Q1. Examine the demand for greater state autonomy and its impact on the smooth functioning of the Indian polity. (250 words)
Ans:
- Demand for State Autonomy and Indian Polity
India’s vibrant democracy faces a constant negotiation between central authority and regional aspirations. The demand for greater state autonomy stems from the country’s inherent diversity – cultural, linguistic, and ethnic. This fosters a desire for self-governance, allowing states to address local issues effectively.
Arguments for Greater Autonomy:
- Empowers regional identity: Recognizes the distinct needs and aspirations of various populations.
- Improves policy implementation: States can tailor policies to their specific contexts, potentially leading to better outcomes.
- Increases accountability: Brings decision-making closer to the people, fostering a sense of ownership.
- Drives economic development: Empowers states to leverage their resources and comparative advantages.
Impact on Smooth Functioning:
- National unity and integrity: Excessive autonomy can lead to centrifugal tendencies, potentially weakening national cohesion.
- Inter-state cooperation: Uncoordinated policies across states can hinder national programs and resource sharing.
- Disparity in development: Weaker states might struggle without central support, exacerbating regional imbalances.
- National security: Unaddressed security threats at the state level can have national ramifications.
Finding the Balance:
The Indian Constitution enshrines a cooperative federalism, where Centre and states work in tandem. Striking a balance involves:
- Strengthening institutions: Empowering state legislatures and financial commissions for equitable resource allocation.
- Collaborative federalism: Fostering dialogue and joint decision-making on national issues.
- Asymmetrical federalism: Recognizing the different needs of states and tailoring central interventions accordingly.
The demand for greater autonomy is a dynamic aspect of Indian politics. By fostering a spirit of cooperative federalism, India can leverage its diversity for inclusive growth and national integration.
Q2. Discuss India’s policy towards international terrorism. (20 words)
Ans: India adopts a zero-tolerance policy towards international terrorism, advocating for global cooperation to combat this transnational threat.
Q3. Why is there a demand for making Uttarakhand a separate Hill State in India? (15 Marks)
Ans: The demand for a separate state of Uttarakhand, carved out of Uttar Pradesh, arose from a multitude of factors rooted in regional disparity and a distinct identity. Here’s a breakdown of the key reasons:
1. Uneven Development: Uttarakhand, a hilly region, faced neglect compared to the plains of Uttar Pradesh. Limited infrastructure, poor accessibility, and a lack of focus on agriculture and industry in the hills led to economic stagnation and unemployment. The distance from the state capital in Lucknow further hampered effective administration and resource allocation for the region.
2. Cultural and Geographical Distinctness: The people of Uttarakhand possess a unique cultural identity shaped by the Himalayas. Their language, traditions, and customs differed from the dominant culture of the plains. The challenging mountainous terrain also posed logistical difficulties for governance from a distant capital.
3. Historical Background: The sentiment for a separate state existed since the 1930s. The colonial era saw exploitation of the region’s resources, further fueling resentment. The demand gained momentum in the post-independence period, with leaders like Manvendra Shah and political parties like Uttarakhand Kranti Dal spearheading the movement.
4. Political Representation and Aspiration: Residents felt inadequately represented in the Uttar Pradesh government. A separate statehood promised better political participation, allowing them to address their specific needs and aspirations more effectively.
5. Environmental Concerns: The fragile Himalayan ecology faced threats due to unplanned development policies framed with the plains in mind. The demand for a separate state also arose from a desire for greater control over environmental protection and sustainable development practices in the region.
Conclusion: The decades-long Uttarakhand movement culminated in the state’s formation in 2000. While challenges remain, Uttarakhand’s statehood reflects the importance of recognizing regional aspirations and ensuring balanced development across diverse geographical areas within India.
Q4. Article 244 of the Indian Constitution relates to the administration of scheduled areas and tribal areas. Analyse the impact of non-implementation of the provisions of the Fifth schedule on the growth of Left Wing Extremism. (200 words)
Ans: The Fifth Schedule of the Indian Constitution lays out provisions for the administration of Scheduled Areas (SAs) – regions with a predominant tribal population. Incomplete implementation of these provisions weakens governance and fuels LWE growth in these areas.
Key Issues:
- Underdevelopment and Alienation: Non-implementation hinders tribal participation in development projects. This fosters a sense of alienation and distrust towards the government, making them susceptible to extremist narratives.
- Resource Exploitation: Without proper safeguards, resource-rich tribal lands become vulnerable to exploitation by corporations. This displaces tribals and deprives them of benefits, pushing them towards extremism.
- Erosion of Traditional Systems: The Schedule empowers tribal self-governance through Gram Sabhas (village councils). Weak implementation undermines these bodies, weakening social control and creating a vacuum filled by extremists.
Consequences:
- Recruitment Ground: Disgruntled tribals become easy prey for LWE groups who exploit their grievances and offer a sense of belonging.
- Logistical Support: Local communities, disillusioned with the government, may provide logistical support to extremists, hindering counter-insurgency efforts.
Conclusion:
Effective implementation of the Fifth Schedule – ensuring tribal participation in development, protecting resources, and strengthening self-governance – is crucial to address the root causes of LWE and promote lasting peace in these areas.
Q5.“The diverse nature of India as a multi-religious and multi-ethnic society is not immune to the impact of radicalism which is seen in her neighborhood.” Discuss along with strategies to be adopted to counter this environment. (2014, 12½ Marks)
Ans:
- India’s Diverse Tapestry and the Challenge of Radicalism
India, a land teeming with vibrant cultures, religions, and ethnicities, embodies the spirit of pluralism. However, this very diversity makes it susceptible to the insidious influence of radical ideologies, particularly those flourishing in its neighbourhood. Countering this threat requires a multi-pronged approach that strengthens national security while upholding India’s core values.
Vulnerability to Radicalism:
- Geopolitical Realities: The presence of radical groups and ongoing conflicts in neighbouring regions pose a direct threat. Infiltration, propaganda, and support for extremist elements within India can disrupt social harmony.
- Socio-economic Disparity: Economic marginalization, lack of education, and social exclusion can create fertile ground for radical narratives that exploit grievances.
- Misuse of Technology: The rise of social media and online platforms allows radical groups to spread hate speech, groom vulnerable individuals, and recruit for violent activities.
Strategies to Counter Radicalism:
- Strengthening Internal Security: Robust intelligence gathering, effective border management, and improved coordination between law enforcement agencies are crucial to identify and neutralize potential threats.
- Promoting Interfaith Dialogue and Social Harmony: Fostering understanding and respect between communities through interfaith dialogue, educational initiatives, and cultural exchange programs can counter narratives of division.
- Socio-economic Empowerment: Addressing socio-economic disparities through inclusive development, education, and skill development can remove individuals from the clutches of radicalization.
- Effective Communication and Media Literacy: Countering extremist narratives requires proactive communication strategies that promote tolerance and critical thinking. Media literacy initiatives can equip citizens to discern truth from misinformation.
- De-radicalization Programs: Programs focused on rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals exposed to radical ideology offer a path for them to return to mainstream society.
- International Cooperation: Collaboration with regional and global partners in sharing intelligence, disrupting financing of terrorist networks, and dismantling online radicalization platforms is vital.
Conclusion: India’s strength lies in its diversity. By harnessing this rich tapestry, India can foster social harmony, empower its citizens, and effectively counter the forces of radicalization. This requires constant vigilance, a proactive approach, and a commitment to upholding the nation’s core values of tolerance, inclusivity, and the rule of law. Only through such a multi-faceted approach can India safeguard its vibrant social fabric and ensure a peaceful future for its citizens.
Q6. The persisting drives of the Government for the development of large industries in backward areas have resulted in isolating the tribal population and the farmers who face multiple displacements. With Malkangiri and Naxalbari foci, discuss the corrective strategies needed to win the Left Wing Extremism (LWE) doctrine-affected citizens back into the mainstream of social and economic growth. (2015, 12 Marks)
Ans:
- Persisting Dilemmas in Development: Addressing Tribal Concerns and Countering Left-Wing Extremism (LWE)
The focus on large-scale industrial development in backward areas, particularly in Malkangiri and Naxalbari, has created a complex situation. While aiming for economic growth, it has often resulted in the marginalization of tribal communities and farmers facing displacement. This fertile ground has been exploited by Left-Wing Extremist (LWE) groups, necessitating a multi-pronged corrective strategy.
Understanding the Roots of Discontent:
- Displacement and Loss of Livelihood: Large-scale projects often lead to land acquisition, impacting traditional agricultural practices and displacing tribal communities from their ancestral lands. This disrupts their socio-cultural fabric and economic self-sufficiency.
- Broken Promises and Unfulfilled Needs: Unfulfilled promises regarding fair compensation, rehabilitation packages, and sustainable livelihood options after displacement breed resentment and fuel LWE narratives.
- Lack of Transparency and Beneficiary Participation: Opaque land acquisition processes and a top-down development approach alienate local communities. They feel excluded from decision-making, leading to a sense of injustice.
Corrective Strategies for Reintegration:
- Rights-based Development: Ensure adherence to the Forest Rights Act (FRA) and the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA) to guarantee land rights and self-governance for tribal communities.
- Sustainable Livelihood Programs: Develop alternative income sources for displaced populations, focusing on skill development in areas like eco-tourism, minor forest produce utilization, and non-timber forest products (NTFP) management.
- Inclusive Development Planning: Practice participatory democracy by involving local communities in planning and decision-making processes. This fosters a sense of ownership and ensures projects cater to their specific needs.
- Focus on Education and Healthcare: Invest in education and healthcare infrastructure in tribal areas to empower communities and improve their quality of life.
- Effective Grievance Redressal: Establish transparent and accessible mechanisms for addressing land acquisition grievances and ensuring timely compensation.
Countering the LWE Narrative:
- Effective Communication: Engage in proactive communication with local communities to counter LWE propaganda. Highlight the benefits of development projects and address concerns effectively.
- Focus on Security with Sensitivity: Security forces need to operate with sensitivity and respect human rights. This will erode LWE support and build trust with the local population.
- De-radicalization and Rehabilitation: Formulate programs for the rehabilitation and reintegration of LWE cadres who wish to return to the mainstream.
The Way Forward:
Addressing LWE requires a nuanced approach that balances development with the protection of tribal rights and livelihoods. By focusing on inclusive development, participatory planning, and addressing grievances effectively, the government can create a conducive environment for growth and marginalize the appeal of LWE ideologies. This will ultimately lead to the reintegration of affected citizens into the social and economic mainstream.
Q7. Border management is a complex task due to difficult terrain and hostile relations with some countries. Elucidate the challenges and strategies for effective border management. (2016, 12 Marks)
Ans: Effective border management is critical for national security, peaceful international relations, and curbing illegal activities. However, India’s geographical diversity and strained relations with some neighbours make it a complex task.
Challenges
- Difficult Terrain: India’s borders encompass diverse landscapes – dense forests (Bangladesh, Bhutan), vast deserts (Pakistan), and rugged mountains (China, Nepal). This heterogeneity poses logistical hurdles for patrolling, infrastructure development, and surveillance.
- Hostile Relations: Strained relations with countries like Pakistan and China create constant tension and border disputes. This necessitates a heightened security posture, complicating management strategies.
- Porous Borders: Unfenced stretches or poorly defined borders make unauthorized movement easier. This is exploited for infiltration, smuggling (weapons, drugs, etc.), and human trafficking.
- Resource Constraints: Manpower, technological tools (night vision, drones), and robust communication networks are often limited, hindering effective surveillance and response.
- Transnational Crimes: Organized crime syndicates exploit borders for illicit activities, posing a challenge to national security and economic well-being.
Strategies
- Strengthening Border Infrastructure: Building fences, watchtowers, and well-equipped border posts along critical areas can deter illegal activities and improve monitoring.
- Technological Upgradation: Utilizing advanced technology like night-vision cameras, thermal imaging, and drones for real-time surveillance can significantly improve border vigilance.
- Improved Border Patrolling: Increasing manpower and employing well-trained patrolling units with better mobility and equipment can strengthen physical control over borders.
- International Cooperation: Enhancing cooperation with neighbouring countries through information sharing, coordinated patrolling, and joint operations can address cross-border threats more effectively.
- Community Engagement: Developing a sense of ownership among border communities through capacity building and fostering trust with security forces can generate valuable local intelligence.
- Addressing Root Causes: Focusing on socio-economic development in remote border areas can reduce the appeal of illegal activities and generate a more secure environment.
Conclusion: Effective border management requires a multi-pronged approach. By addressing geographical challenges, fostering diplomatic cooperation, and employing advanced technology, India can secure its borders and ensure national security.
Q8. 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, 10 Marks)
Ans: Left Wing Extremism (LWE), also known as Naxalism, is a Maoist-inspired ideology advocating violent revolution against the Indian state. While LWE violence has shown a downward trend, it remains a significant internal security threat in several regions.
The Government of India adopts a multi-pronged strategy to counter LWE challenges:
1. Security Measures:
- Security Related Expenditure (SRE) Scheme: Central funding for LWE-affected districts to strengthen police forces, equip them with better weaponry and communication technology, and improve intelligence gathering.
- Deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs): CRPF, BSF, and other CAPFs provide additional security and conduct counter-insurgency operations alongside state police.
- Focus on Offensive Operations: Proactive operations to disrupt Naxalite activities, dismantle their hideouts, and apprehend leaders.
2. Development Initiatives:
- Integration of LWE-Affected Areas: Infrastructure development projects like roads, bridges, and schools to improve connectivity, create job opportunities, and bring these regions into the national mainstream.
- Tribal Welfare Schemes: Addressing grievances of tribals who are often targeted for recruitment by Naxalites. This includes initiatives for education, healthcare, livelihood development, and ensuring their rights under the Forest Rights Act.
- Improved Governance: Strengthening local administration to deliver essential services and address grievances promptly, thereby reducing the appeal of Naxalite ideology.
3. Public Outreach and Communication:
- Winning “Hearts and Minds”: Countering Naxalite propaganda by highlighting government development efforts and promoting a sense of security among the local population.
- Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy: Encouraging Naxalites to surrender by offering a path to reintegration into society.
Challenges and the Way Forward:
- Ensuring Effective Implementation: Bureaucratic hurdles and corruption can hinder the success of development initiatives.
- Coordination between Centre and States: Seamless collaboration between central and state governments is crucial for a unified approach.
- Addressing Root Causes: Socio-economic issues like poverty, unemployment, and tribal alienation need long-term solutions to prevent future radicalization.
Conclusion: The Government of India’s multi-pronged strategy combining security measures, development initiatives, and public outreach has shown success in reducing LWE violence. However, sustained efforts are needed to address the root causes, improve governance, and ensure effective implementation of development schemes for a permanent solution.
Q9. The banning of ‘Jamaat-e-Islaami’ in Jammu and Kashmir brought into focus the role of over-ground workers (OGWs) in assisting terrorist organizations. Examine the role played by OGWs in assisting terrorist organizations in insurgency-affected areas. Discuss measures to neutralize influence of OGWs. (150 words)
Ans: The banning of Jamaat-e-Islami highlighted the critical role Over-Ground Workers (OGWs) play in sustaining terrorist activities in insurgency-affected areas. Unlike armed militants, OGWs operate within the civilian populace, providing a crucial link between underground networks and the external world.
OGWs act as:
- Force Multipliers: They assist with logistics, finance, and shelter, enabling militants to operate with greater mobility and effectiveness.
- Intelligence Gatherers: OGWs provide real-time information on security force movements and potential targets, facilitating attacks.
- Recruiters: They exploit social grievances and manipulate vulnerable youth for radicalization and recruitment.
- Propagandists: OGWs may spread extremist ideology and create a narrative sympathetic to the terrorist cause.
Neutralizing OGW Influence:
- Enhanced Intelligence gathering: Focus on infiltration of OGW networks and community engagement to identify potential sympathizers.
- De-radicalization programs: Address root causes of radicalization through education, social development, and grievance redressal.
- Law enforcement: Effective implementation of laws against terror funding and support structures.
- Public awareness campaigns: Counter extremist narratives by promoting tolerance and inclusivity.
By adopting a multi-pronged approach, we can dismantle the support system that OGWs provide, thereby weakening terrorist organizations operating in these regions.
Q10. For effective border area management, discuss the steps required to be taken to deny local support to militants and also suggest ways to manage favorable perception among locals. (150 words)
Ans: Denying Local Support to Militants and Fostering Positive Perceptions: A Two-Pronged Approach for Effective Border Area Management
Countering Local Support for Militancy:
- Robust Intelligence Network: Develop a comprehensive network with human intelligence sources and technological surveillance to pre-empt infiltration attempts and disrupt militant activities.
- Addressing Grievances: Identify and address underlying socio-economic issues that fuel discontent, such as lack of development, unemployment, or discrimination.
- Community Engagement: Proactively engage border communities through development initiatives, capacity building programs, and fostering trust with security forces.
Managing Favorable Perceptions Among Locals:
- Cultural Sensitivity: Security forces must be trained in cultural sensitivity to build rapport with locals and avoid alienation.
- Transparency and Accountability: Ensure transparent operations and hold security personnel accountable for any transgressions.
- Development Programs: Implement targeted development programs that enhance infrastructure, healthcare, and education in border areas, demonstrating the government’s commitment to their well-being.
By adopting a two-pronged approach that addresses both security concerns and local grievances, a more secure and peaceful border environment can be established.pen_spark
Q11. Analyse internal security threats and transborder crimes along Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Pakistan borders including Line of Control (LoC). Also discuss the role played by various security forces in this regard. (2020, 15 Marks)
Ans: India’s borders with Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, including the Line of Control (LoC), pose a complex web of internal security threats and transborder crimes. Here’s a breakdown of the challenges and the role of security forces:
Threats and Crimes:
- Myanmar Border:
- Insurgency: Insurgent groups from India’s Northeast, like ULFA and NDFB, find safe havens in Myanmar’s porous borders. This fuels separatist movements and violence within India.
- Drug Trafficking: The Golden Triangle’s proximity makes the Northeast vulnerable to drug trafficking of heroin and amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS).
- Illegal Immigration: Porous borders facilitate illegal immigration, straining resources and potentially impacting national security.
- Bangladesh Border:
- Illegal Immigration: Influx of undocumented migrants creates socio-economic burdens and demographic imbalances.
- Human Trafficking: Vulnerable populations are at risk of trafficking for labor or exploitation.
- Fake Currency: Smuggling of counterfeit currency can destabilize the Indian economy.
- Pakistan Border:
- Cross-Border Terrorism: Pakistan’s alleged support to terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed fuels terrorism within India.
- Infiltration: The LoC witnesses infiltration attempts by militants for attacks.
- Smuggling: Weapons, drugs, and other contraband flow across the border, impacting security and financing criminal activities.
Role of Security Forces:
- Border Security Force (BSF): Manages border patrolling, fencing, and immigration checks along the Bangladesh and Pakistan borders.
- Assam Rifles: Guards the Indo-Myanmar border, focusing on counter-insurgency and border management.
- Indian Army: Deployed along the LoC for territorial defense and counter-infiltration operations.
- Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs): Assist in maintaining internal security in border areas, tackling smuggling, and assisting civilian authorities.
Strengthening Security Measures:
- Improved Border Infrastructure: Building fencing, surveillance systems, and strengthening outposts can deter infiltration and transborder crimes.
- Intelligence Sharing: Enhanced cooperation with neighboring countries for real-time intelligence exchange and joint operations.
- Socio-Economic Development in Border Areas: Addressing poverty and lack of opportunities can reduce support for insurgent groups and illegal activities.
- Capacity Building of Security Forces: Providing advanced training and equipment to security forces for effective border management and counter-terrorism.
Conclusion: Securing India’s borders with Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Pakistan requires a multi-pronged approach. By effectively utilizing security forces, fostering regional cooperation, and addressing root causes, India can create a more secure environment for its citizens.
Q12. What are the determinants of left-wing extremism in the Eastern part of India? What strategy should Government of India, civil administration, and security forces adopt to counter the threat in the affected areas? (2020, 15 Marks)
Ans: Left-wing extremism in Eastern India, perpetrated by groups like CPI (Maoist), is a complex issue with deep roots. Here’s a breakdown of key determinants:
- Socio-economic factors:
- Poverty and lack of development: Underdeveloped regions with high poverty rates, particularly among Adivasi (indigenous) and Dalit (lower caste) communities, create fertile ground for discontent. Lack of access to basic needs like healthcare and education fuels frustration.
- Land alienation and displacement: Failed land reforms and resource exploitation by corporations displace tribals from their ancestral lands, stripping them of livelihood and cultural identity.
- Social exclusion: Marginalization of tribal communities based on ethnicity and caste creates a sense of powerlessness and vulnerability.
- Political factors:
- Weak governance: Lack of government presence in remote areas creates a vacuum, allowing extremist groups to establish influence and exploit local grievances.
- Police brutality and corruption: Human rights violations by security forces further alienate the populace and push them towards extremism.
- Historical factors:
- Colonial legacy: Exploitation of tribal resources during the colonial era continues to shape their perception of the state.
Strategies to Counter LWE:
A multi-pronged approach involving the Government of India, civil administration, and security forces is crucial:
- Focus on inclusive development: Invest in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and livelihood generation projects in affected areas, ensuring benefits reach tribal communities.
- Strengthening governance: Enhance government presence through effective administration, addressing corruption, and ensuring tribal rights are protected.
- Police reforms: Sensitize security forces on tribal issues and ensure adherence to human rights. Community policing initiatives can foster trust with the populace.
- Effective intelligence gathering: Improved intelligence networks can help anticipate and pre-empt extremist activities.
- Addressing grievances: Establish dialogue channels to address tribal concerns and offer opportunities for rehabilitation of surrendered extremists.
Civil administration plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between tribals and the state. By delivering essential services, fostering trust, and creating a sense of inclusion, they can counter extremist narratives.
Security forces need a calibrated approach, focusing on intelligence-based operations while minimizing civilian casualties. They can also contribute to development initiatives.
The Government of India should provide adequate resources and facilitate coordination between various stakeholders. Additionally, addressing issues of globalization that exacerbate inequalities can further weaken the appeal of extremism.
By employing a comprehensive strategy that addresses root causes and fosters development alongside security measures, a sustainable solution to LWE in Eastern India can be achieved.
Q13. 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, 15 Marks)
Ans: Naxalism, a communist ideology inspired by Mao Zedong, poses a complex challenge to India’s internal security. Rooted in socio-economic disparities and exploitation of Adivasi (indigenous) communities, it has manifested as a violent insurgency. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach that tackles both the root causes and the security threat.
Emerging Issues:
- Urban Naxalism: The movement’s attempt to infiltrate urban areas to influence students, intellectuals, and activists poses a new challenge.
- Nexus with Criminal Networks: Naxalites forging alliances with criminal gangs for funding and logistics complicates law enforcement efforts.
- Exploitation of Tribal Grievances: Discontent with land acquisition, displacement due to development projects, and lack of basic amenities continues to fuel Naxal recruitment.
- Use of Technology: Naxalites increasingly leverage technology for communication, propaganda, and fundraising, demanding a robust counter-narrative.
Multilayered Strategy:
- Socio-economic Development:
- Focus on Tribal Welfare: Implement affirmative action plans for education, healthcare, and livelihood generation in tribal areas.
- Land Reforms: Ensure timely implementation of land rights legislation and address historical injustices.
- Infrastructure Development: Improve road connectivity, education facilities, and healthcare services in Naxal-affected regions to foster inclusive growth.
- Improved Governance:
- Decentralize Power: Empower Panchayati Raj institutions (local self-governments) to ensure responsive and accountable governance at the grassroots level.
- Bridge the Gap: Address alienation of tribal communities by fostering trust and dialogue with the government.
- Effective Grievance Redressal: Establish transparent and accessible mechanisms for resolving land disputes and other grievances.
- Security Measures:
- Intelligence-based Operations: Enhance intelligence gathering and strengthen coordination between security forces for targeted counter-insurgency measures.
- Community Engagement: Promote public participation in identifying and isolating Naxalite support bases.
- Human Rights Protection: Ensure security operations adhere to human rights principles to avoid alienation of local populations.
- Countering Propaganda:
- Develop a Counter-narrative: Proactively disseminate information highlighting government initiatives and the negative consequences of Naxalite violence.
- Engage with Youth: Address grievances of the youth in affected areas and provide them with educational and employment opportunities.
Conclusion: Naxalism is a complex issue demanding a multilayered response. By addressing social and economic disparities, improving governance, and adopting a rights-based security approach, India can effectively tackle this internal security threat and foster inclusive development in vulnerable regions.
Q14. Winning of ‘Hearts and Minds’ in terrorism-affected areas is an essential step in restoring the trust of the population. Discuss the measures adopted by the Government in this respect as part of the conflict resolution in Jammu and Kashmir. (2023, 10 Marks)
Ans: Winning the ‘hearts and minds’ of the people in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) is crucial for lasting peace and countering terrorism. It signifies a shift from purely military solutions to addressing the root causes of discontent and fostering trust in the government.
Measures Adopted by the Government
- Socio-economic development:
- Infrastructure projects for better connectivity and basic amenities like healthcare and education.
- Skill development initiatives and promoting local businesses to generate employment.
- Investment in agriculture and allied sectors to improve livelihoods.
- Addressing Grievances:
- Proactive outreach programs for dialogue with communities and addressing their specific concerns.
- Ensuring transparency and accountability in security operations, minimizing civilian casualties.
- Addressing human rights violations and promoting the rule of law.
- Confidence-Building Measures:
- Empowering local governments and panchayats to promote participatory democracy.
- Ceasefire agreements and promoting cross-border interactions.
- Cultural exchange programs and promoting interfaith dialogue.
Challenges and the Way Forward
- Ensuring inclusive development that benefits all sections of society.
- Countering the narrative of terrorist groups and promoting peace education.
- Addressing historical grievances and political aspirations.
Conclusion
Winning hearts and minds is a long-term process that requires sustained efforts, sensitivity, and genuine engagement with the people of J&K. It is a vital pillar for lasting peace and a prosperous future for the region.
Q15. The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by our adversaries across borders to ferry arms/ammunition, drugs, etc., is a serious threat to internal security. Comment on the measures being taken to tackle this threat. (2023, 10 Marks)
Ans: The proliferation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in the hands of adversaries poses a significant challenge to India’s internal security. These low-cost, easily maneuverable drones can bypass traditional border security measures, enabling smuggling of arms, ammunition, drugs, and facilitating terrorist activities.
Measures to Tackle the Threat:
- Enhanced Border Surveillance: Deploying advanced radar systems, thermal imaging cameras, and airspace monitoring software to detect unauthorized UAV activity. Integration with artificial intelligence can improve real-time threat assessment.
- Anti-Drone Technologies: Investing in Drone Detection and Defeat Systems (DDDS) that can jam control signals, disrupt flight paths, or physically disable rogue UAVs.
- International Cooperation: Sharing intelligence with neighboring countries to identify and disrupt cross-border drone networks. Collaborative training exercises can enhance response capabilities.
- Strengthening Legal Framework: Developing and enforcing stricter legislation to regulate drone ownership, operation, and penalize misuse. This can include mandatory registration, geofencing around sensitive areas, and stricter penalties for illegal drone activity.
- Community Awareness: Sensitizing border communities about the threat posed by UAVs and encouraging them to report suspicious activity.
Challenges and the Way Forward:
- Rapid Technological Advancements: UAV technology is constantly evolving, making it challenging to keep pace with countermeasures. Continuous upgradation of detection and disruption technologies is crucial.
- Balancing Security and Privacy: Deployment of surveillance systems must be balanced with upholding citizen privacy concerns.
- Evolving Tactics of Adversaries: Adversaries may adapt drone tactics to counter detection efforts. Continuous improvement of intelligence gathering and adapting counter-drone strategies are vital.
Conclusion: Countering the threat posed by UAVs requires a multi-pronged approach. By investing in advanced technologies, fostering international cooperation, and strengthening legal frameworks, India can effectively safeguard its internal security in the face of this evolving threat.
Q16. What are the internal security challenges being faced by India? Give out the role of Central Intelligence and Investigative Agencies tasked to counter such threats. (2023, 15 Marks)
Ans: India’s vast territory, diverse population, and geopolitical realities pose a multitude of internal security challenges. Maintaining national integrity and public safety requires a multi-pronged approach involving various central agencies.
Internal Security Challenges:
- Insurgency and Extremism: Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) in central and eastern India, insurgencies in Jammu & Kashmir and the Northeast, and ethno-nationalist movements threaten internal stability.
- Terrorism: Both domestic and transnational terror groups target India, fueled by ideological and geopolitical factors.
- Communal Violence: Religious and social tensions can erupt into violence, disrupting social harmony and economic activity.
- Organized Crime: Mafia gangs, smuggling networks, and drug trafficking pose challenges, often with cross-border linkages.
- Cyber Threats: India’s growing digital infrastructure is vulnerable to cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure and sensitive data.
Central Intelligence and Investigative Agencies:
- Intelligence Bureau (IB): The primary intelligence gathering agency, responsible for providing strategic intelligence and threat assessments.
- Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI): Investigates major crimes like corruption, economic offenses, and complex fraud.
- National Investigation Agency (NIA): Focuses on counter-terrorism investigations and coordinates with state agencies.
- Research and Analysis Wing (RAW): Gathers external intelligence and conducts covert operations abroad.
Role of Agencies in Countering Threats:
- Intelligence Gathering and Sharing: Central agencies collect, analyze, and disseminate intelligence to security forces and state governments, enabling proactive measures.
- Investigation and Prosecution: Investigative agencies like CBI and NIA probe crimes, gather evidence, and facilitate prosecution of perpetrators.
- Counter-Terrorism Operations: The NIA and state police forces work together to counter terrorist activities, disrupt networks, and prevent attacks.
- International Cooperation: Intelligence sharing and joint operations with international partners are crucial to tackle transnational threats.
Challenges and Reforms:
- Inter-Agency Coordination: Improved coordination between central and state agencies, as well as intelligence sharing, is vital.
- Modernization and Training: Equipping agencies with advanced technology, forensic capabilities, and cyber expertise is crucial.
- Respect for Human Rights: Security measures must be balanced with upholding fundamental rights and addressing the root causes of unrest.
Conclusion: Central intelligence and investigative agencies play a pivotal role in safeguarding India’s internal security. By enhancing their capabilities and fostering cooperation, India can effectively counter diverse security threats and ensure a stable environment for its citizens.
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