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Subject: Internal Security

  • What is Maharashtra’s new bill to combat Naxalism in urban areas?   

    Why in the News? 

    The Maharashtra state government has introduced a comprehensive new legislation – Maharashtra Special Public Security (MSPC) Bill, 2024,  to address the growing incidence of Naxalism in urban areas.

    • The Maharashtra government claims that Naxalism is no longer limited to remote rural areas, but has now spread its influence to urban centers through “frontal organizations”.
    • The government argues that existing laws like the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) and Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act are not sufficient to effectively control these urban Naxal organizations.

    Key provisions drafted under the MPSC Bill, 2024:

    Declaration of Unlawful Organizations The bill empowers the state government to declare any organization as “unlawful” under Section 3. 

    An advisory board of three qualified individuals (current/former/qualified High Court judges) will review such decisions as per Section 4.
    Definition of Unlawful Activities The bill defines “unlawful activities” in broad terms, including “activities threatening public order, peace, and tranquility” (Section 2(f)(i)), “interference with law administration and public servants” (Section 2(f)(ii)), and “encouraging disobedience to law and institutions” (Section 2(f)(iv)).
    Cognizable and Non-Bailable Offences All offences under this law will be cognizable and non-bailable, and will be investigated by a police officer not below the rank of a Sub-Inspector as per Section 9.
    Punishments
    • Members of Unlawful Organizations: Imprisonment up to 3 years and fines up to Rs 3 lakh (Section 10)
    • Non-members Contributing or Aiding Unlawful Organizations: Imprisonment up to 2 years and fines up to Rs 2 lakh (Section 11)
    • Management or Promotion of Unlawful Organizations: Imprisonment up to 3 years and fines up to Rs 3 lakh (Section 12)
    • Committing, Abetting, or Planning Unlawful Activities: Imprisonment up to 7 years and fines up to Rs 5 lakh (Section 13)
    Seizure and Forfeiture The District Magistrate or Commissioner of Police can notify and take possession of any place used for unlawful organization activities (Section 14). The government can also forfeit money and assets intended for unlawful organizations (Section 15).
    Legal Review An advisory board must review the declaration of unlawful organizations within six weeks and submit a report within three months (Section 4). The High Court can review government actions through revision petitions (Section 7).

     

    Why it is being seen as a threat to civil liberty:

    • Vague Definitions of Unlawful Activities: The bill defines “unlawful activities” in broad and vague terms, including “activities threatening public order, peace, and tranquility” and “encouraging disobedience to law and institutions” in Section 2(f)(i) and (iv).
    • Excessive Powers Granted to the State: The bill allows the state government to unilaterally declare an organization as “unlawful” without adequate judicial oversight in Section 3. It also empowers District Magistrates and Police Commissioners to grant permission for prosecution, bypassing the courts in Section 9.
    • Threat to Civil Liberties and Press Freedom: The bill’s broad provisions in Sections 2(f) and 8 could be used to criminalize activities such as reporting on administrative failures or the plight of citizens, as seen in other states with similar laws. This poses a threat to press freedom and the right to freedom of expression.
    • Lack of Transparency and Public Consultation: The bill was tabled hastily, with the draft not made available for public scrutiny and objections, as noted by civil society members.

    Potential for Misuse and Abuse: Given the vague definitions in Section 2(f) and excessive powers granted to the state in Sections 3, 8 and 9, the bill has a high potential for misuse and abuse against political opponents, activists, and journalists, turning Maharashtra into a “police state”.

    Way forward: 

    • Consultative Process: The Maharashtra government should engage in a consultative process with legal experts, civil society organizations, and stakeholders to refine the bill’s provisions, ensuring they align with constitutional principles and international human rights standards.
    • Safeguarding Rights: Introduce safeguards such as judicial oversight in the process of declaring organizations unlawful, ensuring that fundamental rights like freedom of expression and assembly are protected while addressing legitimate security concerns effectively.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q  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)

  • Appointment of the new Additional National Security Advisor (ANSA)

    Why in the News?

    • A new Additional National Security Advisor (ANSA) was appointed on July 1, 2024, marking the first time this position has been filled. The ANSA will assist the National Security Advisor (NSA) in managing the country’s national security affairs.

    Recent Controversies about the NSA’s Role

    • Recent controversies involving R&AW and the Agniveer initiative have brought the NSA’s role back into focus.
    • Questions remain about the ideal background for the NSA and the prioritization of experience in internal versus external security.

    National Security Advisor (NSA):

    • The NSA is the senior official on the National Security Council of India.
    • The post was created on 19 November 1998 by the Government of Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
    • He/ She is also the chief adviser to the Prime Minister of India on national security policy and international affairs.
    • Ajit Doval is the current NSA, and has the same rank as a Union Cabinet Minister.
    • The NSA receives all intelligence (RAW, IB, NTRO, MI, DIA, NIA) reports and co-ordinates them to present before the Prime Minister.
    • The NSA serves at the discretion of the Prime Minister of India.

    About the National Security Council of India:

    • NSC is an executive government agency tasked with advising the Prime Minister’s Office on matters of national security and strategic interest.
    • The 3 tier structure of the NSC comprises:
    1. Strategic Policy Group (SPG),
    2. National Security Advisory Board (NSAB) and
    3. National Security Council Secretariat.
    • All aspects of national security are deliberated upon by the National Security Council (NSC), the apex body. 
    • Members: Ministers of Home Affairs, Defence, External Affairs, Finance and Deputy Chairman of the NITI Aayog.
    • The NSA is its Secretary.

    Changes in the National Security Architecture

    Previous Structure New Structure
    Additional National Security Advisor (ANSA) The position was consistently vacant New ANSA appointed for the first time
    NSA’s Role NSA had a more operational role NSA’s role is now more advisory, focusing on strategic policy and advisory outfits
    Reporting Structure CDS, service chiefs, and Union secretaries reported to NSA and their respective ministers CDS, service chiefs, and Union secretaries continue to report to NSA and their ministers; however, ANSA now acts as a gatekeeper
    Size of NSA’s Organization Smaller organization with no ANSA Larger organization with an ANSA and three deputy NSAs
    Daily Security Briefings Directly by NSA Unclear if briefings will be by NSA, ANSA, or both
    Communication Chain Direct communication between mid-level unit heads and NSA ANSA acts as an intermediary between mid-level unit heads and NSA, adding a bureaucratic layer
    Ministerial Reporting NSA interacted with Union ministers and Prime Minister Ministerial bosses also interact directly with respective secretaries, causing potential turf issues
    Speculations and Future Roles Speculations about the continuity and succession of the current NSA Ongoing speculations about the future role and potential succession by the newly appointed ANSA
    Internal Security Management NSA handled internal security along with other duties ANSA now specifically responsible for internal security management and threat analysis
    Overall Security Strategy NSA managed both strategic advisory and operational aspects Separation of strategic advisory role (NSA) and operational internal security role (ANSA)

    Issues with the re-structuring:

    • Bureaucratic Layering: The introduction of the ANSA adds an additional bureaucratic layer, potentially slowing down decision-making.
    • Turf Issues: Potential conflicts between the NSA and the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, especially regarding convening meetings.
    • Lack of clarity in Roles: Uncertainty about whether the NSA or ANSA will conduct daily security briefings, leading to possible communication confusion.
    • Ministerial Reporting Dynamics: Challenges for ministers in managing secretaries’ dual reporting lines to both the NSA and their respective ministers.
    • Operational Efficiency: The NSA’s shift to a more advisory role might affect the operational efficiency in handling immediate security threats.

    Future of the NSA

    • There is speculation about the future of the incumbent NSA, Ajit Doval, and whether his elevation is a precursor to retirement.
    • Questions arise about whether ANSA Rajinder Khanna will succeed Doval or if an outsider will be appointed.

    PYQ:

    [2021] Analyse the multidimensional challenges posed by external state and non-state actors, to the internal security of India. Also discuss measures required to be taken to combat these threats.

  • [pib] GRSE Accelerated Innovation Nurturing Scheme (GAINS 2024)

    Why in the News?

    The Defence Ministry has launched the “GRSE Accelerated Innovation Nurturing Scheme (GAINS 2024)” of Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE) in Kolkata.

    About GAINS 2024

    • GAINS aims to address challenges in shipyards and promote technology development through startups nurtured in the country.
    • It aligns with the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Start-up India’ policies of the Government of India.
      • Objective: To seek solutions for shipyard-related problems and promote technological advancements.
      • Target Audience: MSMEs and Start-Ups encouraged to develop innovative solutions.

    Significance of the Scheme

    • GAINS aims to strengthen maritime security and air defence through technological advancements.
    • It leverages MSMEs and Start-Ups to achieve self-reliance in ship design and construction.

    Various defence production indigenisation initiatives in India:

    • ADITI Scheme (2024): The scheme targets the development of approximately 30 deep-tech critical and strategic technologies within the proposed timeframe.
    • Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020: Requires 50% indigenous content in procurement contracts.
    • Positive Indigenisation Lists: Mandates domestic procurement for nearly 5,000 items.
    • Srijan Indigenisation Portal (2020): Lists over 34,000 items for indigenisation.
    • Domestic Procurement Budget: Increased from 40% (₹52,000 crore) in 2020-21 to 75% (₹99,223 crore) in 2023-24.

    Innovations and R&D support:

    • iDEX Initiative (2018): Involves MSMEs, start-ups, and academia in defence innovation.
    • iDEX Prime (2022): Provides grants up to ₹10 crore for high-end solutions.
    • Technology Development Fund (TDF): Funding increased from ₹10 crore to ₹50 crore per project.

  • In 2024, Maoists suffer severe setbacks in Chhattisgarh  

    Why in the news?

    As of July 9, 2024, India has recorded a total of 162 Maoist fatalities this year, with Chhattisgarh alone reporting 141 deaths.

    • This marks one of the highest casualty figures for extremists in the predominantly tribal state since the establishment of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) in 2004.

     

     About Left-wing extremism in India

    • Origins and Ideology: LWE in India began with the 1967 Naxalbari uprising in West Bengal, advocating armed revolution for a Maoist communist state overthrowing the Indian government.
    • Modus Operandi: Naxalites engage in guerrilla warfare, attacking security forces, extorting, intimidating, and propagandizing. They target government, infrastructure, and economic interests, and run parallel governance in controlled areas.
    • Red corridor Areas: LWE affects several states in central and eastern India, including Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Kerala, although to varying degrees.
    • Factors Contributing to LWE: Socio-economic disparities, land alienation and displacement of local communities, and issues related to Adivasi rights have contributed to the proliferation of LWE. Left-wing extremist groups have capitalized on these grievances to gain support among marginalized communities.
    • Government Response: The Government of India has taken various measures to counter LWE, including security operations, development initiatives, and rehabilitation programs. Violence related to LWE has decreased by 76% in 2022 compared to 2010, and the geographical spread of violence has also reduced.

    In 2024, Maoists suffer severe setbacks in Chhattisgarh 

    • Maoist Casualties in Chhattisgarh: In 2024, Chhattisgarh reported the highest number of Maoist deaths (141) since the formation of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) in 2004. This spike coincided with the return of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to power in December 2023.
    • Historical Context and Operations: The year 2009 saw the highest number of Maoist deaths (154) following the launch of ‘Operation Green Hunt’ by the Indian government, which included military offensives involving the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Chhattisgarh police.
    • Security Forces and Civilian Casualties: While Maoist casualties have increased recently, the number of security force personnel deaths has decreased. Civilian casualties have also reduced since their peak in 2006.
    • District-Wise Insights: Bijapur district witnessed the highest number of clashes in 2024, resulting in significant Maoist casualties. This district, along with Sukma, hosts several Border Security Force (BSF) camps, indicating intense security operations.
    • Surrenders and Operations: Despite some districts being declared ‘Maoist-free’ in recent years, significant operations continue, such as the joint BSF and District Reserve Guard operation in Kanker district resulting in top Maoist commander Shankar Rao’s death.
    • Development and Insurgency: There is a correlation between the intensity of the insurgency and lower development indicators like sanitation and literacy in districts like Dantewada, Bijapur, Sukma, Bastar, and Kanker. These areas are heavily forested, complicating security operations.

    Way forward: 

    • Integrated Development and Security Strategy: Implement a comprehensive strategy that integrates robust security measures with accelerated development initiatives in LWE-affected regions. This approach should prioritize improving socio-economic conditions, addressing land alienation, providing livelihood opportunities, and enhancing basic infrastructure like education and healthcare.
    • Enhanced Intelligence and Targeted Operations: Strengthen intelligence-gathering capabilities to preempt Maoist attacks and disrupt their operational networks effectively. This includes enhancing coordination among security forces, intelligence agencies, and local law enforcement to gather timely and actionable intelligence.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Left Wing Extremism (LWE) is showing a downward trend, but still affects many parts of the country. Briefly explain the Government of India’s approach to counter the challenges posed by LWE. (2018)

  • DRDO unveils Indigenous Light Tank Zorawar

    Why in the News? 

    The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and private company Larsen & Toubro (L&T) unveiled the prototype of the Zorawar light tank.

    Note: 

    • India primarily has T-90S Bhishma and T-72 Ajeya produced under license from Russia.
    • The Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV) program aims to develop and induct next-generation Indigenous main battle tanks to replace the ageing T-72 fleet starting from 2030 onwards

    What is Zorawar Tank?

    • The Zorawar Tank was developed jointly by the DRDO and Larsen & Toubro (L&T).
    • It is an indigenous light tank designed specifically for operations in high-altitude regions like Ladakh and Sikkim.
    • It has been developed under ‘Project Zorawar’, named after General Zorawar Singh of Jammu.
    • Its prototype was unveiled in July 2023, with internal testing completed at L&T’s facility in Gujarat.
    • It has been scheduled for extensive trials in various conditions, including summer, winter, and high-altitude environments, with plans for induction by August 2025.

    Who was General Zorawar Singh (1784–1841)?

    • Zorawar Singh Chandel was a military general of the Dogra Rajput ruler, Gulab Singh of Jammu.
    • He served as the governor (wazir-e-wazarat) of Kishtwar and extended the territories of the kingdom by conquering Ladakh and Baltistan.
    • He also boldly attempted the conquest of Western Tibet (Ngari Khorsum) but was killed in battle of To-yo during the Dogra-Tibetan war.
    • About his legacy of conquests in the Himalayas including Ladakh, Tibet, Baltistan and Skardu as General and Wazir, Zorowar Singh has been referred to as the “Napoleon of India“, and “Conqueror of Ladakh“.

    Operational Capabilities:

    • Designed to operate effectively in extreme weather conditions and at high altitudes (above 15,000 feet) with minimal logistic support.
    • Intended for use in challenging terrains where heavier tanks like T-72 and T-90 face limitations.
    • Includes thermal sights, night-fighting capabilities, and features to reduce visual, sound, heat, and electromagnetic signatures.

    Technical Specifications:

    • Weight: Approximately 25 tons, allowing for air transportation.
    • Armament: Equipped with a 105mm turret from John Cockerill.
    • Firepower: Capable of firing advanced smart munitions and anti-tank guided missiles.
    • Mobility: Agile and manoeuvrable on steep slopes and riverine regions, designed to be amphibious.

    Engine and Power:

    • Initially planned with a German engine, but due to delays, currently powered by a Cummins engine assembled in India.
    • DRDO is concurrently working on developing a new power pack and a 1400 HP engine to enhance performance.

    Various Indigenous Tanks in the Indian Army

    Features
    Vijayanta (1965)
    • First indigenous main battle tank of the Indian Army
    • Based on a licensed design of the Vickers Mk.1 tank
    • Equipped with a 105mm rifled gun
    • Top speed of 52 km/h and range of 201 km
    • Crew of 4 (commander, gunner, loader, driver)
    • Upgrades included an improved fire control system, armour, and engine
    Arjun (2004)
    • India’s first fully Indigenous main battle tank developed by the Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment
    • Equipped with a 120mm rifled gun and has top speed of 67 km/h and range of 483 km
    • Crew of 4 (commander, gunner, loader, driver)
    • Features advanced fire control system, composite armor, and NBC protection
    • Arjun Mk-1A variant with improved capabilities entered service in 2022

     

  • Why stampedes take place?   

    Why in the news?

    On Tuesday, July 2, a stampede during a religious gathering in Uttar Pradesh’s Hathras district resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 121 individuals, predominantly women.

    What is a Stampede?

    A stampede is an impulsive mass movement of a crowd that often results in injuries and deaths.It disrupts the orderly movement of crowds, leading to injuries and fatalities, often triggered by panic, perceived danger, or the pursuit of something gratifying.

    Why do Stampedes Kill?

    • Primary Cause: Most stampede casualties result from traumatic asphyxia, where external compression of the chest or abdomen restricts breathing.
    • Other Causes: Include myocardial infarction (heart attacks), direct crushing injuries, head injuries, and neck compression.

    How Does Human Psychology Lead to Stampedes?

    • Panic and lacking in Cooperation: In panic-inducing situations, cooperative behavior is initially beneficial, but if disrupted, can lead to chaotic actions like pushing and shoving.
    • Positive Wish-Fulfillment Beliefs: A collective belief, rational or irrational, can mobilize large groups into actions that may compromise individual safety.

    How Does the Physical Organization of Spaces Contribute to Stampedes?

    • Factors Contributing to Stampede Risks: Lack of light, poor crowd flow management, structural collapses, blocked exits, and inadequate design of hardware (like doors and barriers) increase stampede risks.
    • Crowd Density: High density can lead to prolonged evacuation times and increased panic.

    How to Better Prevent or Mitigate Stampedes?

    • Planning and Design: Ensure adequate exit points relative to crowd size, improve crowd flow management, and use technologies for real-time crowd monitoring.
    • Communication and Coordination: Effective communication between organizers and attendees is crucial for issuing warnings and managing crowd movements.

    Notable Deadly Stampedes and Their Causes:

    • Moscow, Russia (1896): Rumors of souvenir shortages led to a deadly surge.
    • Allahabad, India (1954): Lack of crowd control and barriers led to a surge at the Kumbh Mela.
    • Lima, Peru (1963): Tear gas used during a football match triggered panic in enclosed spaces.
    • Wai, India (2005): Slippery steps during a pilgrimage resulted in a tragic stampede.

    Way forward: 

    • Crowd Monitoring Systems: Implement technologies such as CCTV cameras, crowd density sensors, and real-time monitoring software to detect and respond to overcrowding or sudden surges in crowd movement.
    • Communication Systems: Establish robust communication networks between event organizers, security personnel, and attendees. Use public address systems and mobile alerts to convey emergency instructions and warnings promptly.
    • Emergency Response Plans: Develop and rehearse comprehensive emergency response plans that include rapid evacuation procedures, medical assistance points, and coordination with local emergency services.

  • [pib] 13th Edition of Exercise MAITREE in Thailand

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Army contingent departed for the 13th edition of the India-Thailand joint military Exercise MAITREE.

    About Exercise Maitree 

    • Maitree is an annual bilateral military exercise between the Indian Army and the Royal Thai Army that has been conducted since 2006.
    • It is conducted alternatively in India and Thailand each year
    • The latest edition in 2019 took place in Umroi, Meghalaya
    • The exercise involves company-level joint training in jungle and urban scenarios
      • Objective: Enhancing combined capabilities in executing joint counter-insurgency and terrorist operations in jungle and urban environments under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.

    Training Focus:

    • It focuses on joint planning, tactical drills, physical fitness exercises, and sharing best practices.
    • Key activities include setting up joint operation centres, intelligence gathering, using drones, securing landing zones, and conducting special heliborne operations.

    Significance:

    • Exercise Maitree is significant as both India and Thailand face security challenges from terrorism, especially in southern Thailand which is prone to attacks.
    • It is part of the growing defense cooperation between India and Thailand, which signed an MoU on defense cooperation in 2012.

    India’s Defence Exercises with SE Asian Neighbours:

    India has conducted several joint military exercises with its Southeast Asian neighbors in recent years to strengthen defense cooperation and interoperability:

    • Exercise Garuda Shakti: This is a bilateral exercise between the Indian and Indonesian Special Forces. The latest iteration was held in November 2022 at the Sangga Buana Training Area in Indonesia.
    • Exercise Mitra Shakti: This is a joint exercise between the Indian and Sri Lankan armies. The latest edition was conducted in 2022.
    • Exercise VINBAX: This is a joint military exercise between India and Vietnam. The 2022 edition was the 3rd iteration of this exercise.
    • IMBEX: This is a joint military exercise between India and Myanmar. The latest edition was held in 2017-18.
    • EKUVERIN: This is a joint military exercise between the Indian and Maldivian forces. The 11th edition was conducted in 2022.
    • CORPAT: India conducts Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) exercises with maritime neighbors like Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia to enhance maritime cooperation and security in the region.
    • AIME 2023: This was the first ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise, held in May 2023 with the participation of navies from India, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

     

    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

  • [28th June 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Reasi and the ‘years-old’ issue of cross-border terror 

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q Analyse the complexity and intensity of terrorism, its causes, linkages and obnoxious nexus. Also suggests measures required to be taken to eradicate the menace of terrorism. (UPSC IAS/2021)

    Q  Indian government has recently strengthed the anti-terrorism laws by amending the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, (UAPA), 1967 and the NIA Act. Analyze the changes in the context of the prevailing security environment while discussing the scope and reasons for opposing the UAPA by human rights organisations. (UPSC IAS/2019)

    Mentor comment: Terrorism is the use of violence and intimidation, especially against civilians, to achieve political, ideological, or religious goals. It disrupts societal peace, spreads fear, and causes loss of lives and property. Combating terrorism requires global cooperation, robust intelligence, and addressing underlying issues like poverty, inequality, and political instability to prevent radicalization and promote peace.

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    • The Reasi terrorist attack on June 9 coincided with PM Narendra Modi’s third-term swearing-in.
    • This attack is reminiscent of the May 23, 2014, attack on the Consulate General of India (CGI) in Herat, Afghanistan, just before Modi’s first swearing-in.

    Terrorism: A Continuing Challenge

    • Potential links to Pakistani terrorist groups: The Reasi attack’s potential links to terrorist groups in Pakistan underscore a 35-year ongoing threat in J&K.
    • Inspiration from Afghan Jihad: Inspired by the Afghan Jihad, Pakistan believed similar tactics could pressure India in Kashmir.
    • Early 1990s developments: The Indian state and its security forces took time to develop effective counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism strategies in the early 1990s.

    Pakistan’s Commitment to the ‘Terror Cause’

    • Support from Pakistan Army and leaders: The Pakistan Army and political leaders like Nawaz Sharif and Benazir Bhutto supported J&K separatism through terror.
    • Bhutto’s stance in 1994: Benazir Bhutto refused to engage in talks with India in 1994 unless India addressed J&K on Pakistan’s terms, leading to no dialogue during her tenure.
    • Sharif’s 1997 initiative: Nawaz Sharif, during his second term as Prime Minister in 1997, sought a structured dialogue with India focusing on humanitarian issues and conflict resolution, with J&K as a priority.

    India’s Diplomatic Approach

    • Mid-1990s confidence: By the mid-1990s, India combined force with political activity, holding J&K Assembly elections in 1996.
    • Resolution through Simla Agreement: India aimed to resolve the external J&K issue peacefully through the Simla Agreement of 1972.
    • Pakistan’s use of Islamist non-state actors: Pakistan’s use of Islamist non-state actors to promote terrorism nullified the constraints of the Simla Agreement, making terrorism a strategic issue for India.

    Composite Dialogue and Pakistan’s Intransigence

    • 1998 bilateral composite dialogue: In 1998, India and Pakistan agreed on a composite dialogue, including ‘terrorism and counter-narcotics’ as key issues.
    • Pakistan’s reluctance: Pakistan’s reluctance to address India’s concerns on terrorism persisted, as it viewed the calibrated use of terrorist groups as part of its security doctrine.
    • Continued use of terrorism: Despite the efforts of Prime Ministers Vajpayee, Manmohan Singh, and Modi, Pakistan continued using terrorism as a tool against India.

    Challenges with Diplomatic Solutions

    • Public opinion in India: Public opinion in India often favored military action after major terrorist attacks.
    • Post-2008 Mumbai attack: After the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attack, Dr. Manmohan Singh opted for global diplomatic support rather than military action.
    • Post-2001 Parliament attack: After the 2001 Parliament attack, the A.B. Vajpayee government mobilized the armed forces but refrained from war due to assurances from Pakistan’s President Pervez Musharraf.

    Pre-emption and Military Action

    • Post-Pulwama attack in 2019: After the Pulwama attack in 2019, India launched the Balakot aerial strike and announced a doctrine of pre-emption.
    • 2016 surgical strikes: Earlier, limited force was used in surgical strikes following the Uri attack in 2016. However, ambiguity remains regarding the threshold for military action.

    International Recognition and Diplomatic Efforts

    • Major powers’ recognition: Major powers recognize Pakistan’s use of terrorism against its neighbors.
    • Plausible deniability: Despite plausible deniability, Pakistan’s actions are increasingly unsustainable.
    • Evidence linking attacks to Pakistani groups: India has provided evidence linking Pakistani terrorist groups to various attacks, but Pakistan has failed to act.
    • Post-Reasi attack emphasis: After the Reasi attack, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the need to address cross-border terrorism and its escalation risks between nuclear-armed countries.

    Conclusion

    • Strengthening Intelligence and Border Security: Enhance coordination among intelligence agencies for early detection of threats, and invest in advanced surveillance technologies. Implement stricter border controls using drones, sensors, and biometric systems to prevent terrorist infiltration and smuggling of weapons.
    • International Cooperation and Counter-Radicalization: Collaborate with global allies to share intelligence and counter-terrorism strategies, while engaging in diplomatic efforts to pressure countries harboring terrorists. Develop community outreach programs to counter extremist ideologies and promote education and awareness campaigns that emphasize tolerance and peace.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/reasi-and-the-years-old-issue-of-cross-border-terror/article68341431.ece

  • UNODC World Drug Report 2024: Key Highlights

    Why in the News?

    • Global drug users reached 292 million in 2022, marking a 20% increase over the past decade. The report was released by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

    About UNODC

    Aspect Details
    Global Role Leader in the fight against illicit drugs and international crime, responsible for implementing the UN’s lead programme on terrorism.
    Headquarters Vienna, Austria.
    Establishment Formed in 1997 through the merger of the United Nations Drug Control Programme and the Centre for International Crime Prevention.
    Functions 1. Educate people about the dangers of drug abuse.

    2. Strengthens international action against illicit drug production and trafficking.

    3. Improves crime prevention and assists with criminal justice reform.

    4. Supports States in ratifying and implementing legal instruments against terrorism.
    Funding Relies mainly on voluntary contributions from governments.
    India and UNODC India works closely with UNODC on multiple fronts, including drug control, crime prevention, and anti-terrorism measures.

     

    Cannabis Use: An Overview  

    According to the WHO, cannabis is a generic term for the various psychoactive preparations of the plant Cannabis sativa. Following are the derived products of Cannabis:

    • THC: The major psychoactive constituent in cannabis is Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
    • Marijuana (Ganja): The Mexican term is frequently used to refer to cannabis leaves or other crude plant material in many countries.
    • Hashish: Refers to unpollinated female cannabis plants.
    • Cannabis Oil (Hashish Oil): A concentrate of cannabinoids obtained by solvent extraction of the crude plant material or resin.

    International Laws Regulating Cannabis

    • Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND): The CND founded in 1946, is the UN agency mandated to control substances under global drug control conventions.
    • 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs: Cannabis has been on Schedule IV, the most dangerous category, since the convention’s inception.
      • Despite being on Schedule IV, many jurisdictions have legalized cannabis for medicinal and recreational use.
      • Over 50 countries now allow medicinal cannabis programs, and recreational use has been legalized in Canada, Uruguay, and 15 US states.

    Indian Context: Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS), 1985

    • Illegalization: The Act illegalizes any mixture of charas and ganja, or any drink prepared from them.
    • Legal Exceptions: The law does not ban the use of seeds and leaves of the cannabis plant if these are not mixed with other parts of the plant. For example, bhang, commonly consumed during the Holi festival, and chutney made from cannabis seeds are not illegal.

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. The United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) has a ‘Protocol against the Smuggling of Migrants by Land, Sea and Air’.
    2. The UNCAC is the ever-first legally binding global anti-corruption instrument.
    3. A highlight of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) is the inclusion of a specific chapter aimed at returning assets to their rightful owners from whom they had been taken illicitly.
    4. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is mandated by its member States to assist in the implementation of both UNCAC and UNTOC.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

     [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?

  • [pib] Launching of LSAM 20 (Yard 130)  

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Navy has inducted the ‘Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile Barge, LSAM 20 (Yard 130) into its fleet.

    What is LSAM 20?

    • LSAM 20 (Yard 130) is the Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile Barge (Storage) inducted by the Indian Navy.  (built by MSME Shipyard, M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane).
    • LSAM 20 facilitates transportation, embarkation, and disembarkation of articles/ammunition to IN Ships.
    • These Barges are indigenously designed and built under relevant Naval Rules and Regulations of the Indian Register of Shipping.

    Objective 

    • A Torpedo Cum Missile Barge is a specialized vessel used by the Indian Navy to transport various types of ammunition, torpedoes, and missiles to operational areas. 
    • These barges play a crucial role in providing logistical support to naval vessels by ensuring the uninterrupted transportation of essential military supplies. 
    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

    Practice MCQ:

    What is the primary function of LSAM 20 (Yard 130) recently inducted by the Indian Navy?

    a) Transportation of personnel

    b) Transporting ammunition, torpedoes, and missiles

    c) Search and rescue operations

    d) Underwater surveillance