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Subject: Internal Security

  • AH-64E Apache Helicopters

    AH-64E Apache Helicopters

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Army is set to receive its first batch of three AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from Boeing in December.

    About AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters:

    Details
    Name and Origin AH-64E Apache (Apache Guardian) is a highly advanced multi-role combat helicopter and lies in a heavy category.

    Manufactured by Boeing, originating from the US.
    India’s Acquisition In February 2020, India signed a deal for six AH-64E helicopters, with an additional six contracted later.
    Countries Operating Operated by India, Egypt, Israel, Japan, South Korea, UAE, UK, and others.
    Indigenous Production Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL), a joint venture, produces fuselages in Hyderabad, set to become the sole global producer, sourcing 90% of parts from India.
    Combat Features Features open architecture for advanced systems, enhanced thrust and lift, digital interoperability, improved survivability, and advanced infrared and night vision capabilities.

    Deployment Plans for Apache 

    • The Apaches are primarily suited for countering armour and will be deployed in desert regions.
    • However, due to their operational limitations at high altitudes, they won’t be used in regions like Ladakh.
    • Instead, the indigenous Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd., will be deployed in Ladakh by 2024-25.
      • The LCH is designed specifically for high-altitude conditions.

    PYQ:

    [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

  • Global Cybersecurity Index, 2024

    Why in the News?

    • India has achieved Tier 1 status in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2024, published by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
      • With a score of 98.49 out of 100, India is now among the top nations demonstrating role-model cybersecurity practices.

    About Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI):

    Details
    Launch  2015, by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

    About ITU

    • Founded on 17 May 1865 as the International Telegraph Union
    • Presently has 193 member states, with South Sudan joining most recently in 2011
    • India became a member in 1869
    Objective • Measures the commitment of countries to cybersecurity based on five pillars.
    • Helps identify areas for improvement and encourages capacity and capability building.
    Five Pillars • Legal: Laws and regulations on cybercrime and cybersecurity
    • Technical: Implementation of technical capabilities via national and sector-specific agencies
    • Organizational: National strategies and organizations implementing cybersecurity
    • Capacity Development: Awareness, training, education, and incentives for cybersecurity
    • Cooperation: Partnerships between agencies, firms, and countries
    Strengths and Weaknesses • Most countries are strongest in the Legal pillar.
    • The Capacity Development and Technical pillars are where most countries are weakest.
    GCI 2024 Five-Tier Analysis • Tier 1 (Role-modelling): Score of 95-100
    • Tier 2 (Advancing): Score of 85-95
    • Tier 3 (Establishing): Score of 55-85
    • Tier 4 (Evolving):

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] In India, under cyber insurance for individuals, which of the following benefits are generally covered, in addition to payment for the loss of funds and other benefits?

    1. Cost of restoration of the computer system in case of malware disrupting access to one’s computer

    2. Cost of a new computer if some miscreant willfully damages it, if proved so.

    3. Cost of hiring a specialized consultant to minimize the loss in case of cyber extortion

    4. Cost of defence in the Court of Law if any third-party files a suit

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 4 only

    (b) 1, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 2 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

  • FATF on India: Effective Money Laundering system, low prosecution

    Why in the News?

    The FATF placed India in the “regular follow-up” category for having an “effective” anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing system but highlighted the need for significant improvements in prosecuting such cases.

    Key Highlights of the FATF Mutual Evaluation Report on India:

    • “Regular Follow-up” Category: India has been placed in the “regular follow-up” category, signifying that its system for combating money laundering and terror financing is effective.
      • Financial institutions need better risk profiling of customers, and the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) registry needs improved monitoring for accurate ownership information.
    • Money Laundering Risks: The primary sources of money laundering in India come from fraud, cyber-enabled fraud, corruption, and drug trafficking.
      • Terror threats are mainly linked to Islamic State or al-Qaeda groups in Jammu and Kashmir.
    • Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs): India should strengthen measures to prevent abuse of the NPO sector for terror financing, and enhance outreach to NPOs at risk.
    • Improvements in Sanctions Framework: India needs to improve its targeted financial sanctions framework to ensure the timely freezing of funds and assets related to terror financing.
    • Domestic Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs): The report urged India to define domestic PEPs under its anti-money laundering laws and improve identification and risk-based measures related to them.
    • Delay in prosecution: The report noted delays in prosecution due to review petitions are still pending, which delays the resolution of cases under the PMLA.

    Challenges faced by the Indian Government:

    • Prosecution and Conviction Delays: Despite an increase in investigations, the number of prosecutions and convictions remains low, with significant delays in concluding trials, especially under the PMLA.
    • Constitutionality Issues: Legal challenges to the constitutionality of the PMLA between 2014-2022 disrupted the momentum in terror financing and money laundering prosecutions.
    • Risk Profiling of Financial Customers: There is a need for better risk profiling of customers in financial institutions to address money laundering more effectively.
    • Inaccurate Ownership Information: Ensuring accurate owner information in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) registry remains a challenge, especially concerning investments from tax havens.
    • Non-Profit Organisations: Ensuring that non-profits are not abused for terror financing requires better coordination and focused outreach by authorities.
    • Lack of Definition for Domestic PEPs: While India has defined foreign PEPs, the absence of a clear definition for domestic PEPs under PMLA creates a gap in the anti-money laundering framework.
    • Fast-Tracking Trials: The need to fast-track trials in money laundering and terror financing cases is recognized, but progress in addressing this challenge remains slow.

    Way Forward: 

    • Strengthen Legal and Institutional Framework: India should establish clear definitions for domestic Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs) under anti-money laundering laws and enhance targeted financial sanctions to ensure timely asset freezing.
    • Enhance Risk Management and Monitoring: Financial institutions should improve risk profiling and implement stricter Know Your Customer (KYC) processes, while the Ministry of Corporate Affairs should ensure accurate ownership data, especially for investments from tax havens.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Discuss how emerging technologies and globalisation contribute to money laundering. Elaborate measures to tackle the problem of money laundering both at national and international levels. (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • [pib] Exercise AL NAJAH

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Army contingent has departed to Salalah, Oman for the 5th edition of the India-Oman Joint Military Exercise AL NAJAH. T

    About Exercise AL NAJAH

    • AL NAJAH has been conducted biennially since 2015, alternating between India and Oman. The last edition of the exercise was held at Mahajan, Rajasthan.
    • Aim: to enhance the capability of both nations’ forces to carry out counter-terrorism operations.
    • Significance: It will focus on operations in a desert environment, preparing both sides for complex challenges in such terrains.
    • Features:
    1. Joint Planning for operations
    2. Cordon and Search Operations
    3. Fighting in Built-Up Areas
    4. Mobile Vehicle Check Posts
    5. Counter-Drone Operations

    PYQ:

    [2024] Which of the following statements about the Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023 is/ 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

  • Exercise Yudh Abhyas, 2024

    Why in the News?

    • The 2024 edition of the India-U.S. Army bilateral exercise Yudh Abhyas has begun at the Mahajan field firing ranges in Rajasthan.
      • Concurrently, Phase-II of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) largest multilateral exercise, Tarang Shakti, is underway in Jodhpur, with eight countries participating, including India.

    About Exercise Yudh Abhyas

    Details
    Type  Bilateral joint military exercise between India and the United States
    Inception Year 2004
    Frequency Annual
    Primary Objective Enhance military cooperation and joint operational capabilities, particularly focusing on counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations.
    Location Held alternately in India and the USA
    Earlier Edition (2023) Held at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, focusing on cold-weather operations and high-altitude warfare
    Focus
    • Counter-terrorism operations in semi-desert and desert terrains
    • Urban warfare (FIBUA – Fighting in Built-Up Areas)
    Participating Forces in 2024
    • Indian Army: 600 troops from the RAJPUT Regiment
    • US Army: 1-24 Battalion of the 11th Airborne Division, Alaska
    Tactical Drills in 2024
    • Joint planning sessions
    • Joint responses to terrorist actions
    • Combined field training exercises
    Significance 
    • Reflects the growing military partnership between India and the US
    • Enhances interoperability and strengthens strategic defence ties

     

    PYQ:

    [2024] Which of the following statements about the Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023 is/ 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] HIM- DRONE-A-THON-2 & HIMTECH-2024

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Army has announced two significant events, HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2 and HIMTECH-2024, aimed at advancing military technologies for operations in high-altitude areas.

    About HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2 

    • HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2 is scheduled to take place at Wari La, near Leh on 17-18 September 2024.
    • This event serves as a platform for the Indian Drone Industry to demonstrate drone solutions tailored for high-altitude areas, where the Indian Army frequently operates.
    • The event will be conducted under actual terrain and environmental conditions at altitudes ranging from 4,000 to 5,000 meters to test the drones’ performance in realistic scenarios.
    • Indigenous drone manufacturers are invited to participate, demonstrating various drone types, including:
      • Surveillance drones
      • Loitering munitions
      • Logistics drones
      • Swarm drones
      • Drones with specialized roles and payloads, such as Electronic Warfare, Synthetic Aperture Radar, Communication Intelligence, and Electronic Intelligence.

    HIMTECH-2024: Advancing High-Altitude Technologies

    • HIMTECH-2024 will follow HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2.
    • It is conceptualized to discuss, demonstrate, and explore new opportunities for the development and integration of technologies for high-altitude military operations.
    • It has been organized in collaboration with FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry).
    • It will highlight the latest technologies and systems developed to meet the operational requirements along India’s Northern Borders.

  • Anti-Naxal Operation in Dantewada, Chhattisgarh

    Why in the News?

    • In a significant anti-Naxal operation, nine Maoists were killed by security forces in the forests along the border of Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada.
      • This operation was part of ongoing efforts to eliminate Naxalite influence in the region.

    Anti-Naxal Operation in Dantewada

    • Dantewada, a district in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, India, is known as a hotbed of Naxal (Maoist) insurgency. 
    • The region has seen numerous anti-Naxal operations over the years due to its dense forests, rugged terrain, and the presence of significant Naxalite (Maoist) cadres.

    Important security operations against Naxalism:

    Details
    Operation Greyhounds 1989 – Ongoing: A specialized anti-Naxal force created to combat Naxal insurgency in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
    Operation Green Hunt 2009 – Ongoing: To flush out Naxalite insurgents in the “Red Corridor ” from their strongholds.
    Operation Thunderstorm 2010: To target Naxal cadres in the dense forest regions of Lalgarh, West Bengal.
    Operation Octopus 2014: To clear Maoist influence from the Sukma district of Chhattisgarh.
    Operation All Out 2015 – Ongoing: To launch coordinated offensive operations against Naxalites in Jharkhand and Bihar.
    Operation Samadhan 2017 – Ongoing: A comprehensive strategy to combat LWE by addressing both security and developmental issues.
    Operation Prahar 2017 – Ongoing: To eliminate top Maoist leaders and dismantle support networks in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh.
    Operation Monsoon 2018: To target Maoist groups during the monsoon season when their activities are restricted.

     

    PYQ:

    [2022] 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 multi-layered strategy to tackle the menace of Naxalism.

  • INS Arighat: India’s second nuclear sub

    Why in the News?

    India’s second nuclear submarine, the Arighaat, was officially commissioned into the Indian Navy in Visakhapatnam, following rigorous trials conducted over the past few months.

    Status of Navy’s Submarines in India: 

    • Current Fleet: The Indian Navy’s submarine fleet includes two nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (INS Arihant and INS Arighaat) and 16 conventional submarines. The Navy is also constructing two additional larger SSBNs.
    • Operational Readiness: The Navy is authorized to maintain a fleet of 18 submarines, but operational availability can be affected by maintenance and refitting schedules, with about 30% of the fleet typically under repair.

    About the newly inducted INS Arighaat

    • INS Arighaat is a 6,000-tonne Arihant-class ballistic missile submarine, which will join its predecessor, INS Arihant, as a vital component of India’s nuclear triad.
    • The submarine can carry up to 12 K-15 SLBMs with a range of approximately 750 km or four K-4 SLBMs exceeding 3,500 km.
      • It is powered by an 83 MW pressurized light-water nuclear reactor, allowing it to remain submerged for extended periods without surfacing compared to the diesel-electric submarine.
    • It will enhance India’s nuclear deterrence, support strategic balance in the region, and play a crucial role in national security.

    How does it significantly strengthen India’s nuclear triad?

    • Enhances Second-Strike Capability:  With two nuclear submarines now operational, India can maintain a constant presence of a submarine patrolling its waters, ready to launch a nuclear strike at short notice in retaliation.  
    • Expands Missile Reach: INS Arighaat is equipped with indigenously developed K-15 missiles with a range of over 700 km and long-lasting availability underwater due to a nuclear-powered engine without surfacing.
    • From the South China Sea, these submarines can potentially target locations in China, including its capital Beijing.  
    • Both of this major developments will provide India with a more balanced and robust nuclear deterrent capability across all three domains – land, air, and sea.

    Way forward: 

    • Indigenous Submarine Development: Accelerate the development and commissioning of indigenous SSBNs (Submersible Ship Ballistic Missile Nuclear) and advanced SLBMs (Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles) to further strengthen India’s strategic autonomy and ensure sustained deterrence capabilities.
    • Strategic Partnerships and Modernization: Enhance collaboration with global naval powers for technology transfers and expertise while modernizing the current submarine fleet to ensure continued operational readiness and address emerging maritime security challenges.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q What are the maritime security challenges in India? Discuss the organisational, technical and procedural initiatives taken to improve maritime security. (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • [pib] Project NAMAN

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Army has launched the first phase of Project NAMAN, aimed at providing comprehensive support and services to Defence Pensioners, Veterans, and their families.

    About Project NAMAN:

    Details
    Launched By Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA)
    Purpose To provide dedicated support and services to Defence Pensioners, Veterans, and their families.
    Core Implementation Centered on the SPARSH (System for Pension Administration Raksha) digital pension system, which streamlines pension-related processes.
    Key Features Establishment of Common Service Centres (CSCs) for offering SPARSH-enabled pension services, Government to Citizen (G2C) services, and Business to Consumer (B2C) services.
    Initial Deployment 14 CSCs established across key locations in India including New Delhi (first center), Jalandhar, Leh, Dehradun, Lucknow, Jodhpur etc.
    Expansion Plans Approximately 200 centers are planned nationwide over the next 2-3 years.
    Infrastructure Support HDFC Bank provided the necessary IT infrastructure for the CSCs, while local military stations contributed essential physical infrastructure and facilities.
    Community Impact Enhances access to essential services for veterans and their families like grievance redressal and also provides entrepreneurial opportunities for Veterans and Next of Kin (NOKs), who manage the CSCs.
    Support for Operators Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs), selected from among the veterans or NOKs, manage each CSC.

    Comprehensive training and a monthly monetary grant of ₹20,000 from HDFC Bank for the first 12 months to assist in stabilization.

  • [pib] Exercise Udara Shakti, 2024

    Why in the News?

    The recent edition of Exercise Udara Shakti was recently concluded in Malaysia.

    About Exercise Udara Shakti

    • Udara Shakti is a bilateral air force exercise conducted between India and Malaysia.
    • The primary objective of this exercise is to enhance military cooperation, improve mutual understanding, and share operational expertise.

    Features of the Exercise  

    • Both India and Malaysia deploy their Sukhoi-30 fighter jets for the exercise, facilitating direct comparison and operational cooperation.
    • A distinctive feature of this initiative is the HOP (Hands-On Participation) Exercise, where pilots from both nations swap aircraft.
    • The Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE) component focuses on sharing knowledge and skills in aviation and engineering specific to the Sukhoi-30 aircraft.

    PYQ:

    [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 operation 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, 2 and 4

    (c) 1, 3 and 4

    (d) 2, 3 and 4