The terms ‘Hot Pursuit’ and ‘Surgical Strikes’ have become integral components of the discourse surrounding armed responses to terrorist attacks, reflecting the evolving nature of modern warfare. These strategic concepts are often invoked to address the complexities of counterterrorism efforts, where precision and speed are paramount. ‘Hot Pursuit’ refers to the pursuit of fleeing terrorists across borders in real-time, aiming to prevent their escape and hold them accountable for their actions. On the other hand, ‘Surgical Strikes’ involve meticulously planned and precisely executed military operations targeting specific terrorist assets with minimal collateral damage. The strategic impact of such actions is multi-faceted. Firstly, they demonstrate a proactive and assertive stance against terrorism, showcasing a nation’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens and interests. Secondly, these approaches underscore the importance of intelligence gathering and real-time decision-making, emphasizing the need for swift responses in the face of imminent threats. Furthermore, the surgical precision of these strikes minimizes the risk of unintended consequences, garnering international support and minimizing the potential for escalation. However, challenges persist, including the delicate balance between national sovereignty and collective security, as well as the potential for miscalculations that could escalate tensions. In essence, the strategic impact of ‘Hot Pursuit’ and ‘Surgical Strikes’ lies in their ability to effectively combat terrorism while navigating the intricate geopolitical landscape with finesse and responsibility.
Tag: Role of external state and non-state actors, in creating challenges to internal security.
- Various security forces and agencies and their mandate.
Decoding Questions:
- In Intro, try to start your answer with writing about surgical strike and hot pursuit concepts.
- In Body, Discuss various strategic impacts of surgical strikes and hot pursuit like actions.
- Try to conclude with need to of hot pursuit and surgical strike like options.
Answer:
With the Indian forces carrying out “surgical strikes” across the Line of Control, India seems to have abandoned the self-proclaimed policy of “strategic restraint” adopted in the face of earlier provocations by terrorists believed to be backed by Pakistan. This may not be the first time India has undertaken quick cross-LoC operations, but it has never before chosen to share information so publicly.
The strategic impact of such actions can be seen in the following manner:
- This surgical strike indicates that India’s technical capabilities (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance — C4ISR) have improved a great deal.
- The terms “surgical strike” and “pre-emptive strike” used by India were intended to make it clear to the enemy that there would be repercussions and that crossing the border does not guarantee immunity
- The strikes proved to be an important element in maintaining the morale of the people of India and the armed forces.
- The strike reinforced the credibility of the government and displayed its resolve, even as justified restraint and maturity were on display. This act would also counter India’s image of being a soft state.
- Russia has also backed India, saying Pakistan should take effective steps to stop the activities of terrorist groups in its territory. India seems to have played its cards well by seeking international and regional isolation of Pakistan before striking infiltrator targets across the LOC.
Thus, surgical strikes and hot pursuits are essential to send very specific and effective messages to enemies. This will not only create deterrence but also help in taking legitimate actions against terrorist organizations with international support. Such kind of actions as and when warranted augurs well with India’s zero-tolerance policy against terrorism.
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