💥Join UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (July Batch) + XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to Mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

Subject: Internal Security

  • It is time to operationalize the Indian Defence University (IDU)

    Why in the news? 

    • While the nature of war remains constant, its changing character imposes a premium on Military Education and the Academic preparation required to cope with security challenges.
    • It is reported that Pakistan has created two universities for its armed forces, while China has three but India has no Defence University even though such a university in India was first proposed in 1967.

    Need for Professional Military Education:

    • Inadequacy of RRU: Comparing the Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) to the IDU is seen as flawed because the RRU’s objectives and curriculum do not specifically address military requirements for managing warfare and executing plans.
    • Long Overdue Realization: The establishment of the IDU has been delayed, despite its critical importance for defense preparedness, fostering a strategic culture, and promoting inter-service integration.
    • Rapidly changing the dynamic of Warfare: The dynamic and chaotic nature of warfare, particularly in regions like Europe and West Asia, requires military officers to be able to produce results despite dealing with unclear initial information and rapidly changing circumstances.
    • Empowerment through PME: To tackle these complex challenges, military officers are empowered through a well-constructed PME continuum. This continuum enhances their abilities to adapt to changing assignments and increasing responsibilities over their long careers.
    • Parallels with U.S. Evolution: The evolution of PME in the United States, as exemplified by the Goldwater-Nichols Defense Reorganization Act of 1986 and ‘Ike’ Skelton’s report to the U.S. Congress, serves as an example of the importance of structured military education in enhancing professionalism and preparedness.

    Slow Progress in the Establishment of IDU:

    • Historical Context: The idea of establishing a Defence Services University was proposed as early as 1967 by the Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC). This indicates a long-standing recognition of the need for a broad-based education system in the Indian armed forces.
    • Delays in Implementation: Despite proposals and recommendations dating back to the 1960s and 1980s, significant progress towards establishing the IDU was only made after the Kargil conflict in the late 1990s. Even then, progress remained slow, with ‘in principle’ approval granted in May 2010, several years after the conflict.
    • Committee Formation: Following the Kargil conflict, a committee chaired by Dr K. Subrahmanyam was established to examine the issue of establishing the IDU. Based on its recommendations, in May 2010, ‘in principle’ approval was accorded for the setting up of the IDU in Gurgaon. Despite some optimistic reportage in 2017-18, the progress on setting up of the IDU has been rather slow.

    Way Forward:

    • Government Commitment and Funding: The government should prioritize the establishment of the IDU and allocate sufficient funding for its development and infrastructure.
    • Streamlined Administrative Processes: Efforts should be made to streamline bureaucratic processes involved in setting up the IDU, ensuring that administrative hurdles do not impede progress.
    • Stakeholder Collaboration: Collaboration between various stakeholders, including the armed forces, government agencies, academic institutions, and industry partners, should be facilitated to expedite the establishment of the IDU.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q) Taxila University was one of the oldest universities in the world with which were associated several renowned learned personalities of different disciplines. Its strategic location caused its fame to flourish, but unlike Nalanda, it is not considered a university in the modern sense. Discuss.

  • [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

  • Hapur verdict, challenging vigilantism

    Why in the news? 

    On 12 March 2024, in a first for Uttar Pradesh, a trial court in Hapur awarded life imprisonment in a case of cow protection-related lynching of a Muslim person.

    • Six years earlier, in June 2018, Qasim Qureshi was lynched to death, and Samiuddin was brutally assaulted, by a Hindu group in the Bajhera Khurd village, under the false accusation of cow slaughter.
    Mob lynching is an act of premeditated extrajudicial killing by a group of people, often targeted against a particular individual or group. Mob lynching is based on some false information, unconfirmed rumours etc.

    Key issues in the investigation as per judgment: 

    • Police Fabrication and Accountability: The court censures the police for fabricating the FIR, creating an alternative narrative of the incident, and failing to collect witness statements and conduct proper investigations. This raises questions about police accountability and their collusion with the accused.
    • Intent and Collusion: The judgment questions the police’s intent and alleges collusion of police personnel and investigating officers in protecting the accused. There are allegations of damaging video evidence and neglecting forensic investigations, highlighting potential corruption or bias within the police force.
    • Failure in Investigation: Despite eyewitnesses approaching officers, the police did not conduct an official identification parade, which aided the accused in securing bail. This failure indicates potential attempts by the police to misdirect the investigation.
    • State’s Role and Vigilante Violence: The conviction highlights the state’s role as not only a participant but also an enabler in the violence. It demonstrates how the state delegates illegal policing to vigilantes, with convictions having little material impact on the state’s involvement.

    Way forward 

    • Need Accountability: Implement strict protocols for filing FIRs and conducting investigations to prevent fabrication of evidence.
    • Need for Fast-track courts: The lynching cases should be tried by fast-track courts with day-to-day hearings. It is important to punish the culprit with stringent punishment and conclusion of the cases within 6 months.
    • Enhancing Investigation: Mandate the conduct of official identification parades in all cases involving serious crimes to facilitate accurate witness identification.
    • Addressing State Complicity: Strengthen legal frameworks to hold state authorities accountable for their role in enabling or condoning vigilante violence.

  • Siachen: 40 years of Operation Meghdoot

    Why in the News?

    April 13, 2024, marks the 40th anniversary of Operation Meghdoot, which was launched by the Indian Army to pre-empt Pakistan and occupy the Siachen Glacier in the Karakoram ranges.

    The genesis of Operation Meghdoot

    • Launched: April 13, 1984 (by the Indian Armed Forces);
    • Aim: To seize control of the Siachen Glacier in Kashmir, marking the first assault in the world’s highest battlefield.
      • It was a response to Pakistan’s Operation Ababeel.
    • Indian troops, including the Kumaon Regiment and Ladakh Scouts, successfully gained control of critical peaks and passes like Sia La, Bilafond La, and Gyong La, along with the commanding heights of the Saltoro Ridge, giving India a strategic advantage in the region.
    • Operation Meghdoot resulted in the first of its kind and the only army in the world to have deployed tanks and heavy ordnance at such high altitudes.
    • The Siachen Glacier conflict arose due to a vague demarcation of territories in the Karachi Agreement of 1949, leading to both India and Pakistan claiming the barren heights and the glacier, which escalated tensions in the region.

    Significance of Siachen Glacier:

    • Preventing ingress from Pakistan and China: Siachen forms a hub between Shaksgam Valley, Karakoram Pass, and Aksai Chin, making it vital for India to prevent ingress not only from Pakistan but also from China.
    • Maintaining the status quo: The Indian Army’s presence in the region has helped maintain the status quo and prevent any territorial changes that could compromise India’s security.
    • Watershed and drainage: The Siachen Glacier acts as a watershed, with its melting waters being the main source of the Nubra River in the Indian region of Ladakh, which drains into the Shyok River and ultimately the Indus River, a major water source for Pakistan.

    Recent developments on the Glacier

    • Technological Advancements: The introduction of VSAT technology has revolutionized communication on the glacier, improving mobile and data connectivity for troops. This has enhanced real-time situational awareness and telemedicine capabilities.
    • Improved Mobility and Logistics: The induction of Chinook heavy-lift helicopters, logistic drones, and All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) has significantly improved mobility across the glacier and the supply of essential provisions to remote posts, especially during winters. New logistics chains ensure the availability of fresh rations and vegetables for forward posts.
    • Aircraft Support: Various aircraft from the Indian Air Force (IAF) operate in support of Operation Meghdoot, providing crucial support to troops in remote posts. Helicopters, including Chinook, remain a lifeline for troops.
    • Enhanced Medical Facilities: Medical facilities in Partapur and Base Camp boast some of the best medical and surgical specialists in the country.

    Way forward:

    • Continued Diplomatic Talks: India and Pakistan may continue to engage in diplomatic dialogues, potentially at higher levels, to discuss the demilitarization of Siachen and other related issues. These talks could aim to find common ground and address mutual concerns.
    • Authentication of AGPL: India’s insistence on authenticating the Actual Ground Position Line (AGPL) as the first step towards demilitarization could remain a key sticking point. Efforts may be made to find a mutually acceptable way to verify and authenticate the AGPL.
    • Involvement of Third Parties:   Third-party mediation or involvement from international organizations could be explored to facilitate discussions and help build trust between India and Pakistan.

  • [pib] Exercise DUSTLIK

    Why in the news?

    Indian Army contingent departed for the 5th edition of Exercise DUSTLIK in Uzbekistan.

    Exercise DUSTLIK

    • Exercise DUSTLIK is an annual event alternating between India and Uzbekistan.
    • It is named after Dustlik, a town in the Jizzakh region of Uzbekistan.
    • The first edition of the exercise was held in 2019 near Tashkent.
    • Previous edition held in Pithoragarh, India, in February 2023.

    Objectives and Focus Areas:

    • Focus on physical fitness, joint planning, and tactical drills.
    • Emphasis on special arms skills and multi-domain operations.
    • Tactical drills include establishing command posts, intelligence centers, heliborne operations, and room intervention.
    • Incorporation of combat support arms and services besides Infantry.
    • Opportunity to share Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) of joint operations.
    • Strengthening interoperability and camaraderie between soldiers of both nations.

    India’s bilateral exercises with Central Asian Countries

    Country Exercise
    Kazakhstan Ex PRABAL DOSTYK, Ex KAZIND
    Kyrgyzstan Ex KHANJAR
    Mongolia Ex NOMADIC ELEPHANT
    Tajikistan Ex  Farkhor

  • What is Doxxing and what can you do if it happens to you?

    Why in the news?

    In mid-February, a woman reported an incident of doxxing to Mumbai Police after a man shared a video of her dancing and subjected her to harassment online.

    What is Doxxing?

    • Doxxing involves publicly disclosing an individual’s private information without consent, including personal details like addresses, phone numbers, and more.
    • It can lead to severe consequences, including physical, digital, and emotional harm, such as stalking, threats, and loss of privacy.

    Legality and Intentions

    • While sharing public content may be legal, the intentions behind sharing such content can be malicious and harmful.
    • Social media platforms like X take action against users who share information with abusive intent or to harass others.

    Consequences of Doxxing

    • Victims of doxxing may face numerous challenges, including securing their physical location, clarifying situations with employers, and dealing with a barrage of threats.
    • Security measures such as changing passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and reporting incidents to social media platforms are crucial for safeguarding against doxxing.

    Legal Remedy Against Doxxing

    • Victims of doxxing can report incidents through platforms like the:
    1. National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and
    2. File FIRs (with law enforcement authorities).
    • Social media companies like Meta and Google have tools and mechanisms in place to assist individuals who have been doxxed.

    PYQ:

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

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

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

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

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

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 4 only

    (b) 1, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 2 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

  • India ranks number 10 in World Cybercrime Index

    Why in the news?

    A new research effort, the ‘World Cybercrime Index,’ sheds light on the global cybercrime scenario, ranking India in the 10th position worldwide.

    About the World Cybercrime Index

    • The World Cybercrime Index has been developed as a joint partnership between the University of Oxford and University of New South Wales, Sydney.
    • It has been funded by CRIMGOV, a European Union-supported project.
    • The index was developed to identify major cybercrime hotspots globally by ranking countries based on the significant sources of cybercrime at a national level.
    • The study ‘Mapping the global geography of cybercrime with the World Cybercrime Index’ has been published in the journal PLOS ONE.

    The five major categories of cybercrime assessed by the study were:

    1. Technical products/services (e.g. malware coding, botnet access, access to compromised systems, tool production).
    2. Attacks and extortion (e.g. denial-of-service attacks, ransomware).
    3. Data/identity theft (e.g. hacking, phishing, account compromises, credit card comprises).
    4. Scams (e.g. advance fee fraud, business email compromise, online auction fraud).
    5. Cashing out/money laundering (e.g. credit card fraud, money mules, illicit virtual currency platforms).

    Key Findings of the Report

    • India occupies the 10th position in the cybercrime rankings, with scams involving advance fee payments being the most prevalent type.
    • Russia leads the index, followed by Ukraine, China, the US, Nigeria, and Romania, with North Korea, the UK, and Brazil rounding out the top positions.
    • Russia and Ukraine emerged as highly technical cybercrime hubs, while Nigerian cybercriminals primarily engaged in less technical forms of cybercrime.

    PYQ:

    [2018] The terms ‘Wanna Cry, Petya and Eternal Blue’ sometimes mentioned in the news recently are related to:

    (a) Exo-planets

    (b) Crypto-currency

    (c) Cyber attacks

    (d) Mini-satellites

  • Marching ahead with technology absorption

    Why in the news? 

    The Indian Army is observing the year 2024 as the ‘Year of Technology Absorption’.

    • The Indian military is moving in the right direction, but the challenge lies in sustaining technology absorption with a nuanced understanding of the requirements

    What is Technology absorption in terms of disruptive technology (DT)?

    It comprises Artificial intelligence, Autonomous Weapon Systems such as drones, sensors, robotics, space technology, and hypersonic weapon systems (also called Legacy Systems)

    Challenges in Technology absorption:

    • Compatibility issues: Incorporating new technologies into existing structures or systems, known as legacy systems, can be challenging due to compatibility issues and the need for adaptation.
    • More time in Training and Skills Development: Ensuring that personnel are adequately trained to operate and maintain new technologies is crucial. The acquisition of technical skills and knowledge may require significant investment and time.
    • Lack of Resource: Limited resources, both financial and human, may constrain the absorption of technologies because need to require more funds to maintain preexisting military hardware. Due to this military has left very less amount of money to the absorption of technologies
    • Cybersecurity Concerns: With the integration of advanced technologies comes the risk of cyber threats and vulnerabilities. Safeguarding systems and networks against cyber-attacks becomes paramount.
    • Supply Chain Management: Dependence on external suppliers for critical components or technologies can introduce risks related to reliability, availability, and security of supply chains like fighter jet engine import from the USA

    Technological Absorption needs to be governed organically:

    • Acknowledge the Sensitivity: Recognize existing vulnerabilities and sensitivities within the military structure and operations. Identify gaps between current capabilities and future needs.
    • Need to Understand Latest Technologies:  Understanding the latest advancements in technology and their potential applications in military operations. Understand the context in which these technologies can be effectively utilized.
    • Integrating at Unit-Level: Ensure that technology absorption is not limited to higher levels of command but is visibly manifested at the unit level. Democratize the use of technology to empower frontline personnel.
    • Macro-Level Aspects: Address macro-level aspects such as organizational restructuring, human resource management, cultivation of specialists at various levels, civil-military fusion, data integrity management, and procurement policies tailored for Defense Technologies (DTs).
    • Learn from Recent Wars: Analyze lessons learned from recent and ongoing conflicts to inform future planning and decision-making like the Russia Conflict

    Mains question for practice 

    Q Discuss the Challenges in Technology absorption in terms of disruptive technology (DT).And give suggestive measures to resolve the challenges

  • [22 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: New capabilities: India and the Agni-V with MIRV

    [22 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: New capabilities: India and the Agni-V with MIRV

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains:Q) Elucidate the relationship between globalization and new technology in a world of scarce resources, with special reference to India. (2022)

    Prelims:Which reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2015)

    (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

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims: Agni-V;

    Mains: Defence and Security; India’s Development in Science and Technology;

    Mentor comments: Dr. Kalam was instrumental in the development of indigenous radar systems and led the development of key missiles like Agni, Prithvi, Akash, and Trishul. Agni missiles, developed by the DRDO, have been integral to India’s defense arsenal since the early 1990s. The latest variant of Agni-V incorporates Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology, a sophisticated capability possessed by only a handful of countries globally. Interestingly, MIRV technology enables a single missile to target multiple locations primarily aimed at countering threats from China.

    Let’s learn.

    —

    Why in the News?

    On March 11, Prime Minister Narendra Modi used social media to announce India’s entry into a small club of countries capable of delivering multiple nuclear warheads on a single missile.

    Context:

    • This was accomplished with the maiden flight test of Agni-V, India’s longest-range ballistic missile with a range of over 5,000 kilometers.
    • It enhances its capability with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology under ‘Mission Divyastra’ by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
    Image2

    Features of Mission Divyastra:

    • Indigenous Technology: The MIRV system incorporates indigenous avionics systems and high-accuracy sensor packages to ensure precise targeting of re-entry vehicles.Range and Technology: Agni-V has a range of over 5,000 kilometers and features multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicle (MIRV) technology.Maiden Flight Test: DRDO conducted the maiden flight test of Agni-V, India’s longest-range ballistic missile, as part of ‘Mission Divyastra.’Development of canisterization: Since its first test in April 2012, Agni-V has undergone several developments, including canisterization for improved handling and operation.

    Significance for India:

    • Economic Perspective: The pursuit of advanced missile technologies, including MIRV capability, represents a significant investment in defense research and development. While it enhances India’s security, it also entails substantial financial costs and resource allocation, which must be managed effectively.
    • National Perspective:
      • Strategic Autonomy: By advancing its indigenous missile technology, including MIRV capability, India reduces its dependence on external suppliers for critical defense requirements.
      • No-First-Use Policy: India’s nuclear doctrine, based on a no-first-use policy, emphasizes credible minimum deterrence and massive retaliation in case of a second strike. MIRV-equipped missiles contribute to the credibility of India’s nuclear deterrence.
    • Asian Perspective:
      • Regional Security Dynamics: The deployment of MIRV-equipped missiles by India could potentially influence the strategic calculus of neighboring countries, particularly Pakistan, and contribute to stability or escalation depending on how it is perceived and managed.
      • China Factor: The choice of MIRV technology on Agni-V underscores India’s strategic focus on China, given the missile’s range and capability to overcome missile defenses. It serves as a deterrent against potential aggression from China and reinforces India’s strategic posture in the region.
    • Global Perspective:
      • Non-proliferation Norms: India’s successful development and deployment of MIRV technology on Agni-V enhance its standing as a responsible nuclear-armed state capable of safeguarding its security interests.
      • Completion of Nuclear Triad: India achieved the nuclear triad with the deployment of INS Arihant, its first nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, in 2018. The addition of MIRV technology to Agni-V further enhances India’s nuclear triad capabilities, providing diversified and robust nuclear deterrence.

    Conclusion: India’s entry into the MIRV club through the successful test of Agni-V under ‘Mission Divyastra’ marks a significant milestone, enhancing its nuclear deterrence capabilities and showcasing indigenous technological prowess on the global stage.

    Source- https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/new-capabilities-india-and-the-agni-v-with-mirv/article67976702.ece

    https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/remembering-indias-missile-man-apj-abdul-kalam-his-10-big-achievements/articleshow/94865613.cms

  • [pib] Exercise IMT TRILAT- 2024

    Why in the news-

    • INS Tir and INS Sujata are set to participate in the second edition of the India-Mozambique-Tanzania (IMT) Tri-Lateral (TRILAT) Exercise.

    Exercise IMT TRILAT- 2024

    • It is a biennial exercise conducted by the navies of India, Mozambique and Tanzania.
    • The first edition of the exercise took place in October 2022.
    • It seeks to enhance India’s commitment to maritime security and cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.
    • Through this joint exercise, the Indian Navy aims to foster mutual trust and understanding with its maritime partners in Mozambique and Tanzania.

    Phases of the Exercise

    • Harbour Phase: Activities include joint harbour training such as Damage Control, Fire Fighting, Visit Board Search and Seizure procedures, Medical Lectures, Casualty Evacuation, and Diving operations.
    • Sea Phase: Focuses on countering asymmetric threats, Visit Board Search and Seizure procedures, boat handling, manoeuvres, firing exercises, and joint EEZ surveillance.

    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?

    1. 1 only
    2. 2 only
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Consider the following statements about Exercise IMT TRILAT:

    1. It is an annual exercise conducted by the navies of India, Mozambique and Tanzania.
    2. The first edition of the exercise took place in October 2022.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    1. Only 1
    2. Only 2
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2