpol is a unified digital platform designed to enhance collaboration between Indian law enforcement agencies and Interpol, which connects police forces across 195 member countries.
It simplifies international police cooperation, replacing outdated modes of communication like letters and faxes with real-time digital tools.
Goal: Equip Indian law enforcement agencies with modern technology and techniques to track fugitives and address global crime challenges.
Why was it developed?
Rising transnational crimes necessitate real-time international assistance.
Facilitates faster investigations into crimes such as cybercrime, drug trafficking, organized crime, and online radicalization.
Features of Bharatpol:
Integrates CBI’s role as Interpol’s National Central Bureau (NCB-New Delhi)
Simplified Request Mechanism
Rapid Information Dissemination
Utilization of Interpol Notices
Capacity Building and Training
Modules of Bharatpol:
Connect: Acts as a digital extension of Interpol’s NCB-New Delhi, ensuring seamless and secure communication between Indian agencies and Interpol.
INTERPOL Notices: Simplifies the process of issuing and managing Interpol Notices, ensuring swift action on international alerts.
References: Streamlines the use of global criminal data, enabling faster investigations.
Broadcast: Allows real-time sharing of requests and updates from Interpol’s 195 member countries.
Resources: Facilitates the exchange of documents, training materials, and capacity-building resources.
How does Bharatpol enhance Interpol’s functionality?
Bharatpol extends Interpol’s reach in India, connecting local police to global law enforcement networks.
It allows instant transmission of critical information, enhancing the efficiency of investigations and international cooperation.
It simplifies the process for Indian agencies to access Interpol’s 19 databases on crimes, criminals, and stolen assets.
It ensures a structured approach to tracking fugitives and resolving international cases.
Non-operational patrolling boats, insufficient funds for training, and manpower shortages are among the challenges highlighted by 13 coastal states and Union Territories during a review of the Coastal Security Scheme (CSS) phases I and II.
What is the Coastal Security Scheme?
CSS was launched to strengthen security across India’s 7,516.6 km coastline, including 1,382 offshore islands, in order to prevent unauthorized entry, smuggling, and infiltration.
It is overseen by the Department of Border Management, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), in collaboration with coastal States/UTs and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).
Core Objective: Bolster coastal security by enhancing infrastructure, resources, and coordination among central and state agencies, ensuring effective maritime surveillance and prompt emergency response.
Implementation Phases
Phase I (2005–2011)
Budget: ₹646 crore
Established 73 coastal police stations, 97 check-posts, 58 outposts, 30 barracks, 204 interceptor boats, 153 jeeps, and 312 motorcycles.
The Indian Army contingent has departed for Nepal to participate in the 18th edition of the Battalion-Level Joint Military Exercise SURYA KIRAN.
About the Exercise Surya Kiran
Exercise Surya Kiran is a bilateral joint military exercise conducted annually between India and Nepal since 2011.
The 18th edition is being held in Saljhandi, Nepal, from 31st December 2024 to 13th January 2025.
It alternates between India and Nepal as the host nation.
The Indian Army contingent, consisting of 334 personnel, is led by a battalion from the 11th Gorkha Rifles.
The Nepal Army contingent is represented by the Srijung Battalion.
The exercise aims to enhance interoperability in areas like jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountainous terrains, and humanitarian assistance under the United Nations Charter.
Features and Significance
Strengthens combat readiness in jungle warfare and counter-terrorism.
Facilitates the exchange of ideas, experiences, and best practices between the armies of both nations.
Reinforces the strong cultural and historical ties shared by India and Nepal.
Prepares both nations to address shared security challenges effectively.
PYQ:
[2024] Which of the following statements about the Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023 is/ are correct?
This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh.
It commenced in Aundh (Pune).
Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation.
Q) What are the maritime security challenges in India? Discuss the organisational, technical and procedural initiatives taken to improve maritime security. (UPSC CSE 2022)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on topics like ‘Indo-Pacific’ (2020) and ‘Maritime Security’ (2022).
Since late 2023, the Indian Navy has responded to numerous piracy incidents in the Indian Ocean, solidifying its role as a “first responder” in regional crises (Red Sea). These operations showcase India’s capabilities and reinforce its position as a preferred security partner in the region.
Today’s Editorial focuses on Maritime security initiatives taken by the government and enhancement opportunities. This content can be used for presenting the main answer while talking on ‘Indo-Pacific issues’ and ‘security challenges in the Indian Ocean’.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
In 2024, the Indian Navy’s Operation ‘Sankalp’ expanded its maritime security efforts from the Strait of Hormuz to the Red Sea, enhancing its role as a key security partner by addressing piracy, hijacking, and drone threats while tackling the Hauthis issue.
Additionally, the year saw notable advancements in the Navy’s operational preparedness, particularly in undersea warfare.
What is Operation ‘Sankalp’?
• The Indian Navy launched Operation ‘Sankalp’ on June 19, 2019, to ensure the safety of Indian ships in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. • The operation was launched in response to rising tensions in the Gulf of Oman, where two oil tankers were attacked. The Indian Navy deploys ships and aircraft to the area to monitor and protect Indian-flagged vessels • The operation has provided safe passage for an average of 16 Indian-flagged ships daily. The operation is coordinated by the Indian Ministries of Defence, External Affairs, Shipping, Petroleum and Natural Gas, and the Directorate General of Shipping.
What are the current advancements in India’s submarine capabilities?
INS Arighaat: India’s second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, commissioned in August 2024, enhances the country’s nuclear triad by providing a credible deterrence against regional threats, particularly from China, with its capability to launch K-4 missiles over 3,500 kilometres.
Equipped with advanced sonar and propulsion systems, INS Arighaat significantly strengthens India’s maritime strike capabilities.
Project-77 (P-77): It is an Indian Navy acquisition program to procure nuclear-powered attack submarines.
The Cabinet Committee on Security recently cleared the long-pending Project-77 (P-77), giving its final approval to construct two nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) at a cost of ₹40,000 crore. The delivery of the first SSN is scheduled for 2036-37.
What is the relevance of Conventional Submarines?
Ongoing Importance: Despite the advancements in nuclear submarines, conventional submarines remain essential for various undersea missions that do not require nuclear capabilities.
Project-75: India is set to commission INS Vaghsheer (the 6th Scorpene submarine), as part of its collaboration with France, with plans to order three additional boats to replace older decommissioned ones.
Advancements in Technology:
• Air Independent Propulsion (AIP): The effectiveness of conventional submarines has improved due to AIP technology, prompting Project 75(I) to seek AIP-enabled boats from contenders like Spain and Germany. • Indigenous Content: Future Scorpene boats are expected to feature 60% indigenous content, while Project 75(I) aims for at least 45% in the first boat, increasing to 60% in subsequent units. • Development of Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs): India has approved the construction of 100-tonne UUVs at a cost of ₹2,500 crore, enhancing undersea capabilities as a cost-effective strategic option. This initiative reflects India’s focus on niche technologies to address complex maritime threats effectively.Indigenous
What are the Hurdles in Enhancing Undersea Capabilities?
Strategic Importance: The Indian government’s focus on enhancing the Navy’s undersea capabilities alongside surface and aviation elements aims to ensure maritime stability and security, contributing to a balanced blue water force.
Budgetary Challenges: Addressing long-standing budgetary issues is essential to align planned acquisitions and modernization efforts, as well as to mitigate excessive delays in project timelines.
Way Forward:
Need for Sustained Funding: Continuous financial support for long-term projects, along with streamlined processes for defining requirements and evaluating tenders, is crucial for meeting the Navy’s strategic and operational needs.
Opportunities for Collaboration: Strengthening partnerships with strategic allies and friendly maritime nations can enhance India’s maritime capabilities, support its vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR), and promote a free and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
The Centre has introduced the Telecommunications (Lawful Interception of Messages) Rules, 2024, replacing Rule 419A of the Indian Telegraph Rules, 1951, allowing certain agencies to intercept phone messages under specific conditions.
About the Indian Telegraph Rules, 1951
The Indian Telegraph Rules, 1951 are a set of regulations that govern the establishment, maintenance, and operation of telecommunication services in India.
These rules were framed under the provisions of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, which is a key legislation that grants the government authority to regulate telecommunication networks in India.
The rules cover various aspects of telecommunication, such as:
The process for obtaining telecommunication licenses.
The rights and obligations of telecommunication service providers.
The use of telecommunication networks for government purposes.
Provisions for the lawful interception and monitoring of communication for security, investigation, and public interest reasons (Rule 419A).
What do the new Telecommunications (Procedures and Safeguards for Lawful Interception of Messages) Rules, 2024 state?
Authorization for interception:
The Union Home Secretary and the Secretary to the State government in charge of the Home Department can authorize interception orders.
An officer not below the rank of Joint Secretary may issue interception orders in unavoidable circumstances (the circumstances are not specified).
Remote areas/operational reasons:
In remote areas, or for operational reasons, the head or second senior-most officer of the authorized agency (at central and state levels) can issue orders.
These orders must be confirmed by the competent authority within seven days.
If not confirmed, the interception ceases and the data cannot be used for any purpose, including court evidence.
Destruction of records:
Interception records must be destroyed every six months by the authorized agency and review committee, unless required for functional purposes or court directions.
Will it override Rule 419A of the Indian Telegraph Rules, 1951?
Yes, Rule 419A is replaced with these new rules, introducing changes in the conditions and procedures for interception.
Previously, interception was allowed only in emergent cases.
The new rules broaden this to include situations where it is not feasible to obtain prior orders in remote areas or due to operational reasons.
Under Rule 419A, there was no limit to the number of IGP-rank officers at the State level who could be authorized for interception.
The new rules allow only the head and second senior-most officer of the authorized agency at the state level to issue orders.
If the order is not confirmed within seven days, any intercepted messages cannot be used for any purposes, including court evidence.
PYQ:
[2021] ‘Right to Privacy’ is protected under which Article of the Constitution of India?
INS Tushil, a multi-role stealth guided missile frigate, is set to be commissioned by the Indian Navy at Kaliningrad, Russia.
AboutINS Tushil:
Details
INS Tushil is a multi-role stealth guided missile frigate, part of the Krivak III class (Project 1135.6).
It is the seventh in the series of Krivak III frigates, following the Talwar-class ships (three built at Baltiysky Shipyard in St. Petersburg) and the Teg-class ships (three built at Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad).
Development of INS Tushil:
Built at Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia.
Contract signed in Oct 2016 between Indian Navy, JSC Rosoboronexport, and Government of India.
Indian team of specialists from the Warship Overseeing Team monitored the construction.
Extensive trials, including Factory Sea Trials, State Committee Trials, and Delivery Acceptance Trials, were conducted in 2024.
Special Features
Speed of over 30 knots
Stealth design with advanced radar-absorbing features.
Equipped with guided missiles, advanced weapon systems, and radars.
Enhanced combat capabilities with a focus on anti-surface and anti-air warfare.
Helicopter deck for operations.
Significance
Boosts India’s naval capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Part of an ongoing effort to modernize the fleet with advanced technologies.
Strengthens India-Russia defence ties.
Will be key in maritime security and regional defense, especially in contested waters.
Over 1.76 crore school students participated in Project Veer Gatha 4.0, sharing creative tributes to the bravery and sacrifice of Armed Forces personnel.
About Project Veer Gatha:
Details
About
• Launched in 2021 to honor the acts of bravery and selfless sacrifice of Gallantry Awardees.
• 1.76 crore students from 36 states and UTs participated.
• Conducted annually since its inception, with increasing participation:
• First Edition (2021): 8 lakh students, Second Edition (2022): 19.5 lakh students, Third Edition (2023): 1.36 crore students.
Aims and Objectives
• Instill patriotism and national pride among students.
• Spread awareness about the heroic contributions of Gallantry Awardees.
• Foster creativity through various forms of artistic expression.
• Promote national unity and pride across India’s diverse school system.
• Enhance knowledge about unsung heroes and military heritage.
Features of the Program
• Creative content submissions, including poems, paintings, essays, and videos.
• 100 national-level winners annually, with a ₹10,000 cash prize and recognition by the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Defence.
• District and state awards for outstanding students.
• Educational outreach programs by the Ministry of Defence to engage students.
• Digital submission via the MyGov portal, making the process inclusive and easy for wide participation.
• Focus on both famous Gallantry Awardees and unsung heroes.
PYQ:
[2024] Operations undertaken by the Army towards upliftment of the local population in remote areas to include addressing of their basic needs is called:
India and Japan have signed a Memorandum of Implementation (MoI) for the co-development and co-production of the UNICORN (Unified Complex Radio Antenna) mast for Indian Naval warships.
What is the UNICORN Mast?
The UNICORN Mast is an advanced antenna system designed to enhance the stealth and operational capabilities of naval warships.
It was developed through collaboration between three Japanese companies: NEC Corporation, Sampa Kogyo K.K., and The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd.
It will be co-developed in India by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).
It consolidates multiple antennas, typically attached separately to a mast, into a single radar dome (radome).
By reducing the cross-sectional visibility of the mast, UNICORN significantly minimizes the electronic signatures of warships, making them harder to detect.
This technology is already in use on Mogami-class frigates in the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force.
Objectives behind the Mission:
Enhance Naval Stealth: Improve stealth by reducing electronic and radar signatures.
The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has initiated Operation Sagar Manthan to dismantle the extensive drug empire of Haji Salim, also known as the “Lord of Drugs”.
AboutOperation Sagar Manthan
Details
About the Operation
• An initiative by Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) to dismantle the drug trafficking network led by Haji Salim.
• Launched under the direction of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
• A comprehensive crackdown on Salim’s syndicate linked to narco-terrorism.
Aims and Objectives
• Break supply lines, seize narcotics, and arrest operatives.
• Disrupt funding for cross-border terrorism.
• Strengthen surveillance in remote coastal areas used by the syndicate.
• Counter aid from entities like Pakistan’s ISI and disrupt links with figures like Dawood Ibrahim.
Goals
• Reduce cartel influence in the Indian Ocean region.
• Mitigate narco-terrorism to enhance regional security.
• Improve maritime security to prevent future networks.
Why does the government crack down on drug trafficking?
Public Health Protection: Drug trafficking fuels addiction, mental health issues, and diseases, straining healthcare systems and undermining societal well-being.
National Security and Social Stability: It funds organized crime, terrorism, and violence, destabilizing communities, weakening governance, and hindering law and order.
PYQ:
[2023] Explain how narco-terrorism has emerged as a serious threat across the country. Suggest suitable measures to counter narco-terrorism.
