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Subject: Internal Security

  • [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

     

  • Kerala’s drug menace is widespread and escalating

    Why in the News?

    Drug abuse in Kerala has increased over the past three years. In March, the Kerala High Court raised concerns about drug mafias, and the Governor met university officials to address student drug problems.

    What are the key factors contributing to the surge in drug abuse cases in Kerala over the past three years?

    • Increased Drug Trafficking via Coastal Routes: Kerala’s long coastline makes it a transit hub for international drug cartels. Example: In 2023, a Sri Lankan boat carrying 200 kg of heroin was intercepted off the Kerala coast.
    • Rise of Synthetic & Party Drugs Among Youth: Increased use of MDMA, LSD, and methamphetamine, particularly in urban areas and college campuses. Example: In 2022, over 1,000 students were caught in possession of synthetic drugs in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram.
    • Easy Availability Through Darknet & Courier Services: Online platforms and encrypted messaging apps have facilitated drug trade. Example: In 2024, Kerala police busted a drug network using dark web transactions and fake delivery addresses.
    • Widespread Consumption Beyond Urban Centers: Unlike other states, drug abuse is reported in both rural and urban districts. Example: Every district in Kerala recorded at least 500 NDPS cases in 2022, indicating a statewide crisis.
    • Limited Focus on Major Suppliers & Traffickers: 94% of NDPS cases in Kerala are for possession, with only 6% related to trafficking. Example: While thousands of consumers are arrested, major drug syndicates continue operations largely unchecked.

    What is the situation of drug abuse at all India levels?

    • Steady Rise in NDPS Cases Across India: Cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act have been increasing, though some states show a decline in recent years. Example: India recorded over 1.5 lakh NDPS cases in 2023, with a significant rise in Punjab, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu.
    • Punjab & Northeast Among the Worst-Affected Regions: Punjab has long struggled with heroin addiction, while the Northeast is affected due to drug trafficking from Myanmar’s Golden Triangle. Example: In 2024, Punjab recorded 30 cases per lakh people, the second-highest after Kerala.
    • Shift from Natural to Synthetic & Pharmaceutical Drugs: Synthetic drugs (MDMA, LSD, Meth), opioids, and prescription medicines (Tramadol, Codeine-based syrups) are increasingly being abused. Example: In Mumbai, over 60% of drug-related arrests in 2023 involved synthetic drugs rather than traditional narcotics like cannabis.
    • Growing Use of Dark Web & Digital Payments for Drug Trade: Cryptocurrency transactions, darknet markets, and courier services are being used for drug sales. Example: In 2023, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) dismantled an online drug syndicate operating across multiple Indian states.
    • State-Wise Variation in Drug Trafficking & Consumption Patterns: While Punjab & Northeast face opioid crises, Mumbai & Bengaluru see more party drug use, and Tamil Nadu & Andhra Pradesh have rising cannabis-related arrests. Example: In 2022, Bengaluru accounted for 63% of Karnataka’s NDPS cases, highlighting an urban concentration of drug abuse.

    What are the steps taken by the Government? 

    • Strengthening Law Enforcement & Anti-Drug Operations: The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and state police have intensified crackdowns on drug trafficking networks. Example: In 2023, the NCB seized over 2000 kg of drugs nationwide, including heroin and synthetic substances, in coordinated raids.
    • Expansion of Rehabilitation & De-addiction Programs: The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment runs the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) to promote awareness and rehabilitation. Example: Over 370 de-addiction centres were established under NMBA in states like Punjab, Maharashtra, and Kerala.
    • Use of Technology & AI for Drug Surveillance: Government agencies monitor dark web transactions, cryptocurrency payments, and social media platforms to track drug deals. Example: In 2023, the NCB cracked a crypto-drug syndicate that was smuggling MDMA and LSD through online orders.
    • Public Awareness & Educational Campaigns: Schools, colleges, and workplaces are conducting anti-drug sensitization programs to reduce youth drug abuse. Example: Kerala’s ‘Love-a-Thon’ campaign in universities aims to educate students on the dangers of substance abuse.
    • International Cooperation & Border Security Measures: India has increased cooperation with Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Iran to curb cross-border drug trafficking. Example: In 2023, the Indian Navy intercepted a Pakistan-based heroin shipment worth ₹1,200 crore in the Arabian Sea.

    Way forward: 

    • Targeted Crackdown on Drug Supply Chains: Strengthen intelligence-led operations against major traffickers, enhance coastal & border security, and increase inter-agency coordination to dismantle drug syndicates.
    • Comprehensive Prevention & Rehabilitation Strategy: Expand school-based drug education, integrate mental health support in de-addiction programs, and enhance community-based rehabilitation to address both urban and rural drug abuse.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Explain how narco-terrorism has emerged as a serious threat across the country. Suggest suitable measures to counter narco-terrorism. (UPSC 2024)

    Reason: This question is potentially linked with narco-terrorism. The measures suggested to counter narco-terrorism would also be relevant to addressing the drug problem in Kerala, especially if it involves organized crime and cross-border elements.

  • Miles to go: On change in Manipur, the road to normalcy

    Why in the News?

    After months of struggling to manage the ethnic crisis, the Union government finally took action by removing the N. Biren Singh-led government in Manipur and imposing President’s Rule, hoping this change would bring peace and stability.

    Who are the key stakeholders involved in the ethnic conflict, and what are their demands?

    • Meitei Community: Seeks protection of territorial integrity and opposes any division of Manipur. Example: Meitei groups have opposed the creation of a separate Kuki-Zo administrative region, fearing it would fragment the State.
    • Kuki-Zo Community: Calls for Union Territory status or a separate administrative arrangement to safeguard their identity and security. Example: Civil society organizations representing the Kuki-Zo people have warned against free movement unless their request for separate governance is met.
    • Naga Community: Resists any move to carve out a separate region, as it could affect their ancestral lands and autonomy. Example: Naga groups have opposed the Kuki-Zo call for Union Territory status, fearing loss of their territorial claims.
    • Union Government: Aims to restore law and order, maintain territorial integrity, and recover stolen arms. Example: After imposing President’s Rule, the government set a deadline for militant groups to surrender looted weapons and worked to reopen blockaded highways.

    What steps has the Union government taken to restore normalcy in Manipur after imposing President’s Rule?

    • Weapon Recovery Drive: Initiated efforts to retrieve stolen weapons from non-State actors to curb violence. Example: Set a deadline for groups to return weapons looted from police armories, recovering nearly one-third of the 3,000 missing firearms.
    • Clearing Highway Blockades: Worked to remove blockades on key highways to restore the free movement of goods and people. Example: Central armed police forces attempted to clear blockades in Kangpokpi district, though clashes resulted in one death and over 40 injuries.
    • Strengthening Security Measures: Deployed additional central forces to control violence and secure vulnerable areas. Example: Increased the presence of paramilitary forces in both the hill and valley regions to prevent further ethnic clashes.
    • Engaging in Dialogue: Encouraged talks with community representatives while rejecting violent and separatist threats. Example: Continued discussions with leaders from the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities to find a peaceful resolution.
    • Central Leadership Involvement: Called for the active engagement of senior government officials to address grievances and appeal for peace. Example: The Union Home Ministry and senior officials emphasized the need for dialogue and public appeals to restore calm and facilitate the return of displaced persons.

    Why is the demand for Union Territory status or a separate arrangement for Kuki-Zo areas considered a dangerous move?

    • Deepening Ethnic Divisions: Such a move could escalate tensions between communities, worsening the already fragile social fabric. Example: It may intensify hostility between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups, making reconciliation and long-term peace more difficult.
    • Resistance from Other Communities: The proposal could face strong opposition from other ethnic groups, such as the Nagas, who also reside in the hill areas and have their own territorial interests. Example: Naga groups may view the creation of a separate Kuki-Zo region as a threat to their claims and autonomy, leading to new conflicts.
    • Undermining Territorial Integrity: Fragmenting the state could weaken Manipur’s territorial integrity and set a precedent for further separatist demands. Example: Accepting such a demand could encourage other communities to seek similar autonomous arrangements, complicating governance and stability.

    Way forward: 

    • Inclusive Dialogue and Mediation: Facilitate continuous engagement with all ethnic groups to address grievances and promote mutual understanding through impartial mediation.
    • Strengthening Law and Order: Intensify efforts to recover illegal weapons, enforce rule of law, and ensure equitable development to rebuild trust and maintain peace.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Analyze internal security threats and transborder crimes along Myanmar, Bangladesh and Pakistan borders including Line of Control (LoC). Also discuss the role played by various security forces in this regard. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • India second-largest arms importer after Ukraine

    Why in the News?

    India remained the second-largest arms importer, despite a 9.3% decline in imports between 2015-19 and 2020-24 a/c to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) Report.

    About SIPRI

    • The SIPRI is an independent organization established in 1966, based in Stockholm, Sweden, conducting research on conflict, arms control, and disarmament.
    • SIPRI provides comprehensive data on global arms imports, exports, and military expenditures, tracking defense trends and geopolitical conflicts worldwide.
    • It analyzes ongoing wars, nuclear proliferation, cybersecurity threats, and environmental security, offering policy recommendations for international peace and stability.
    • SIPRI publishes flagship reports such as the SIPRI Yearbook, Arms Transfers Database, and Military Expenditure Database, which are widely used by governments, researchers, and policymakers.

    India’s Arms Imports: Trends and Shifts

    • India remained the world’s second-largest arms importer, despite a 9.3% decline in imports from 2015-19 to 2020-24.
    • Russia accounted for 36% of India’s arms imports in 2020-24, significantly LOWER than 55% in 2015-19 and 72% in 2010-14.
    • India has reduced dependence on Russia and increased arms deals with France, the U.S., and Israel.
    • India became France’s largest arms importer (28%), with 36 Rafale fighter jets and six Scorpene submarines already contracted.
    • India is finalizing agreements for 26 Rafale-M jets and three additional Scorpene submarines.

    Global Arms Trade Highlights

    • Ukraine – The Largest Importer: Due to the ongoing war, Ukraine’s arms imports surged nearly 100 times in 2020-24 compared to 2015-19.
      • The U.S. accounted for 45% of Ukraine’s imports, followed by Germany (12%) and Poland (11%).
    • U.S. dominance in exports: The U.S. expanded its global arms market share to 43%, reinforcing its position as the top exporter.
    • Russia’s decline: Russian arms exports fell by 64%, dropping to 7.8% of global exports, behind France (9.6%).
    • European rearmament: European arms imports surged by 155% in response to rising security threats from Russia.
    • Pakistan’s growing imports: Pakistan’s arms imports grew by 61%, with China supplying 81% of its weapons, up from 74% in 2015-19.
    • China’s self-reliance: For the first time since 1990-94, China dropped out of the top 10 arms importers, reflecting its expanding domestic defense industry.
    • Italy’s rise in arms exports: Italy climbed from 10th to 6th place, with a 4.8% share of global arms exports.

    PYQ:

    [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.