UPSC MAINS TOPIC WISE QUESTION -INTERNAL SECURITIES-EXTERNAL SECURITY CHALLANGES & RELATED MATTERS

Q1. Differentiate between Collective security and Cooperative security. (2000, 2 Marks) 

Answer:

Collective security (UN) focuses on responding to aggression with collective force. Cooperative security emphasizes addressing root causes of conflict and building trust through joint efforts. 

Q2. Explain the problem of infiltration in eastern parts of India. (2001, 2 Marks) 

Answer:

India’s eastern borders, particularly with Bangladesh, are porous, enabling illegal immigration and smuggling. This strains resources, fuels insurgencies, and threatens national security. 

Q3. Write about Terrorism its Sources in Pakistan and Afghanistan. (2006, 15 Marks) 

Answer:

Pakistan and Afghanistan have been breeding grounds for terrorism for decades. Understanding the sources of this extremism is crucial for effective policy formulation. Here’s a breakdown from a UPSC perspective: 

Historical Factors: 

• Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan: The Soviet-Afghan War (1979-1989) fueled radicalization. Mujahideen fighters, supported by the US, developed an anti-interventionist ideology that later morphed into extremism. 
• Rise of Madrassas: Religious seminaries with unregulated curriculums can become breeding grounds for radical interpretations of Islam. 

Socio-Economic Factors: 

• Poverty and Lack of Opportunities: Limited economic prospects and social mobility can fuel frustration, making individuals vulnerable to extremist narratives. 
• Porous Borders: The long, ungoverned border between Afghanistan and Pakistan facilitates the movement of militants and weapons. 

Political Factors: 

• State Sponsorship: Accusations of Pakistan’s past support for certain militant groups have complicated regional security. 
• Weak Governance: Fragile states with limited control over territory create safe havens for terrorist organizations. 

Addressing the Issue: 

• Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: Improved intelligence sharing and coordinated action between regional powers is essential. 
• Socio-Economic Development: Fostering economic opportunities and promoting social justice can counter extremist narratives. 
• Regulation of Madrassas: Implementing transparent curriculum standards can prevent radicalization. 
• Addressing State Sponsorship: Building trust through dialogue and addressing security concerns can discourage state support for militant groups. 

By identifying these sources and implementing comprehensive strategies, countries in the region can work towards a more stable and secure future. 

Q4. What, in your opinion, are the causes of terrorism? Suggest suitable measures to deal with the threat of terrorism in India. (250 words) (2008, 30 Marks) 

Answer:

Terrorism, the use of violence to intimidate and coerce, is a multifaceted threat to India’s security. Here’s a breakdown of its causes and possible solutions: 

Causes: 

• Socio-Economic Factors: Poverty, lack of opportunity, and regional disparities create fertile ground for radicalization. 
• Political Grievances: Unresolved ethno-religious conflicts, separatist movements, and a sense of injustice can fuel extremism. 
• Foreign Interference: Support and safe havens provided by hostile nations exacerbate terrorism. 
• Cyber Radicalization: Online propaganda and hate speech can groom vulnerable youth. 

Measures: 

• Inclusive Development: Addressing poverty, fostering economic opportunities, and ensuring equitable growth can counter extremist narratives. 
• Political Dialogue: Engaging with disaffected groups through dialogue and addressing genuine grievances can help find peaceful solutions. 
• Strengthening Border Security: Robust border management and intelligence gathering are crucial to prevent infiltration and cross-border movement of terrorists. 
• Countering Online Propaganda: De-radicalization efforts, promoting media literacy, and countering online hate speech can disrupt recruitment. 
• International Cooperation: Collaborating with regional and global partners on intelligence sharing, disrupting terror financing, and dismantling terror networks is vital. 

UPSC Emphasis: 

This answer highlights factors relevant to the UPSC exam. It focuses on socio-economic factors and political grievances, key areas for government intervention. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of international cooperation, a crucial aspect of India’s foreign policy. 

Note: This is a concise response within the word limit. You can elaborate on specific measures for each cause, depending on the demand of the question. 

Q5. Highlight the role of the Indian peacekeeping contingent as part of MONUSCO. (2010, 5 Marks) 

Answer:

India plays a pivotal role in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) through MONUSCO, the UN’s stabilization mission. As the second-largest troop contributor, India’s contingent provides critical manpower for: 

• Protection: Safeguarding civilians caught in the conflict between armed groups and the Congolese army (FARDC). 

• Peacebuilding: Supporting the DRC government’s efforts to restore stability and hold democratic elections. 
• Policing: India’s Formed Police Units (FPUs) strengthen law and order and train local police forces. 

India’s leadership role, with an officer previously serving as Force Commander, showcases its commitment to global security and peacekeeping initiatives. 

Q6. Discuss the measures taken by the Indian government to combat piracy in the Indian Ocean.(2011,12 Marks) 

Answer:

The Indian government employs a comprehensive strategy to tackle piracy in the Indian Ocean, safeguarding its national interests and ensuring smooth maritime trade. Here’s a breakdown of key measures: 

• Operational Deployment: The Indian Navy patrols critical areas with ships and helicopters, deterring attacks and escorting merchant vessels. India’s participation in international initiatives like Operation Atalanta further strengthens regional security. 
• Legal Framework: The enactment of the Maritime Anti-Piracy Act (2022) provides a legal basis for apprehending and prosecuting pirates apprehended in the vast Indian Ocean. This strengthens India’s role in upholding international law. 
• Regional Cooperation: India actively works with littoral states through forums like the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the Djibouti Code of Conduct. Information sharing, joint patrolling, and capacity building for regional coast guards are crucial aspects of this collaboration. 
• Addressing Root Causes: While military solutions are essential, India recognizes the importance of tackling underlying issues that fuel piracy, such as poverty and instability in Somalia. This can involve diplomatic efforts and humanitarian assistance. 

By effectively combining these measures, India demonstrates its commitment to a secure Indian Ocean, fostering regional stability and protecting its economic interests. This multi-faceted approach is crucial for the success of UPSC aspirants well-versed in strategic affairs. 

Q7. International civil aviation laws provide all countries with complete and exclusive sovereignty over the airspace above their territory. What do you understand by ‘airspace’? What are the implications of these laws on the space above this airspace? Discuss the challenges which this poses and suggest ways to contain the threat. (2014, 12 Marks) 

Answer:

International civil aviation laws, as embodied in the Chicago Convention, grant countries complete control over their airspace. This airspace encompasses the atmosphere above a nation’s land territory, territorial waters, and extends vertically upwards. 

Implications for Outer Space: The Chicago Convention doesn’t define the upper limit of airspace, leaving the boundary with outer space unclear. This creates a grey area for regulating high-altitude activities like space exploration, which falls under the purview of the Outer Space Treaty. 

Challenges: 

• Fragmentation of Regulation: Disparate national regulations can complicate high-altitude operations, requiring complex negotiations and permits. 
• Security Concerns: Unregulated access to the upper airspace could pose security threats, with potential misuse for military purposes. 

Possible Solutions: 

• International Cooperation: Treaties and agreements between nations can establish uniform regulations for high-altitude flight, balancing national security with scientific exploration. 
• ICAO Expansion: The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) could be given the mandate to regulate the upper airspace, ensuring safety and security. 

Q8.How does illegal transborder migration pose a threat to India’s security? Discuss the strategies to curb this, bringing out the factors that give impetus to such migration. (2014, 12 Marks) 

Answer:

Illegal transborder migration presents multifaceted challenges to India’s security. Here’s how: 

• Socio-economic Strain: Large influxes can strain resources, leading to competition for jobs and public services, potentially triggering social unrest. 
• National Identity: Unchecked migration can blur demographic patterns, impacting national identity and social cohesion. 
• Security Risks: Undocumented migrants can be exploited by extremist elements for infiltration or smuggling activities. 
• Law and Order: Unregulated migration can lead to black markets, human trafficking, and increased crime rates. 

Curbing the Influx: 

• Effective Border Management: Strengthening border security with improved infrastructure, surveillance, and manpower deployment. 
• Addressing Root Causes: Engaging with neighboring countries to address poverty, political instability, and persecution, which often drive migration. 
• Streamlined Legal Migration: Simplifying legal migration channels for skilled workers to reduce the appeal of illegal routes. 

Factors Impelling Migration (200 Words Exceeded): 

• Push Factors: Poverty, lack of opportunities, political instability, and environmental degradation in source countries. 
• Pull Factors: The promise of better economic prospects, access to healthcare and education in India. 
• Exploited Networks: Smuggler networks that profit from facilitating illegal border crossings. 

A nuanced approach that balances national security with humanitarian concerns is necessary. Addressing both push and pull factors, coupled with robust border management, is key to mitigating the threats posed by illegal transborder migration. 

Q9. In 2012, the longitudinal marking for high-risk areas for piracy was moved from 65 degrees east to 78 degrees east in the Arabian Sea by the International Maritime Organization. What impact does this have on India’s maritime security concerns? (2014, 12 Marks) 

Answer:

The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) eastward shift of the high-risk piracy zone in the Arabian Sea (from 65°E to 78°E) in 2012 significantly impacted India’s maritime security posture: 

Increased Responsibilities: The extended zone brings a larger area closer to India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), placing the onus of securing these waters on India. This includes safeguarding both domestic vessels and international traffic. 

Strained Fisheries-Commerce Relationship: Ships rerouting to avoid high-risk areas can encroach on traditional Indian fishing grounds, leading to conflicts and potential accidents. 

Technological Upgradation: Effective monitoring requires advanced surveillance. India has likely invested in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other technologies to patrol the expanded zone. 

International Cooperation: The situation necessitates stronger collaboration with other countries. Joint patrols, intelligence sharing, and coordinated anti-piracy operations become crucial. 

Commercial Vulnerability: Indian commercial ships now fall within the high-risk zone, raising threats and potentially impacting insurance costs. 

Positive Outcomes: The situation can also be an impetus for India to develop a robust maritime security apparatus, enhancing its regional influence. 

In conclusion, the IMO’s decision presents a complex challenge, demanding increased vigilance, technological advancements, and international cooperation to safeguard India’s maritime interests. 

Q10. China and Pakistan have entered into an agreement for the development of an economic corridor. What threat does this pose for India’s security? Critically examine. (2014, 12 Marks) 

Answer:

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a significant infrastructure project within China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). While promoting regional connectivity, it raises security concerns for India. 

Security Threats: 

• Sovereignty Concerns: CPEC traverses Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), claimed by India. This violates territorial integrity and undermines India’s position in border disputes. 
• Strategic Encirclement: An enhanced China-Pakistan partnership through CPEC could embolden Pakistan, potentially leading to a two-front war scenario for India. 
• Military Expansion: Gwadar Port’s development under CPEC strengthens China’s naval presence in the Arabian Sea, impacting India’s energy security as vital oil imports pass through this region. 
• Debt Trap Diplomacy: Excessive Chinese loans for CPEC projects could burden Pakistan, leading to potential concessions and increased Chinese influence. 

Critical Examination: 

• India’s own military capabilities and diplomatic maneuvers can mitigate these threats. 
• Regional instability due to CPEC could harm China’s economic interests as well. 
• India can focus on developing its own infrastructure and connectivity projects to counterbalance CPEC. 

Conclusion: CPEC poses challenges, but India can address them through a multi-pronged strategic approach, focusing on infrastructure development, regional partnerships, and asserting its legitimate security concerns. 

Q11. The North-East region of India has been infested with insurgency for a very long time. Analyze the major reasons for the survival of armed insurgency in this region. (150 words) (2017, 10 Marks) 

Answer:

The North-Eastern region of India has grappled with insurgency for decades. This intricate issue stems from a confluence of socio-political, economic, and geographical factors. 

Ethnic Identity and Discontent: The region’s rich ethnic tapestry breeds identity-based grievances. Tribal groups, feeling marginalized and threatened by homogenization, seek autonomy or even separate statehood, fueling insurgencies. 

Economic Disparity and Neglect: Lagging development and limited opportunities leave the region feeling neglected. This economic disparity fosters frustration and creates a breeding ground for those advocating violent change. 

Geographic Challenges: The region’s isolation, characterized by rugged terrain and international borders, hinders effective administration and control. This allows insurgent groups to operate with relative ease. 

External Support: Allegations of cross-border support from neighboring countries provide some insurgent groups with sanctuaries, training, and arms, aiding their longevity. 

Q12. The scourge of terrorism is a grave challenge to national security. What solutions do you suggest to curb this growing menace? What are the major sources of terrorist funding? (250 words) (2017, 15 Marks) 

Answer:

Terrorism poses a significant threat to national security, disrupting social order and destabilizing economies. To effectively curb this menace, a multi-pronged approach is necessary, addressing both root causes and operational capabilities. 

Countering Radicalization: 

• Socio-economic development: Address poverty, illiteracy, and lack of opportunity, which act as breeding grounds for extremism. 
• Education and de-radicalization programs: Promote tolerance, critical thinking, and peaceful conflict resolution. 
• Counter-narratives: Utilize media and community outreach to challenge extremist ideologies. 

Enhancing Security Measures: 

• Strengthen international cooperation: Foster intelligence sharing and coordinated action against terror networks. 
• Cybersecurity: Mitigate online radicalization and disrupt terrorist communication channels. 
• Border management: Increase surveillance and fortify porous borders. 

Addressing Funding Sources: 

• Financial regulation: Implement robust anti-money laundering measures and disrupt informal financing channels. 
• International cooperation on tax havens: Disrupt the use of anonymous financial institutions by terrorist organizations. 
• Targeting state sponsors of terrorism: Utilize diplomatic and economic pressure to isolate state actors who support extremism. 

Conclusion: Combating terrorism necessitates a holistic approach. By addressing grievances, strengthening security, and choking off funding sources, we can create a more secure environment for all. This requires not just national action but also strong international cooperation and a commitment to upholding the rule of law. 

Q13. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is viewed as a cardinal subset of China’s larger ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative. Give a brief description of CPEC and enumerate the reasons why India has distanced itself from the same. (2018, 10 Marks) 

Answer:

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a lynchpin of China’s ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This multi-billion dollar project envisions a vast network of infrastructure projects connecting China to Europe, Africa, and beyond. CPEC aims to create a trade and transport corridor linking China’s Xinjiang province to Gwadar Port in Pakistan through a network of roads, railways, energy pipelines, and special economic zones. 

India’s Distance: 

India has distanced itself from CPEC due to several concerns: 

• Sovereignty: CPEC traverses Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), a territory claimed by India. India views this as a violation of its territorial integrity. 
• Security: A strengthened Pakistan-China economic and strategic relationship is perceived as a security threat to India. 
• Debt Trap: India fears CPEC could saddle Pakistan with unsustainable debt, increasing China’s leverage. 

India’s reservations highlight the geopolitical complexities surrounding BRI projects and the challenges of fostering regional cooperation in South Asia. 

Q14. 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 counter-measures should be taken to prevent the same? (2018, 15 Marks) 

Answer:

India’s geographical location between the Golden Crescent (Afghanistan-Pakistan-Iran) and the Golden Triangle (Myanmar-Laos-Thailand), major illicit opium producers, poses significant internal security threats. The pervasiveness of drug trafficking strengthens criminal networks and fuels other illegal activities. 

Interlinked Illicit Activities: 

• Gunrunning: Drug cartels often use profits to acquire weapons, escalating violence and intimidation tactics. Easy access to firearms fosters terrorism and insurgency. 
• Money Laundering: Drug trafficking generates massive profits that need to be concealed. Criminal networks launder money through real estate, casinos, and hawala networks, destabilising the economy and funding further illicit activities. 
• Human Trafficking: Vulnerable populations are often lured into drug trafficking or forced into prostitution to repay debts, creating a human rights crisis. 

Counter-Measures: 

• Strengthening Border Security: Increased patrolling, improved intelligence gathering, and enhanced coastal security are crucial to curb smuggling. 
• International Cooperation: Collaborating with neighboring countries and international organizations disrupts trafficking routes and dismantles criminal networks. 
• Law Enforcement Capacity Building: Investing in training, forensics, and inter-agency coordination strengthens law enforcement’s ability to investigate and prosecute drug trafficking and related crimes. 
• Community Outreach Programs: Public awareness campaigns and de-addiction initiatives can reduce drug demand and dismantle the market that fuels trafficking. 

By tackling drug trafficking at its core and addressing its interconnectedness with other criminal activities, India can significantly improve its internal security landscape. 

Q15. The cross-border movement of insurgents is only one of the several security challenges facing the policing of the border in North-East India. Examine the various challenges currently emanating across the India- Myanmar border. Also discuss the steps to counter the challenges. (250 words) (2019, 15 Marks) 

Answer:

While insurgent movement is a concern, the India-Myanmar border presents a complex web of security challenges demanding a multi-pronged approach. 

Challenges: 

• Porous Border: Dense forests, mountainous terrain, and a riverine frontier make effective patrolling difficult. This facilitates infiltration by insurgent groups and illegal activities. 
• Free Movement Regime (FMR): This unique arrangement allowing tribal movement across the border is misused by insurgents to find safe havens in Myanmar. 
• Drug Trafficking: The proximity to the Golden Triangle makes the border vulnerable to smuggling of heroin and other narcotics, fueling regional crime and addiction. 
• Arms Smuggling: The porous border allows for smuggling of weapons from Southeast Asia and Myanmar-based insurgent groups, bolstering insurgent activities. 
• Limited Infrastructure and Resources: Inadequate border fencing, outposts, and manpower hinder effective surveillance and swift response. 

Steps to Counter: 

• Enhanced Border Management: Strengthening Border Security Force (BSF) presence, improved patrolling with technological aids (drones, cameras), and better border infrastructure are crucial. 
• Reviewing FMR: Revising the FMR with stricter regulations and robust verification processes can mitigate misuse by insurgents. 
• India-Myanmar Cooperation: Improved intelligence sharing, coordinated patrolling, and hot pursuit agreements with Myanmar are essential. 
• Addressing Socio-Economic Issues: Development initiatives in the border regions can address grievances that fuel insurgency and promote a sense of security among the populace. 
• Focus on Capacity Building: Equipping security forces with advanced training, weaponry, and communication tools is vital for effective border management. 

Conclusion: A holistic approach that addresses both security and development aspects is needed to effectively secure the India-Myanmar border. This will ensure regional stability and promote inclusive growth in the Northeast. 

Q16. 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. (250 words) (2021, 15 Marks) 

Answer:

India faces a complex web of internal security threats emanating from both external state and non-state actors. These challenges demand a nuanced understanding and a multi-pronged approach. 

External State Actors: 

• Proxy Warfare: Neighbouring countries may support insurgent groups, like in Jammu & Kashmir, fuelling instability and undermining national integrity. 
• Cyber Warfare: State-sponsored hacking can disrupt critical infrastructure and steal sensitive information, posing a threat to economic and military security. 
• Border Disputes: Unresolved border tensions can escalate into military confrontations, diverting resources and impacting internal security. 

Non-State Actors: 

• Terrorism: Militant groups can target civilians and infrastructure, causing widespread fear and disrupting social order. 
• Left Wing Extremism: Maoist rebels operating in remote areas challenge the writ of the government and exploit socio-economic grievances. 
• Cybercrime: Hackers and criminal organizations can disrupt financial systems, steal personal data, and spread disinformation, impacting national security. 

Measures to Combat these Threats 

• Enhanced Intelligence Gathering: Robust intelligence gathering and analysis are crucial to anticipate and prevent attacks. 
• Strengthening Border Security: Effective border management with advanced technology and well-trained personnel is vital. 
• Socio-Economic Development: Addressing regional imbalances and grievances can reduce the appeal of extremist ideologies. 
• International Cooperation: Collaborative efforts with neighbouring countries and global partners are essential to counter terrorism and cybercrime. 
• Revamping Law Enforcement: Modernizing law enforcement agencies with better training, equipment, and community outreach can improve their effectiveness. 

Conclusion India’s internal security landscape necessitates a comprehensive strategy that addresses both external and internal factors. By investing in proactive measures, fostering regional cooperation, and promoting inclusive development, India can safeguard its internal security and ensure a stable environment for national progress. 

Q17. Discuss the types of organized crimes. Describe the linkages between terrorists and organised crime that exist at the national and transnational levels. (150 words) (2022, 10 Marks) 

Answer:

Types of Organized Crimes: 

• Mafia-type groups: These highly structured criminal organizations often control specific territories and engage in activities like extortion, drug trafficking, and infiltration of legitimate businesses. (e.g., Indian Mafia) 
• Drug trafficking cartels: Well-funded networks involved in large-scale production, transportation, and distribution of illegal drugs. 
• Human trafficking rings: Smuggling of people across borders, often for forced labor, prostitution, or organ trade. 
• Arms smugglers: International networks that provide weapons to terrorists, insurgents, and other criminal groups. 
• Cybercrime syndicates: Operate online, targeting financial institutions, stealing data, or carrying out cyberattacks. 

Linkages between Terrorists and Organized Crime: 

National Level: 

• Shared resources: Terrorists and criminal groups collaborate to access weapons, explosives, communication channels, and safe houses. 
• Funding: Terrorist organizations may use profits from criminal activities like kidnapping, extortion, or drug trafficking to finance their operations. 
• Recruitment: Organized crime groups can be a source of recruits for terrorist organizations, exploiting existing criminal networks. 

Transnational Level: 

• Collaboration: Transnational criminal organizations provide smuggling routes, fake documentation, and forged passports to facilitate terrorist movement. 
• Money laundering: Both entities utilize complex financial networks to launder illicit funds derived from criminal activities or terrorist attacks. 
• Shared safe havens: Ungoverned spaces or weak states provide bases for terrorist organizations and criminal activities. 

Conclusion: 

The nexus between terrorism and organized crime poses a significant threat to national and international security. Effective counter-terrorism strategies must address this interconnectedness through enhanced intelligence sharing, disrupting financial networks, and fostering international cooperation. 

Q18. What are the maritime security challenges in India? Discuss the organizational, technical and procedural initiatives taken to improve maritime security. (150 words) (2022, 10 Marks) 

Answer:

India’s vast coastline (over 7,500 km) presents both immense economic opportunity and significant security challenges. Here’s a breakdown of the key threats and initiatives to address them: 

Challenges: 

• Traditional Threats: Piracy, armed robbery, and smuggling of weapons, drugs, and people. 
• Non-Traditional Threats: Maritime terrorism, infiltration by hostile elements, and resource depletion due to illegal fishing. 
• Geopolitical Concerns: Growing competition for influence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) by major powers. 

Initiatives: 

• Organizational: Indian Coast Guard, Navy, and state marine police work together under the National Committee on Maritime Security (NCMS). 
• Technical: Coastal radar systems, satellite surveillance, and upgraded patrol vessels for improved monitoring and response. 
• Procedural: Enhanced information sharing and international cooperation to counter transnational crimes and piracy. 

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