India Launches Comprehensive Anti-Terrorism Strategy with PRAHAAR Policy
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has unveiled India's inaugural comprehensive national anti-terror policy named PRAHAAR. This document outlines a multi-faceted strategy designed to tackle terrorism, cyber threats, and emerging security challenges.
The policy points out that while India continues to endure "sponsored terrorism" from cross-border sources, it is also increasingly subjected to cyber-attacks orchestrated by criminal hackers and certain nation-states. It details threats spanning land, air, and maritime domains, emphasizing the development of capabilities to protect key sectors of the economy such as power, railways, aviation, ports, defense, space, and atomic energy.
PRAHAAR makes it clear that India does not associate terrorism with any specific religion, ethnicity, or nationality. However, it notes the ongoing activities of jihadi terror groups and their affiliates in planning and executing attacks. The policy also highlights the roles of international terror organizations like Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria in promoting violence through sleeper cells and online radicalization.
The document raises concerns about the adoption of advanced technologies by terrorist entities. This includes the use of drones, encrypted messaging platforms, the dark web, and cryptocurrency wallets for funding and communication purposes. It also addresses the threats posed by CBRNED (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosive, and Digital) elements and the potential misuse of robotics and unmanned systems for harmful objectives.
A key component of the strategy involves integrating legal expertise at all stages of investigations to ensure robust prosecution of terrorism-related cases. The policy underscores the necessity for a national response that is supported by international and regional collaboration to combat cross-border terrorism.
PRAHAAR also focuses on counteracting radicalization, asserting that intelligence and law enforcement agencies are disrupting recruitment strategies targeting Indian youth. It outlines a graded response, which includes legal intervention when needed, along with de-radicalization initiatives involving community stakeholders, moderate religious leaders, and non-governmental organizations. Additionally, strategies to prevent radicalization within prison systems are included.
By releasing PRAHAAR, India has established a consolidated framework to counter terrorism, aimed at bolstering institutional cooperation, harnessing technological advancements, and strengthening resilience against both physical and digital threats.
