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Subject: Internal Security

  • Induction of INS Tamal

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Navy is set to commission INS Tamal, a stealth multi-role frigate and the last warship commissioned outside India, on July 1, 2025, at Kaliningrad, Russia.

    About INS Tamal:

    • Overview: It is the 8th Krivak-class and 2nd Tushil-class stealth frigate from Russia.
    • Last to be imported: Final Indian Navy ship to be commissioned abroad, under the 2016 India-Russia IGA.
    • Built at Yantar Shipyard, Kaliningrad; sister ship INS Tushil was commissioned in Dec 2024; designed by Severnoye Bureau; overseen by the Indian Navy.
    • Etymology: Name inspired by a mythical sword of Indra; mascot blends Jambavant and Eurasian Brown Bear.
    • Motto: “Sarvada Sarvatra Vijaya” – Victorious Always, Everytime.

    Important Features:

    • Indigenous components: It uses Indian-made parts in 26% of its systems, including those from companies like BEL and Tata.
    • Stealth capacity: It has radar, sonar, and electronic systems to detect enemy ships and submarines.
    • Patrol features: It can carry helicopters that help in sea patrol and rescue missions.
    • Size: It is 125 metres long, weighs about 3,900 tonnes, and can move very fast, over 30 knots.
    • Digital warfare: It has modern control systems that allow all its weapons and sensors to work together.
    [UPSC 2016] Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently?

    Options: (a) Amphibious warfare ship (b) Nuclear-powered submarine (c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel (d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier

     

  • Navy inducts INS Arnala

    Why in the News?

    INS Arnala, the first Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), was officially commissioned into the Eastern Naval Command at the Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam.

    About INS Arnala:

    • What is it: INS Arnala is the first Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) commissioned into the Eastern Naval Command on June 18, 2025, at Visakhapatnam.
    • Behind the name: It is named after the historic Arnala Fort near Vasai, Maharashtra.
    • Development: The vessel was designed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) and built in partnership with L&T Shipbuilders under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
    • Project: It marks the beginning of the induction of 16 ASW-SWC class ships, aimed at enhancing India’s shallow water anti-submarine capabilities.

    Key Features:

    • Propulsion: 77.6 metres long; first Indian Navy warship powered by a Diesel Engine-Waterjet combination.
    • Indigenous Content: Over 80% indigenous systems, with contributions from BEL, L&T, Mahindra Defence, and over 55 MSMEs.
    • Arsenal: Equipped with a single centreline rocket launcher, lightweight torpedoes, anti-torpedo decoys, and mine-laying systems.
    • Sensor Suite: Incorporates Hull-Mounted Sonar (Abhay), Low-Frequency Variable Depth Sonar (LFVDS), and Underwater Acoustic Communication System (UWACS).
    • Multi-role Capability: Designed for ASW operations, Search and Rescue (SAR), low-intensity maritime operations, and subsurface surveillance in shallow coastal waters.

    Significance:

    • Strategic Defence Upgrade: Replaces ageing Abhay-class corvettes and significantly strengthens India’s anti-submarine warfare posture.
    • Enhanced Coastal Security: Ideal for detecting midget submarines and Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) in waters less than 30 metres deep, where larger warships struggle to operate.
    • Make-in-India Milestone: Demonstrates India’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing and contributes to the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
    [UPSC 2016] Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently?

    Options: (a) Amphibious warfare ship (b) Nuclear-powered submarine (c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel* (d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier

     

  • Exercise KHAAN QUEST

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Army has deployed it’s contingent to participate in Exercise KHAAN QUEST 2025, a major multinational peacekeeping exercise being held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.

    Concurrently, India is also set to conduct Exercise SHAKTI 2025 with France.

    About Exercise KHAAN QUEST, 2025:

    • Overview: It is a multinational peacekeeping military exercise being held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from June 14 to 28, 2025.
    • Origins: The exercise was initiated in 2003 as a bilateral drill between the United States and Mongolian Armed Forces and became a multinational event in 2006.
    • Indian Participation: India has sent a 40-member contingent, primarily from the Kumaon Regiment, along with personnel from other arms and services, including one woman officer and two women soldiers.
    • Focus: The exercise trains troops for Peacekeeping Missions under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, which deals with action regarding threats to peace and acts of aggression.
    • Key Training Drills: Participating forces will engage in checkpoint establishment, cordon and search operations, civilian evacuation from conflict zones, counter-IED tactics, and combat casualty care.
    • Objectives: The main goal is to build interoperability, promote joint planning, and strengthen tactical coordination among different participating nations.

    About Exercise SHAKTI, 2025:

    • Overview: It is a bilateral military drill between India and France, scheduled to take place at La Cavalerie, France, from June 18 to July 1, 2025.
    • Exercise Series: This marks the 8th edition of the biennial joint exercise, reflecting a strong and ongoing defence partnership between the two nations.
    • Objectives: The drill focuses on enhancing the joint capability to conduct multi-domain operations, especially in sub-conventional warfare scenarios.
    • Core Training Areas: It includes sessions on tactical coordination, joint operational planning, and counter-terrorism techniques.
    • Goals: To deepen military cooperation, foster mutual trust, and build interoperability and camaraderie between the Indian and French armed forces.

     

    [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

     

  • 17th Edition of Exercise Nomadic Elephant

    Why in the News?

    The 17th edition of the India–Mongolia Joint Military Exercise NOMADIC ELEPHANT is being held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from May 31 to June 13, 2025.

    About Exercise NOMADIC ELEPHANT:

    • About: It is a bilateral military exercise between the Indian Army and the Mongolian Armed Forces.
    • Launch Year: It was first conducted in 2004 in Mongolia, followed by the second edition in 2005 in Vairengte, Mizoram.
    • Frequency and Hosting: The exercise is held annually, with India and Mongolia alternating as hosts.
    • Recent Editions: The 15th edition was conducted in Ulaanbaatar in July 2023, and the 16th edition was held at Umroi, Meghalaya in July 2024.

    Objectives and Focus:

    • Interoperability: The main goal is to improve joint operational coordination between the two-armed forces.
    • Terrain Focus: It trains troops for task force operations in semi-urban and mountainous regions under a UN peacekeeping mandate.
    • Counter-Terrorism Training: The exercise enhances capabilities in counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations.
    • Regional Cooperation: It helps build mutual trust, encourages regional peace, and supports strategic cooperation.
    [UPSC 2008] ‘Hand-in-Hand 2007’, a joint anti-terrorism military training was held by the officers of the Indian Army and officers of the Army of which one of the following countries?

    Options: (a) China (b) Japan (c) Russia (d) USA*

     

  • Arms deals: India moves away from Russia; Pakistan from the U.S

    Why in the News?

    Recently, India’s Operation Sindoor has put the spotlight on the evolving nature of India and Pakistan’s defence procurement strategies.

    What is the situation of India’s defence import pattern?

    • Russia’s share in Indian defence imports has decreased from 96.5% in the 1990s to 75% in the 2020s.
    • India now imports over 9% from France, 5.5% from the UK, nearly 5% from Israel, and 3% from the US. Over 55% of India’s air-power weapons in the 2020s have come from France, the UK, and Israel, indicating greater reliance on Western technology in a critical combat domain.

    Why is India moving away from Russia?

    • Strategic Diversification: To avoid overdependence on a single supplier, India is diversifying defence partnerships. Eg: India’s growing defence ties with France (e.g., Rafale jets) and the U.S. (e.g., Apache helicopters, Predator drones).
    • Technological Advancement and Reliability: Western nations and Israel offer more advanced, precise, and reliable weapon systems. Eg: Israeli-origin SkyStriker drone used in Operation Sindoor reflects a shift toward high-tech partners.
    • Geopolitical and Logistical Concerns: Sanctions on Russia post-Ukraine war have raised concerns about timely deliveries and spare parts. Eg: India faces delays in Russian S-400 missile system deliveries due to global sanctions and supply chain disruptions.

    What types of foreign weapons did India and Pakistan use during Operation Sindoor?

    • India’s Use of Israeli and Russian Weapons: India deployed Israeli-origin weapons like the SkyStriker drone and Russian-made systems such as the Pechoraand OSA-AK missiles. Eg: The SkyStriker was used for precision strikes, while Pechora missiles were used for air defence.
    • Pakistan’s Use of Chinese and Turkish Systems: Pakistan used Chinese-origin PL-15 missiles and Turkish-origin Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Eg: PL-15, a long-range air-to-air missile, reflects Pakistan’s military dependence on China.

    Why is China now the dominant arms supplier for Pakistan?

    • Strategic Partnership and Regional Alignment: China and Pakistan share a strong geopolitical alliance, rooted in regional rivalry with India. Eg: The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has strengthened military and economic ties.
    • Decline of U.S. Defence Cooperation: Pakistan’s ties with the United States have weakened, especially due to shifting U.S. strategic priorities and concerns over terrorism. Eg: The U.S. share in Pakistan’s arms imports dropped from 67% in the 2000s to 0.85% in the 2020s.
    • Cost-Effective and Tailored Equipment: China offers affordable, adaptable military technology suited to Pakistan’s needs. Eg: Weapons like the JF-17 fighter jet and HQ-9 air defence systems are co-developed or exported specifically for Pakistan.

    Who leads the global arms export market?

    • United States – Global Leader: The United States dominates global arms exports, accounting for over 65% of the world’s exports in the 2020s. Eg: U.S. exports advanced systems like F-35 fighter jets, Patriot missile systems, and drones to allies worldwide.
    • Russia – Declining Influence: Russia’s share has significantly dropped to around 5% due to factors like the Ukraine war, sanctions, and reduced trust. Eg: Former major buyers like India have reduced reliance on Russian defence supplies.
    • China – Minimal Global Share but Focused Exports: China holds less than 2% of global exports but plays a critical regional role, especially with Pakistan. Eg: Nearly 33% of China’s limited arms exports go to Pakistan, highlighting strategic alignment rather than market dominance.

    What is the situation of Indian arms exports? 

    • Emerging Exporter with Limited Share: India is still a minor player in the global arms export market, contributing less than 1% of total global arms exports. Eg: India exports light arms and defence equipment to countries like Vietnam, Myanmar, and African nations.
    • Focus on Indigenous Defence Systems: India is boosting domestic production under initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and Defence Export Policy 2020, aiming to become an exporter. Eg: Systems like Akash missile, Pinaka rocket launcher, and BrahMos (jointly developed with Russia) are promoted for export.

    Way forward: 

    • Accelerate Indigenous Defence Manufacturing: Expand R&D investment and incentivize private sector participation to develop cutting-edge technologies and reduce reliance on imports. Eg: Fast-tracking indigenous programs like AMCA fighter jet and integrating startups under iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence).
    • Forge Strategic Export Alliances: Target defence exports through strategic partnerships and defence diplomacy, focusing on friendly nations in Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Eg: Boost exports of systems like BrahMos and Akash missiles through government-to-government deals and defence expos.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2020] What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

    Linkage:  The article talks about the “India and Pakistan Arms Procurement Trends” explicitly notes that India has been gradually reducing its dependence on Russia and increasingly turning to Western countries such as the U.S., France, and the U.K., as well as Israel, for its arms imports.

  • E-Zero FIR to speed up action on Cyber Frauds

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has launched a pilot project for the e-Zero FIR (First Information Report) system in Delhi to help police take faster action in high-value cyber financial frauds.

    What is Zero FIR?

    • Purpose: Zero FIR allows any police station to register an FIR for a cognisable offence without assigning a regular FIR number initially.
    • No diary: Whereas FIRs have serial numbers assigned to them, zero FIRs are assigned the number ‘0’. Hence the name.

    About the e-Zero FIR System:

    • Launch and Objective: The MHA has launched a pilot e-Zero FIR project in Delhi to speed up action in cyber financial frauds over ₹10 lakh.
    • System Developer: It has been developed by the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the MHA.
    • How It Works: Victims can file complaints via the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP) or by calling the 1930 helpline.
    • FIR Process: The e-Crime Police Station in Delhi registers the FIR digitally, which is then transferred electronically to the correct local police station.
    • Legal Basis: The project is implemented under Section 173(1) and 173(1)(ii) of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023.
    • Jurisdiction-Free Filing: Victims can report crimes without worrying about police station limits.
    • Digital Integration: The system connects the I4C’s NCRP, Delhi Police’s e-FIR portal, and NCRB’s CCTNS platform.

    Key Features and Victim Support:

    • Automatic Registration: FIRs are automatically registered for cyber frauds involving over ₹10 lakh.
    • Anywhere Access: Victims can file from any location, ensuring jurisdiction-free access.
    • Fast FIR Transfer: FIRs are sent electronically to the appropriate police station for follow-up.
    • Mandatory Visit: Victims must visit a cybercrime police station within 3 days to convert the Zero FIR into a regular FIR.
    • Improved Recovery: Early registration improves the chances of recovering lost funds in time-sensitive fraud cases.
    • Simplified Process: The system makes legal action easier and more accessible for cybercrime victims.
    [UPSC 2021] With reference to India, consider the following statements:

    1. Judicial custody means an accused is in the custody of the concerned magistrate and such an accused is locked up in a police station, not in jail.
    2. During judicial custody, the police officer in charge of the case is not allowed to interrogate the suspect without the approval of the court.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Option: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only * (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

  • 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.

  • [pib] DoT introduces Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI)

    Why in the News?

    In a major move to fight cyber fraud and financial crime, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has launched the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI) as a part of the Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP).

    Back2Basics: Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP)

    • DIP is developed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) as a secure, integrated platform for real-time intelligence sharing.
    • Stakeholders Involved: It connects Telecom Service Providers (TSPs), law enforcement agencies (LEAs), banks, financial institutions, social media platforms, and identity document issuers.
    • Functionality: The platform contains information on telecom resource misuse and supports case tracking and coordinated action.
    • Sanchar Saathi Integration: DIP acts as a backend system for citizen requests submitted through the Sanchar Saathi portal.
    • Access Control: DIP is available only to authorized stakeholders via secure connections and is NOT accessible to public.

    What is the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI)?

    • Purpose: FRI is a risk-based tool that flags mobile numbers as Medium, High, or Very High risk for financial fraud.
    • Data Sources: It pulls inputs from the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP), DoT’s Chakshu Platform, and banking institutions.
    • Beneficiaries: Helps banks, NBFCs, and UPI service providers implement added security for high-risk numbers.
    • How It Works:
      • The Digital Intelligence Unit (DIU) shares a Mobile Number Revocation List (MNRL) with reasons like cybercrime, failed verification, or excess usage.
      • The tool performs multi-dimensional analysis and assigns a fraud risk level.
      • Risk status is shared in real-time via DIP, enabling early action before fraud occurs.

    Case Study: PhonePe’s use of FRI System

    • PhonePe was one of the first adopters of the FRI system.
    • It uses FRI to:
      • Block transactions linked to Very High-risk numbers.
      • Display alerts using the PhonePe Protect feature.
    • For Medium-risk numbers, PhonePe is working on showing proactive user warnings before transactions.
    • The tool has proven highly accurate in identifying numbers involved in cyber fraud.

     

    [UPSC 2021] Which one of the following effects of the creation of black money in India has been the main cause of worry to the Government of India?

    Options: (a) Diversion of resources to the purchase of real estate and investment in luxury housing (b) Investment in unproductive activities and purchase of precious stones, jewelry, gold, etc. (c) Large donations to political parties and the growth of regionalism (d) Loss of revenue to the State Exchequer due to tax evasion*

     

  • [15th May 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Operation Sindoor — a reshaping of confrontation

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2021] How is S-400 air defence missile system different from any other system presently available in the world?

    Linkage: Air defence systems are vital in modern warfare like Operation Sindoor for controlling the skies and protecting against enemy air strikes, including missiles.  

     

    Mentor’s Comment: Operation Sindoor is no longer just a conflict between two countries. It shows how wars are now fought around the world, with new technology, smart strategies, and control of information changing the way military battles happen.

    Today’s editorial explains how Operation Sindoor has changed the way military conflicts happen. This information is useful for preparing GS Paper II (International Relations) and GS Paper III (Defence).

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    The recent India-Pakistan standoff shows an important change in how wars are fought in today’s world.

    How has Operation Sindoor reshaped the nature of military confrontation?

    • Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)/Drones: India used SkyStriker Kamikaze drones for precision strikes, while Pakistan deployed 300–400 Turkish-made Songar drones across 36 locations, marking a shift to unmanned, low-risk, and high-impact warfare.
    • Swarm Drone Technology: The large-scale use of drone swarms by Pakistan showcased how mass deployment of inexpensive, expendable drones can overwhelm enemy defences and replace traditional air force formations.
    • Layered Air Defence Systems: India’s defence relied on a combination of Akash, QRSAM, S-400 (Russia), and Barak-8 (India-Israel) systems, reflecting a transition from fixed missile platforms to multi-layered, dynamic defence networks.
    • Real-time Digital Integration Systems: The Akashteer system allowed India to digitally integrate radar inputs for real-time threat assessment and response, enabling smarter and quicker decision-making in combat.
    • Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS): IACCS enabled seamless coordination between the Army, Navy, and Air Force, turning joint operations from theory into an operational reality and enhancing battlefield synchronization.

    How have drones transformed India’s aerial warfare strategy?

    • Unmanned Combat: India has shifted from relying on costly manned fighter jets to using drones, enabling precision strikes with minimal risk to personnel. Eg: Deployment of SkyStriker Kamikaze drones for targeted attacks during Operation Sindoor.
    • Swarm Warfare: The ability to deploy large numbers of inexpensive drones allows India to overwhelm enemy defences through swarm tactics, increasing operational effectiveness. Eg: Use of multiple expendable drones to saturate Pakistan’s air defence systems.
    • Intelligence and Precision: Drones provide real-time reconnaissance and intelligence gathering, improving accuracy and reducing collateral damage in strikes. Eg: SkyStriker drones probing Pakistan’s air defence and conducting precise strikes with minimal human risk.

    Why is information warfare crucial in the India-Pakistan standoff?

    • Strategic Weapon Beyond Propaganda: Information warfare has evolved from mere propaganda to a powerful strategic tool that can influence perceptions and morale. Eg: Pakistan circulated doctored videos and fabricated claims to manipulate international and domestic opinions.
    • Psychological Impact on Morale: It aims to weaken the enemy’s resolve by creating confusion, fear, and doubt among both military personnel and civilians. Eg: Disinformation campaigns targeting India’s morale during the standoff.
    • Control of Narratives: Controlling information flow helps shape global and domestic narratives, influencing diplomatic support and international response. Eg: Both India and Pakistan using social media to project their respective versions of events.
    • Creation of Strategic Ambiguity: Manipulating information can create uncertainty and complicate the opponent’s decision-making process. Eg: Use of conflicting reports and misinformation to keep adversaries guessing about actual military capabilities and intentions.

    What are the three key doctrines outlined by the Prime Minister in his first speech on Operation Sindoor?

    1. Decisive Retaliation on India’s Terms: India will respond firmly and appropriately to any terrorist attack, delivering a befitting response strictly on its terms and taking action against all sources of terrorism.
    2. No Tolerance for Nuclear Blackmail: India will not tolerate nuclear blackmail and will strike precisely and decisively at terrorist hideouts operating under the shield of nuclear threats.
    3. No Distinction Between Terrorists and their Sponsors: India will treat the government sponsoring terrorism and the terrorist masterminds as the same, continuing decisive steps to counter state-sponsored terrorism and protect the nation.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Indigenous Innovation: Accelerate the development and deployment of homegrown advanced technologies like AI-enabled drone swarms, next-gen air defence, and electronic warfare to maintain a strategic edge over Chinese-origin systems.
    • Strengthen Joint Operations & Intelligence Sharing: Improve seamless integration among armed forces and boost real-time intelligence to swiftly counter emerging threats from adversaries using sophisticated foreign defence platforms.

  • [8th May 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Pakistan’s complex web of terror networks

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2023] Give out the major sources of terror funding in India and the efforts being made to curtail these sources. In the light of this, also discuss the aim and objective of the ‘No Money for Terror (NMFT)’ Conference recently held at New Delhi in November 2022.

    Linkage: Pakistan’s terror infrastructure, including ISI funding, Gulf-based private donors, diaspora contributions through charities, business operations, money laundering via hawala networks, narcotics trafficking, and cryptocurrency. This question directly asks about the sources of terror funding, which is a central theme in the source.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  The Soviet-Afghan War in 1979 was a turning point when Pakistan’s intelligence agency (ISI), with support from U.S. funding, started building a network of jihadi groups. This network has since developed into the advanced terrorist groups we see today. Pakistan intentionally supported these fighters, who had various goals, including attacking Kashmir, gaining control in Afghanistan, causing sectarian violence, and fighting ideological battles. Recent data shows that terrorism sponsored by Pakistan has been rising again in the region.

    Today’s editorial looks at Pakistan’s long-standing terrorist network using open-source intelligence, declassified documents, and academic studies. This content would help in GS Paper II (International Relation) and GS Paper III (Internal Security).

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Pakistan’s security forces have supported terrorist groups for a long time, seeing them as useful for their goals. Since 2008, Pakistan has repeatedly been added to and removed from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) ‘grey list’ because it has not effectively stopped the funding of terrorism.

    What role did the Soviet-Afghan War of 1979 play in the evolution of Pakistan’s terror infrastructure?

    • ISI’s Strategic Empowerment with U.S. and Saudi Funding: During the war, Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) became the main conduit for channeling billions of dollars in U.S. (CIA) and Saudi funds to Afghan mujahideen fighting Soviet forces. Eg: This funding network empowered the ISI to build covert training camps and logistical bases, which later supported outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Haqqani Network.
    • Creation of a Jihadi Ecosystem and Proxy Network: The war institutionalised jihad as a tool of foreign policy, with ISI actively recruiting, training, and radicalising fighters. These fighters, once trained, were later redeployed for operations in Kashmir, Afghanistan, and elsewhere. Eg: The Harakat ul-Mujahidin (HUM), originally formed to fight in Afghanistan, later became one of the first Pakistani terror outfits to target Indian interests in Kashmir.
    • Spread of Radical Ideology through Madrassas and Seminaries: To support the Afghan jihad, Pakistan encouraged the growth of radical madrassas, often funded by Gulf donors, to indoctrinate youth. These institutions outlived the war and became feeders for future terror groups. Eg: Many madrassas aligned with Ahl-e-Hadith and Deobandi ideologies became recruiting hubs for groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and LeT.

    Where are the major training camps and headquarters of Pakistan-supported terrorist groups located?

    • Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK): PoK serves as a key launchpad and training ground for anti-India terror operations, especially focused on Kashmir. Eg: Training camps of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) have been reported in Muzaffarabad and Kotli, where cadres are prepared for infiltration into India.
    • Punjab Province (Especially Lahore and Bahawalpur): Several extremist groups operate openly or under charitable fronts in Punjab, with strong logistical and financial networks. Eg: The headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) is based in Bahawalpur, and Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), the front of LeT, has operated from Muridke near Lahore.
    • Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP): The rugged terrain along the Afghanistan border provides safe havens for jihadist groups with transnational reach. Eg: The Haqqani Network, linked to the Afghan Taliban, has operated out of North Waziristan, conducting cross-border attacks into Afghanistan.

    How is the terror network in Pakistan financed and sustained despite international pressure?

    • State and Deep State Support: Elements within Pakistan’s military and intelligence agencies, particularly the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), have been accused of providing logistical, financial, and strategic support to terrorist groups to serve foreign policy objectives, especially in India and Afghanistan. Eg: The ISI’s backing of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) was exposed during investigations into the 2008 Mumbai attacks, where LeT operatives received training, funds, and guidance.
    • Charities and Front Organizations: Terrorist groups often operate under the guise of charitable organizations to raise funds both domestically and internationally. These organizations collect donations in the name of humanitarian relief, which are then diverted for militant activities. Eg: The Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF), a front for Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), raised significant funds until it was banned for links to LeT.
    • Drug Trafficking, Hawala, and Extortion: Illicit economies, including narcotics trafficking, smuggling, extortion, and the hawala system (an informal money transfer network), are widely used by terrorist groups to fund their operations. Eg: The Afghan-Pakistan border region, particularly in Balochistan and former FATA, is a major route for drug trafficking, which provides revenue to groups like the Haqqani Network and TTP.

    Why has Pakistan repeatedly appeared on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list rather in black list?

    • Partial Compliance and Political Commitments: Pakistan has often shown partial compliance with FATF action plans, such as enacting anti-terror financing laws or prosecuting select terror operatives. These steps, while often symbolic or limited, provide just enough movement to avoid blacklisting. Eg: After being grey-listed in 2018, Pakistan passed laws to regulate charitable donations and froze some accounts linked to UN-designated terrorists like Hafiz Saeed.
    • Geopolitical Considerations and Diplomatic Shielding: Global powers, especially China, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, have used their influence within FATF to shield Pakistan from being blacklisted due to strategic and political interests, including Pakistan’s role in regional stability and Afghanistan. Eg: In several FATF meetings, China and Turkey have openly opposed efforts to blacklist Pakistan, arguing that it has made progress.

    How did the Indian government execute OPERATION SINDOOR? 

    • Response Triggered: Launched in retaliation to the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians. Eg: The attack by a group linked to LeT prompted the operation.
    • Precision Airstrikes: Executed 24 missile strikes on nine targeted sites in Pakistan’s Punjab and administered Kashmir regions, lasting about 23 minutes. Eg: Sites in Bahawalpur and Muzaffarabad were among those hit.
    • Advanced Military Assets: Deployed Rafale jets with precision-guided SCALP missiles and AASM bombs to ensure accurate targeting with minimal collateral damage. Eg: The use of advanced munitions highlighted India’s operational efficiency.
    • Disruption of Terror Infrastructure: Targeted key terrorist facilities such as training camps, recruitment centers, and armories linked to groups like LeT and JeM. Eg: A strike in Bahawalpur reportedly affected close aides of a major terror leader.
    • Aftermath and Escalation: The operation led to heightened tensions, with Pakistan condemning the strikes and both sides engaging in artillery exchanges along the Line of Control. Eg: The subsequent border clashes underscored the operation’s significant impact on regional stability.

    Way forward: 

    • Global Accountability and Financial Sanctions: Strengthen FATF enforcement and international cooperation to impose targeted sanctions on Pakistan-based terror networks and their sponsors. Eg: Revive monitoring mechanisms to ensure closure of front charities like JuD and FIF.
    • Regional Counter-Terror Framework: India and like-minded nations should push for a South Asia-focused multilateral counter-terrorism initiative with intelligence sharing and cross-border coordination. Eg: Build on QUAD and SCO platforms to diplomatically isolate state-sponsored terrorism.