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Subject: Internal Security

  • [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

  • Long Range Glide Bomb (LRGB) ‘GAURAV’

    Why in the News?

    • The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted the maiden flight test of the long-range glide bomb (LRGB) ‘Gaurav’.
      • The test was carried out from a Su-30 MK-I fighter jet of IAF.

    About LRGB GAURAV

    • LRGB Gaurav is a 1,000 kg class long-range glide bomb developed by the DRDO.
    • It is air-launched from a Su-30 MK-I fighter jet of the Indian Air Force.
    • The bomb is designed and developed indigenously by the Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad.
    • Adani Defence and Bharat Forge participated as Development cum Production Partners in the Gaurav project.
    • Key Features:
      • It uses a hybrid navigation system that combines Inertial Navigation System (INS) with Global Positioning System (GPS) data for highly accurate targeting.
      • The glide bomb is capable of hitting targets at long distances, although the exact range is not publicly disclosed.
      • Gaurav enhances India’s precision strike capabilities, allowing for significant impact on various target types with reduced risk to aircraft.

    PYQ:

    [2014] Which reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. It is a surface-to-surface missile.

    2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.

    3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • A closer look at beefng up Jammu’s counter-terror grid    

    Why in the news?

    The Jammu region has faced severe security issues recently, exacerbated by troop redeployment to the LAC. To address this, around 3,500 additional troops and Special Forces were deployed.

    Present Context of J&K

    • Security Concerns: The Jammu region has seen a resurgence in terrorist activities, with security forces suffering significant losses. The situation has deteriorated, particularly following the redeployment of troops to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) after the Galwan incident in June 2020.
    • Increased Military Presence: In response to the rising threats, additional troops, including Special Forces and Assam Rifles, have been inducted into the region to bolster counter-terrorism operations.
      • Following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, there has been a strategic shift in militancy from Kashmir to Jammu, with militants adapting their tactics and increasing their operational activities in districts like Reasi, Rajouri, and Poonch.

    Need to Establish the Grid System in Vulnerable Areas

    • Establishing a counter-terrorism grid involves deploying military units strategically in vulnerable areas to dominate potential terrorist movements. This requires thorough threat assessments based on terrain, local population inclinations, and historical data.
    • The grid system emphasizes the importance of winning the trust of the local population through community engagement, which is crucial for gathering intelligence on terrorist activities.

    Challenges

    • Integration of New Troops: Newly inducted troops face the challenge of quickly orienting themselves to the local terrain and population dynamics.
    • Divided Local Population: The local population is divided into subsets that either support the state, support terrorists, or remain neutral. 
      • Gaining the support of the neutral majority is critical for the success of counter-terrorism efforts.
    • Operational Control: Recent trends show a shift in operational control from battalion-level commanders to higher command levels, which can hinder effective and timely responses to emerging threats.

    About Operation Dudhi

    • Historical Context: Operation Dudhi, conducted in May 1991 by the 7 Assam Rifles, is remembered as a successful counter-terrorism operation in the Chowkibal area. It showcased the effectiveness of battalion-level command in conducting operations.
    • Lessons Learned: The operation highlighted the importance of allowing commanding officers to maintain control over their units.
      • Recent trends of centralizing control may undermine operational effectiveness and responsiveness.
    • Need for Integrated Deployment: The success of future operations requires that newly inducted troops be deployed as integral units under existing command structures, rather than in a fragmented manner, to enhance operational coherence and effectiveness.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Human Intelligence Networks: It is crucial to build robust human intelligence networks by integrating local informants and community members into counter-terrorism efforts.
    • Integrated Deployment of Forces: Newly inducted troops should be strategically integrated with existing units to create a cohesive counter-terrorism grid. This approach will facilitate knowledge sharing and operational synergy, allowing new troops to quickly acclimatize to the local environment and build relationships with the community.

  • [pib] INS SHALKI  

    Why in the News?

    • Indian Navy’s submarine INS Shalki, recently docked at Colombo Port on its two day visit to Sri Lanka.
      • This visit comes against the backdrop of China’s persistent attempts to enhance its strategic and military influence over the island nation.

    About INS SHALKI  

    • INS Shalki is a Shishumar class diesel-electric submarine, commissioned into the Indian Navy on 07 Feb 1992.
      • Shishumar class submarines are an Indian variant of the Type 209 submarines developed by the German yard Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft under the internal designation “Type 1500”.
    • This is the first ever submarine to be built in India.
    • It was constructed under licence by the Mazgaon Dock Limited, Mumbai.

    Significance of Sri Lanka Visit

    • India sends submarines to a handful of countries with whom it has close defence and strategic ties.
    • This is the third submarine to visit Sri Lanka after the visit of INS Vagir and INS Karanj in June 2023 and February 2024, respectively.
    • India has been expanding its defence and strategic ties with Sri Lanka amid concerns over China’s attempts to increase its military presence in the Indian Ocean.
    • Countering Chinese presence:
      • The docking of the Chinese missile and satellite tracking ship ‘Yuan Wang’ at Hambantota port in August 2022 had triggered a diplomatic row between India and Sri Lanka.
      • Another Chinese warship docked at the Colombo port in August last year.

    PYQ:

    [2017] Consider the following in respect of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS):

    1. Inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the Indian Navy.

    2. IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime co-operation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • Target drug producers, not users        

    Why in the news?

    Telangana faces a drug crisis, with Hyderabad as a transit hub. Marijuana is trafficked via Konark Express to Maharashtra and Karnataka, per police reports.

    The Gravity of the Drug Problem in Telangana

    • Hyderabad has emerged as a transit hub for drugs, with marijuana being ferried through the city to be supplied to neighbouring states like Maharashtra and Karnataka.
    • The number of people charge-sheeted for drug possession and peddling increased from 735 in 2020 to 3,052 in 2022. In the first six months of 2023, nearly 1,900 cases were lodged against peddlers and users.
    • An international drug ring was busted in February 2023, seizing ₹8 crore worth of synthetic psychedelics like OG Kush and Ecstasy pills.
    • Drug abuse has been found among students in top medical and management colleges in Hyderabad.

    Initiatives taken by the State Government

    • Drug Detection Kits: Officials use the latest technology, including 12-panel drug tests, to instantly identify drug abuse among party attendees and students.
    • Special Operations: Operations such as checking attendees at Electronic Dance Music parties and conducting tests on students in colleges have been carried out.
    • Use of Sniffer Dogs: Sniffer dogs are deployed in pubs and transit hubs to detect contraband.
    • Legal and Technological Actions: The Telangana Anti-Narcotics Bureau sent cease and desist notices to firms manufacturing ganja-laced chocolates shipped via e-commerce platforms.
    • Political Will: Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has shown political will by advocating for awareness among politicians and celebrities, although this has led to legal disputes.

    Legal Status of Marijuana

    • General Prohibition: Marijuana, including its various forms such as ganja (flower), charas (resin), and hashish, is illegal under the NDPS Act. It talks about the possession, sale, and production of these substances are criminal offences.
    • Bhang Exception: Bhang, made from the leaves and seeds of the cannabis plant, is legally consumed in many parts of India, especially during religious festivals. It is not classified as an illegal substance under the NDPS Act.
    • State Variations: Different states have their own regulations regarding cannabis. For example, Uttarakhand has legalized the commercial cultivation of hemp, while Odisha has a more lenient approach to recreational use. This leads to a patchwork of laws across the country.
    • Penalties: The NDPS Act prescribes severe penalties for drug offences.
      • Possession of small quantities can lead to imprisonment of six months to one year and fines of up to ₹10,000. For larger quantities, penalties can escalate to 10-20 years of imprisonment and fines of ₹1-2 lakh.

    Requires Smart thinking and Policing (Way forward)

    • Focus on Trade, Not Users: The emphasis should be on dismantling the drug network rather than just catching users. This approach was advocated by Home Minister Amit Shah.
    • Avoiding Witch Hunts: The fight against drugs should not lead to the targeting of specific localities or public shaming of institutions.
    • Need Economic Considerations: Measures such as shutting down nightlife venues before midnight could harm the economy and the business environment.
    • Implement Integrated Approach: A comprehensive strategy is needed that involves smarter policing, better use of technology, and effective legal actions against producers and suppliers rather than users.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q  India’s proximity to two of the world’s biggest illicit opium-growing states has enhanced her internal security concerns. Explain the linkages between drug trafficking and other illicit activities such as gunrunning, money laundering and human trafficking. What countermeasures should be taken to prevent the same? (2018)

  • DAC approves amendment to MQ-9B UAV deal with US

    Why in the News?

    • The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has reviewed and approved amendments to the deal for 31 MQ-9B High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) from General Atomics of the US.
      • The DAC also approved a proposal for the scheduled refit of aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya later this year.

    About MQ-9B HALE UAV

    • The MQ-9B drone is a version of the MQ-9 “Reaper” and has two models: Sky Guardian and Sea Guardian.
    • It is built by the General Atomics.
    • This drone can fly over 40,000 feet high, making it useful for watching the Himalayan border areas.
    • It can stay in the air for up to 40 hours, perfect for long surveillance missions.
    • The MQ-9B has advanced features like automatic take-off and landing, a system to avoid other objects, secure GPS, and encrypted communications.
    • It can offer 80% of a manned aircraft’s capabilities at 20% of the cost per hour.
    • Deployment:
      • The MQ-9B drones are planned to be deployed at four places, including INS Rajaji near Chennai and Porbandar in Gujarat, by the Indian Navy.
      • The other two services will keep them jointly at two bases in Sarsawa and Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh at Air Force bases due to long runway requirements.

    Specifications of the Procurement:

    • India is looking to procure 31 MQ-9B UAVs, including 15 Sea Guardians for the Indian Navy and 16 Sky Guardians (eight each for the Indian Army and Air Force).
    • The Indian Navy has leased two MQ-9As with the maiden flight taking place on November 21, 2020.
    • The estimated cost is $3.99 billion.
    • As part of the deal, General Atomics will establish a Global Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India, contributing to offset obligations.

    Significance of the deal

    • The SeaGuardian model can help the Navy patrol large areas more economically than manned aircraft.
    • For the Army and Air Force, these drones will help monitor movements along the borders, especially with China.

    Back2Basics: Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)

    Details
    Constitution Established under the Defence Ministry for guiding defence procurement planning.
    Role Highest decision-making body in the Defence Ministry for new policies and capital acquisitions for the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Indian Coast Guard.
    Formation Created in 2001 following recommendations on reforming the National Security System after the Kargil War.
    Chairman Minister of Defence.
    Members Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Minister of State for Defence, Three Service Chiefs (Army, Navy, Air Force), Chief of Integrated Staff Committees, Defence Secretary, Secretary Defence Research & Development.
    Functions
    • In-principle approval of the 15 Year Long-Term Integrated Perspective Plan for Defence Forces.
    • Accord of Acceptance of Necessity for acquisition proposals.
    • Categorize acquisition proposals into ‘Buy’, ‘Buy & Make’, and ‘Make’.
    • Decisions on offset provisions for acquisitions above Rs. 300 crores.
    • Decisions regarding the transfer of technology under the ‘Buy & Make’ category.

     

    PYQ:

    [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

  • Defence funds decline, BRO gets backing 

    Why in the News?

    Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has allocated ₹6.22 lakh crore for the Defence Ministry for 2024-25, matching the amount presented in the interim Budget in February.

    Budgetary allocation for different sectors 

    • Border Roads Organisation (BRO): The BRO received a significant increase in funding, with an allocation of ₹6,500 crore, aimed at improving border infrastructure and promoting socio-economic development in border areas.
    • Indian Coast Guard: The allocation for the Indian Coast Guard is ₹7,651.8 crore, which is 6% lower than the revised estimates for FY24. Of this, ₹3,500 crore is designated for capital expenditure to enhance maritime capabilities.
    • Innovation in Defence: An additional ₹400 crore has been allocated for innovation in defence through the Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI) scheme, aimed at engaging startups and MSMEs in developing indigenous defence technologies.
    • Overall Allocation Breakdown: The allocation for the Defence Ministry includes 27.66% for capital expenditure, 14.82% for revenue expenditure, 30.66% for pay and allowances, 22.7% for defence pensions, and 4.17% for civil organizations under the Defence Ministry.

    Marginal Capex Push

    • Slight increase in capital expenditure: The budget reflects a marginal increase in capital expenditure, focusing on strengthening the capabilities of the armed forces and enhancing domestic procurement.
    • Strategic infrastructure development: The increased allocation to the BRO and the Coast Guard indicates a strategic push towards improving infrastructure in border areas and maritime security, though the overall capital push remains modest.
    • Focus on Indigenous solutions: The emphasis on domestic capital procurement and innovation through the iDEX scheme aims to bolster self-reliance in defence technology, fostering a more robust Indigenous defence industry.
    • Long-term strategic goals: The allocations are aligned with long-term strategic goals, including enhancing operational preparedness and infrastructure development in sensitive regions, although the overall growth in capital expenditure may be viewed as conservative.
    • Balancing defence needs with budget constraints: While the budget seeks to address critical defence needs, the slight reduction in the overall percentage of the budget allocated to defence suggests a balancing act between defence priorities and other pressing social and economic needs.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Focus on Indigenous Production: The government should further promote indigenous production capabilities by increasing investments in research and development, and by providing incentives for domestic manufacturers to produce advanced defence technologies.
    • Strengthen Infrastructure Development: The need for continued emphasis on infrastructure projects, particularly in border areas, should be prioritized to enhance national security and socio-economic development, ensuring that allocations are effectively utilized for maximum impact.

  • How do Assam’s Foreigners Tribunals function? 

    Why in the news? 

    On July 5, the Assam government instructed the Border wing of the State police not to refer cases of non-Muslims who entered India illegally before 2014 to the Foreigners Tribunals (FTs).

    About Foreigners Tribunals: 

    • Foreigners Tribunals are quasi-judicial bodies established to determine if a person staying illegally in India is a “foreigner” or not.
    • They were set up under the Foreigners (Tribunals) Order, 1964, enacted by the central government under the Foreigners Act, 1946.
    • Initially, only the central government could set up these tribunals. But a 2019 amendment empowered district magistrates in all states and UTs to establish Foreigners Tribunals.
    • The tribunals have the powers of a civil court to summon witnesses, require document production, and examine evidence.

    Decision-Making Process of Foreigners Tribunals:

    • Referral: Individuals suspected of being foreigners are referred to FTs by local authorities or border police. This referral can be based on various factors, including lack of documentation or doubtful voter status.
    • Notice Issuance: Upon receiving a reference, the FT issues a notice to the person alleged to be a foreigner. This notice is served in English or the state’s official language.The person has 10 days to respond to the notice and an additional 10 days to submit evidence supporting their claim of citizenship.
    • Submission of Evidence: The individual must present evidence to prove their Indian citizenship. This may include documents like birth certificates, school certificates, land records, or other official records.
    • Verification: The tribunal examines the documents and evidence provided, and may call witnesses or seek additional information if necessary.
    • Hearing: The FT has the authority to summon and examine the individual on oath, and to require the production of additional documents. The tribunal operates with certain powers of a civil court.
    • Judgment: If the evidence provided is deemed insufficient to prove citizenship, the individual may be declared a foreigner. If evidence is adequate, the person is recognized as an Indian citizen.
    • Detention and Deportation: If declared a foreigner and unable to appeal successfully, the person may be sent to a detention center (transit camp) for deportation.

    Role of Border Police:

    • Detection and Referral: The Assam Police Border Organisation is responsible for detecting illegal foreigners and referring suspicious cases to FTs.
    • Patrolling and Defence: They patrol the India-Bangladesh border, work with the Border Security Force, and maintain a second line of defense.
    • Monitoring: They monitor people settled in riverine and char (sandbar) areas.
    • Cases of ‘D’ Voters: They refer cases of ‘D’ (doubtful) voters to FTs as directed by the Election Commission of India.
    • NRC Appeals: People excluded from the NRC can appeal to the FTs through this wing to prove their citizenship.

    Challenges and Criticisms:

    • Supreme Court Rulings: The Supreme Court has overturned FT orders citing grave miscarriages of justice, such as the wrongful declaration of a deceased farmer, Rahim Ali, as a foreigner.
    • Corruption and Malpractice: Observations have been made about corruption within the system, with allegations of notices being improperly served.

    Conclusion: Need to Implement stricter oversight and auditing of Foreigners Tribunals to ensure fairness and adherence to legal procedures. Regular reviews and monitoring can help prevent corruption and malpractice, ensuring that notices are properly served and tribunal processes are transparent.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q How far are India’s internal security challenges linked with border management particularly in view of the long porous borders with most countries of South Asia and Myanmar? (UPSC IAS/2013)

  • How the Peace Deal in Colombia has affected its Cocaine Industry?

    Why in the News?

    Colombia, the global center of the cocaine industry, is undergoing significant changes due to domestic and global forces.

    Recent Changes: Disruption in Cocaine Trade

    • Colombia, the global center of the cocaine industry, is undergoing significant changes due to domestic and global forces.
    • Two years ago, drug traffickers who buy coca paste stopped showing up.
    • This sudden halt left the villagers without income, leading to food shortages and exodus in search of jobs.
    • The population of Cano Cabra shrunk from 200 to 40 people.
    • This pattern has repeated in communities across Colombia where coca is the only source of income.

    About the FARC Peace Deal

    • It refers to the agreement reached between the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) to end decades of conflict. It is a significant milestone in Colombia’s efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability.
    • FARC is a Marxist-Leninist guerrilla group founded in 1964 that waged an armed struggle against the Colombian government for over five decades.
    • The conflict resulted in over 220,000 deaths and the displacement of millions of people, making it one of the longest-running conflicts in Latin America.
    • A peace deal was signed on November 24, 2016, and subsequently ratified by the Colombian Congress.

    How does the peace deal impact Columbia?

    • The FARC financed its war through cocaine, relying on farmers to provide coca leaves.
    • After the FARC left the cocaine industry, smaller criminal groups took over, adopting a new economic model.
    • These groups buy large quantities of coca from fewer farmers and limit operations to border regions for easier drug transport.
    • The shift in the drug trade has left the communities economically devastated.

    Cocaine Production in Latin America:

    • Pablo Escobar the famous drug lord and the leader of the Medellín Cartel was a Colombian.
    • Ecuador has become a top cocaine exporter, and coca cultivation has increased in Peru and Central America.
    • These changes have pushed global cocaine production to record highs.
    • While cocaine consumption has reduced in the United States, it is growing in Europe and Latin America and emerging in Asia.

    Implications on India:

    • Changes in the Colombian cocaine industry may alter global drug trafficking routes.
    • India, as part of the global drug trade network, could see changes in the routes used to smuggle cocaine into the country.
    • Increased cocaine production globally could lead to a higher availability of the drug in India.
    • This could result in an increase in drug trafficking activities within the country visible in increased seizures in major cities like Pune.
    • Higher availability of cocaine could lead to an increase in drug abuse cases in India.

    PYQ:

    [2018] India’s proximity to the two of the world’s biggest illicit opium-growing states has enhanced her internal security concerns. Explain the linkages between drug trafficking and other illicit activities such as gunrunning, money laundering and human trafficking. What counter-measures should be taken to prevent the same?