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Subject: Internal Security

  • INS Varsha Naval Base

    Why in the News?

    India is set to operationalise INS Varsha, a highly strategic naval base designed specifically to house nuclear-powered submarines, on the eastern coast near Rambilli in Andhra Pradesh by 2026.

    About INS Varsha

    • INS Varsha is being developed as a specialized base to house India’s growing fleet of nuclear-powered submarines, including both Nuclear-Powered Ballistic Missile Submarines (SSBNs) and Nuclear-Powered Attack Submarine (SSNs).
    • It will be situated near the coastal village of Rambilli, about 50 km south of Visakhapatnam, home to the Eastern Naval Command.
    • The naval bases lies on the confluence of Sarada and Varaha rivers.
    • The facility will have underground pens and tunnels to ensure stealthy operations for nuclear submarines.
    • This design will allow submarines to enter and exit the base undetected, maintaining their stealth, particularly important for SSBNs which carry nuclear missiles during long patrols.
    • The base will cover an area of 20 square kilometers and is designed to accommodate at least 10 nuclear submarines.
    • Like China’s nuclear submarine base at Hainan Island (in the South China Sea), INS Varsha will be situated in waters that allow submarines to operate without detection from satellite surveillance.

    Project Varsha

    ins varsha

    • INS Varsha is part of Project Varsha, a top-secret initiative aimed at bolstering India’s maritime deterrence capabilities by building a dedicated facility for its nuclear-powered submarines.
    • This project is crucial to countering the growing naval presence and strategic expansion of China in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
    • It will support the fleet of Arihant-class submarines, which are crucial for India’s sea-based nuclear deterrent

     

    [UPSC 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

     

  • CAPTCHA: a digital border between Humans and Bots

    Why in the News?

    This newscard is an excerpt from the original article published in The Hindu.

    What is CAPTCHA?

    • CAPTCHA stands for Completely Automated Public Turing test to tell Computers and Humans Apart.
    • It is a security measure used to differentiate humans from automated bots on websites.
    • It helps protect websites against spam and misuse by ensuring that the user performing actions is a human.
    • It was developed in the early 2000s by Luis von Ahn, Manuel Blum, Nicholas J. Hopper, and John Langford as a response to the proliferation of automated bots on the internet that created fake accounts, spammed websites, and stole data.
    • The first patent for CAPTCHA was filed in 2003.

    How Does CAPTCHA Work?

    • CAPTCHA presents tasks that are easy for humans to solve but hard for machines.
    • These tasks typically involve recognizing distorted text, images, or sounds that machines cannot interpret as reliably as humans.
    • It operates on the principle of the Turing test, designed by British mathematician Alan Turing in the 1950s.
      • This assesses a machine’s ability to exhibit human-like behaviour.
    • Over the years, CAPTCHA has evolved from simple text recognition to more complex tests:
    1. Image Recognition CAPTCHA: Users are asked to identify specific objects within images, such as cars, traffic lights, or storefronts.
    2. reCAPTCHA: Launched by Google in 2009, this system not only serves as a CAPTCHA but also helps digitize text from scanned documents. Users transcribe words that OCR software has been unable to recognize.
    3. Invisible reCAPTCHA: Introduced by Google in 2014, this version analyzes the user’s interaction with the website, such as mouse movements, to determine if they are human without needing them to complete a specific challenge.

    Limitations of CAPTCHA

    • Accessibility Issues: CAPTCHA can be challenging for people with disabilities, such as visual or hearing impairments.
    • User Inconvenience: The need to solve CAPTCHAs can be cumbersome, particularly on mobile devices, and may detract from user experience.
    • Advancing Bot Technology: As bots become more sophisticated with AI, they are increasingly capable of bypassing CAPTCHA systems, necessitating more complex solutions.
    [UPSC 2019] Consider the following statements: A digital signature is

    1. an electronic record that identifies the certifying authority issuing it

    2. used to serve as a proof of identity of an individual to access information or server on Internet.

    3. an electronic method of signing an electronic document and ensuring that the original content is unchanged

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • Exercise INDRA 2025

    Why in the News?

    The bilateral naval exercise INDRA 2025 between the Indian and Russian navies was held from 28 March to 02 April 2025.

    About Exercise INDRA

    • INDRA is a biennial joint military exercise that began in 2003.
    • Over time, INDRA transformed into a tri-service exercise involving Army, Navy, and Air Force, making it more comprehensive and multifaceted.
    • Recent Editions of INDRA:
      • 2021 (12th Edition): Held in Volgograd, Russia; Focused on counter-terrorism operations and enhancing operational synergy.
      • 2023 (13th Edition): Conducted in the Bay of Bengal, India; Involved naval forces from both countries, enhancing maritime cooperation and joint operations.
      • 2025 (14th Edition): It is being conducted in two phases: Harbour phase at Chennai and Sea phase in the Bay of Bengal.

    Strategic Importance 

    • The exercise reinforced jointmanship between the Indian and Russian forces, strengthening their ability to collaborate in maritime security operations.
    • It highlighted the shared commitment to upholding maritime order and promoting global peace and stability.
    • Best practices were exchanged, fostering a deeper understanding of each other’s operational doctrines and enhancing the capacity to respond effectively to contemporary maritime security challenges.

  • [pib] Exercise Tiger Triumph

    Why in the News?

    The 4th edition of Exercise Tiger Triumph, a bilateral tri-service Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise, will be held on the Eastern Seaboard of India, with activities taking place in Visakhapatnam and Kakinada.

    About Exercise Tiger Triumph

    • The exercise was first announced by then U.S. President Donald Trump during the Howdy Modi event in Houston on September 22, 2019.
    • The inaugural exercise took place from November 13 to 21, 2019.
    • It involved approximately 1,200 Indian personnel and 500 U.S. military members, with key participation from the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific.
      • Harbour Phase: Held in Visakhapatnam, including training visits, expert exchanges, and social interactions.
      • Sea Phase: Conducted in Kakinada, focusing on practical HADR operations like field hospital setups and evacuation drills.

    Subsequent Editions of Exercise Tiger Triumph:

    • 2022 Edition: Emphasized disaster relief coordination, with tabletop simulations to improve operational readiness.
    • 2024 Edition: Focused on refining standard operating procedures (SOPs) and included a battalion group from the Indian Army.

    Important Features:

    • Interoperability Enhancement: The exercise aims to improve the coordination between Indian and U.S. forces during disaster response situations, ensuring rapid deployment and effective collaboration.
    • Humanitarian Assistance Focus: The exercise simulates responses to natural disasters like super-cyclones, refining diplomatic, operational, and logistical efforts in such crises.
    • Strengthening Bilateral Ties: Joint drills and exchanges during the exercise serve to fortify the strategic partnership between India and the U.S., focusing on shared best practices and operational capabilities.
    [UPSC 2024] Which of the following statements about ‘Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023’ are correct?
    1. This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh.
    2. It commenced in Aundh (Pune).
    3. Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation.
    4. Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise.
    Select the answer using the code given below:
    (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 4 (c) 1 and 4 (d) 2, 3 and 4

     

  • [pib] Exercise INIOCHOS 25

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Air Force will participate in Exercise INIOCHOS-25 hosted by the Hellenic Air Force at Andravida Air Base, Greece.

    About Exercise INIOCHOS

    • INIOCHOS is a biennial multinational air exercise that provides air forces with a platform to enhance their operational readiness.
    • It is hosted by the Hellenic (Greek) Air Force and brings together military aviation units from various countries, promoting international cooperation.
    • It was first conducted in the late 1980s, as a small-scale tactical level exercise.
    • Objective: To allow air forces to practice Combined Air Operations and share tactical knowledge through realistic combat scenarios.

    Key Features of Exercise INIOCHOS:

    • It integrates air and surface assets from fifteen countries, promoting multinational cooperation in air warfare.
    • It will simulate modern-day air warfare challenges, providing a real-world training environment for participating air forces.
    • It will be placed on planning and executing Combined Air operations, refining tactics in complex air warfare scenarios.

    Strategic Importance for India:

    • India’s participation in INIOCHOS-25 underlines its commitment to global defence cooperation and showcases its ability to work seamlessly in joint operations.
    • The exercise will reinforce India’s strategic partnerships with other nations and further enhance its readiness for joint operations in complex and dynamic air warfare environments.

  • Tri-services Exercise Prachand Prahaar

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Army conducted a Tri-Service integrated multi-domain warfare exercise, called ‘Prachand Prahaar’, in the high-altitude terrain of Arunachal Pradesh.

    About Exercise Prachand Prahaar

    • It is a tri-service integrated multi-domain warfare exercise involving the Army, Indian Air Force (IAF), and Indian Navy.
    • It is conducted in the high-altitude terrain of Arunachal Pradesh, near the Line of Actual Control (LAC), which spans 3,488 km.
    • The exercise was carried out under the aegis of the Eastern Army Command.
    • The primary objective was to validate a fully integrated approach to surveillance, command and control, and precision firepower across all three services.
    • The exercise aimed at simulating future warfare scenarios with a synergised combat drill.

    Key Components and Execution:

    • The exercise began with the deployment of advanced surveillance resources from all three services, which included:
      • Long-range surveillance aircraft from the IAF.
      • Maritime domain awareness aircraft from the Indian Navy.
      • Helicopters and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).
      • Space-based resources and the Indian Army’s elite special forces.
    • These resources created seamless domain awareness, which allowed for the identification of simulated targets.

    Related Previous Exercises:

    • The Prachand Prahaar exercise builds upon the momentum of Exercise Poorvi Prahar, which was held in November 2024.
    • The focus of Poorvi Prahar was on the integrated application of aviation assets.

  • DRDO tests Vertically Launched Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (VLSRSAM)

    Why in the News?

    The DRDO has successfully tested the Vertically- Launched Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (VLSRSAM) for the Indian Navy.

    About VLSRSAM

    • The VLSRSAM is a ship-borne surface-to-air missile designed to counter various aerial threats, particularly at short ranges.
    • The missile is intended for neutralizing airborne threats at close ranges, including aircraft, helicopters, drones, and other incoming missiles, which are critical for naval defence operations.
    • The VLSRSAM weighs around 170 kg and is powered by a solid propellant.
    • The missile can reach a maximum speed of Mach 4.5.
    • The missile can reach altitudes of 16 km and has a range sufficient to engage high-speed targets.
    • Guidance System:
      • Mid-course phase: The missile uses a fibre-optic gyroscope-based inertial guidance system, ensuring stable flight towards the target.
      • Terminal phase: It switches to active radar homing for precise target acquisition and guidance, ensuring that it can engage targets with high accuracy even at low altitudes.

    Strategic Significance

    • With advanced guidance systems, the VLSRSAM demonstrates agility and precision in targeting, ensuring it is highly effective even against fast-moving, low-flying aerial threats.
    • The missile has been tested for reliability and accuracy, successfully engaging targets at close range and low altitudes.
    • It is seen as a force multiplier for the Indian Navy, significantly enhancing its air defence capabilities, particularly in protecting high-value assets in the maritime domain.
    [UPSC 2018] What is “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)”, sometimes seen in the news ?

    (a) An Israeli radar system

    (b) India’s indigenous anti-missile programme

    (c) An American anti-missile system

    (d) A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea

     

  • Exercise ‘AIKEYME’

    Why in the News?

    India is set to strengthen its military and maritime ties with African nations through two significant initiatives—Exercise Aikeyme (Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement) and IOS Sagar (Indian Ocean Ship Sagar).

    About Exercise Aikeyme 

    • Aikeyme is India’s first-ever multilateral naval exercise with 10 African nations, aimed at improving maritime cooperation, enhancing maritime security, and addressing regional threats.
    • It will be held off Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania, from April 13 to 18, 2025.
    • The nations taking part include Tanzania (co-host), Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, and South Africa.
    • It is aimed at increasing interoperability between the Indian Navy and African navies, with a focus on combating common threats like piracy and drug trafficking.
    • The goal is to make this exercise a biennial event and expand participation in future editions to include West African nations.
    • Key Features:
      • Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) drills.
      • Arms firing exercises.
      • Helicopter operations.
      • Search and rescue missions.
      • Table-top and command post exercises on anti-piracy operations and information-sharing.

    IOS Sagar (Indian Ocean Ship) Initiative

    • The IOS Sagar initiative focuses on deepening India’s maritime cooperation with IOR countries.
    • It involves the deployment of the Indian Navy’s INS Sunayna, which will be manned by a combined crew of Indian sailors and 44 personnel from nine African countries.
    • The initiative will take place from April 5 to May 8, 2025.
    • Key Participating Countries: Sri Lanka, Maldives, Mauritius, Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Seychelles, and South Africa.
    • Activities:
      • The ship will undertake port calls at Dar-es-Salaam, Nacala, Port Louis, Port Victoria, and Male.
      • The ship will also engage in joint surveillance of the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of Tanzania, Mozambique, Mauritius, and Seychelles.
      • The personnel will undergo two-week training capsules at Kochi, including sea training, watchkeeping, and other professional naval activities.

  • Not the only path: On acting against the Maoists

    Why in the News?

    On March 20, 2025, security forces carried out two missions in Bastar, Chhattisgarh, and killed 30 Maoist people. This made the total number of Maoists killed this year more than 100.

    What were the key reasons behind the decline of the Maoist insurgency in India?

    • Strong Counter-Insurgency Operations: Security forces, including CRPF’s elite COBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action) unit and state police forces, have conducted targeted operations against Maoist strongholds. Example: Operation Prahar in Chhattisgarh led to the elimination of top Maoist leaders and disrupted their logistical networks.
    • Improved Governance and Development Initiatives: Infrastructure projects like roads, electrification, and mobile connectivity have reduced Maoist influence by increasing state presence. Example: The Aspirational Districts Programme has focused on healthcare, education, and employment in Maoist-affected regions.
    • Erosion of Support Base: Maoists have lost support due to their violent tactics, including forced recruitment, extortion, and attacks on civilians. Example: The killing of Madvi Hidma, a local tribal leader, by Maoists in Bastar led to mass protests by villagers against them.
    • Surrender and Rehabilitation Policies: Government schemes like the ‘Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy’ offer financial aid, skill training, and housing to former Maoists. Example: Over 600 Maoists surrendered in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh after the government provided rehabilitation and employment opportunities.
    • Internal Divisions and Leadership Crisis: The Maoist movement has suffered from ideological splits, a lack of new leadership, and desertions. Example: The death of Kishenji (Maoist leader) in 2011 and the arrest of several senior cadres have weakened organizational unity.

    Why is a purely militaristic approach insufficient in tackling the Maoist insurgency?

    • Deep-Rooted Socio-Economic Issues Drive Insurgency: Maoism thrives in areas with poverty, land alienation, and lack of governance. Military force alone does not address the core grievances of tribal communities. Example: The displacement of tribals due to mining projects in Dantewada, Chhattisgarh, has fueled resentment, making them vulnerable to Maoist influence.
    • Risk of Civilian Casualties and Alienation: Excessive military action can lead to civilian deaths, human rights violations, and loss of trust in the state, pushing locals towards Maoists instead of the government. Example: The Salwa Judum campaign (2005-2011), a state-backed militia to counter Maoists, led to severe human rights abuses, ultimately worsening the conflict.
    • Failure to Provide a Long-Term Solution: Military operations can weaken Maoists but do not offer a sustainable path for peace and rehabilitation. A mix of governance, dialogue, and development is needed. Example: The Nepali Maoists transitioned into mainstream politics through a negotiated peace process, showing that engagement can be a more effective long-term strategy.

     

    Where are the remaining strongholds of Maoist influence in India?

    • Southern Chhattisgarh (Bastar Region): Dense forests, difficult terrain, and historical neglect in governance make it a Maoist stronghold. Example: Dantewada, Sukma, and Bijapur districts frequently witness Maoist ambushes on security forces.
    • Border Regions of Jharkhand, Odisha, and Telangana: The tri-junction of these states provides a strategic corridor for Maoist movement and arms supply. Example: Latehar (Jharkhand), Malkangiri (Odisha), and Bhadradri-Kothagudem (Telangana) remain active insurgent zones.
    • Gadchiroli District (Maharashtra): Proximity to Chhattisgarh’s Maoist belt and forested terrain offer a safe haven for Maoist cadres. Example: The Jambhulkheda encounter  saw security forces eliminate top Maoist leaders in this region.

    Who are the primary stakeholders in resolving the Maoist issue peacefully?

    • Government (Union and State Governments): Responsible for policy-making, law enforcement, and development initiatives in affected regions. Example: The Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy offers incentives for Maoists to reintegrate into society.
    • Security Forces (Police, Paramilitary, and Intelligence Agencies): Play a crucial role in counterinsurgency operations and maintaining law and order. Example: The Greyhounds (Telangana), CoBRA (CRPF), and District Reserve Guard (Chhattisgarh) specialise in anti-Maoist operations.
    • Tribal Communities and Local Populations: Often caught in the crossfire, they need protection, development, and inclusion in governance. Example: The PESA Act (1996) empowers tribal self-governance to address their grievances.
    • Civil Society and NGOs: Mediate peace talks, advocate for human rights, and support socio-economic development. Example: Swami Agnivesh’s peace efforts attempted negotiations between Maoists and the government.
    • Former Maoists and Rehabilitation Advocates: It can influence insurgents to surrender and integrate into mainstream society. Example: Former Maoist leader Gopanna Markam, who surrendered and helped bring others into the fold.

    How can lessons from international experiences, such as FARC in Colombia or Nepali Maoists? (Way forward)

    • Negotiation and Political Integration: Offering insurgents a political pathway can encourage them to abandon violence. Example: Nepali Maoists transitioned from armed struggle to mainstream politics through the 2006 Comprehensive Peace Agreement, leading to their participation in democratic governance.
    • Rehabilitation and Reintegration Programs: Providing economic and social reintegration opportunities reduces the chances of re-radicalization. Example: Colombia’s peace deal with FARC (2016) included land reforms, financial aid, and skill development programs for former rebels.
    • Addressing Root Causes through Development: Long-term peace requires addressing socio-economic grievances that fuel insurgencies. Example: Colombia’s rural development programs aimed to improve infrastructure, education, and healthcare in former conflict zones to prevent a resurgence of violence.

    Mains PYQ:

    Question: “Naxalism is a social, economic and developmental issue manifesting as a violent internal security threat. In this context, discuss the emerging issues and suggest a multilayered strategy to tackle the menace of Naxalism.” (2022)

    Reason: This question directly addresses Naxalism (Maoist insurgency) as more than just a security problem, aligning with this article. It also asks for a multilayered strategy, hinting at the need for more than just security measures, such as addressing social and economic issues.

  • Exercise Varuna

    Why in the News?

    India and France recently conducted the 23rd edition of Exercise Varuna, a key bilateral naval exercise aimed at enhancing interoperability and combat readiness between the two countries’ naval forces.

    About Exercise Varuna

    • Exercise Varuna is a bilateral naval exercise between India and France.
      • It was first initiated in 1993 and officially named Varuna in 2001.
    • The exercise focuses on enhancing combat readiness, improving interoperability, and deepening maritime security cooperation between the two nations.
    • It spans multiple domains, including air, surface, and sub-surface operations, with a strong emphasis on anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and air combat drills.
    • Key Highlights:
      • The 2025 edition took place from March 19-22 off the coast of Goa, with participants such as INS Vikrant (India) and Charles de Gaulle (France).
      • This year’s exercises included aircraft carrier operations, ASW drills, and joint surface warfare operations.
      • Rafale-M (French Navy) and MiG-29K (Indian Navy) fighters participated in advanced air defence and mock air-to-air combat scenarios. 
      • Indian Scorpene-class submarines acted as aggressors, while French and Indian frigates protected high-value assets, including the French oiler Jacques Chevallier.
      • These drills enhanced underwater domain awareness and improved ASW tactics.

    Other Notable India-France Military Exercises:

    • FRINJEX: A joint exercise between the Indian and French armies focused on ground operations.
    • GARUDA: A bilateral air exercise between the Indian and French air forces, first held in 2003.
    • SHAKTI: A biennial military exercise between India and France, focusing on counter-terrorism operations.
    • La Pérouse: A multilateral maritime exercise led by the French Navy, with India participating for the first time in 2021.

     

    [UPSC 2024] Which of the following statements about ‘Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023’ are correct?

    1. This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh.

    2. It commenced in Aundh (Pune).

    3. Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation.

    4. Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise.

    Select the answer using the code given below:

    (a)  1, 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 4 (c) 1 and 4 (d)  2, 3 and 4