What is drones and robotics?
Historical Background
Key Points
12 points- 1.
Drones offer enhanced surveillance capabilities. They can be equipped with high-resolution cameras, thermal imaging, and other sensors to monitor areas of interest, providing real-time intelligence to security forces. For example, drones can patrol borders, monitor large gatherings, or inspect critical infrastructure for potential threats.
- 2.
Robotics provides safer alternatives in hazardous situations. Bomb disposal robots, for instance, allow experts to remotely handle and defuse explosive devices, minimizing the risk to human lives. Similarly, robots can be used to inspect nuclear facilities or handle hazardous materials.
- 3.
Drones can be weaponized for targeted strikes. While controversial, some countries use armed drones to eliminate terrorist threats or conduct precision strikes against enemy targets. This capability raises ethical and legal concerns regarding civilian casualties and the potential for misuse.
- 4.
Robotics enhances security in critical infrastructure. Automated security systems, including robotic guards and surveillance bots, can patrol sensitive areas, detect intrusions, and respond to security breaches more quickly and efficiently than human guards. This is particularly useful in protecting power plants, airports, and other vital facilities.
- 5.
The use of drones and robotics raises privacy concerns. The ability to conduct widespread surveillance using drones equipped with advanced sensors can infringe upon individual privacy rights. Regulations and safeguards are needed to prevent the misuse of these technologies and protect civil liberties.
- 6.
Counter-terrorism agencies need to disrupt terrorist efforts to access and use CBRNED (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosive, Digital) material. Drones and robotics can be used to deliver or deploy such materials, making it crucial to intercept and neutralize these threats.
- 7.
Terrorist groups are increasingly using drones for reconnaissance and attacks. This includes using drones to drop explosives, conduct surveillance of potential targets, and disrupt security operations. Counter-terrorism strategies must address this evolving threat.
- 8.
The Indian government is equipping border guarding forces with state-of-the-art tools and technologies, including drones, to secure its frontiers. This includes deploying drones for border patrol, surveillance, and detection of illegal activities such as smuggling and infiltration.
- 9.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and state police agencies are responsible for investigating terror-related offenses involving drones and robotics. This includes tracking the source of drones, identifying the perpetrators, and prosecuting them under relevant laws.
- 10.
The misuse of the internet for communication, recruitment, and glorification of jihad is countered through proactive disruption of cyber activities. This includes monitoring online networks of terrorist groups and their propaganda, as well as disrupting their use of drones and robotics.
- 11.
The government is engaging a team of doctors, psychologists, lawyers, and other members of civil society to sensitize and reintegrate communities affected by terrorism. This includes addressing the psychological impact of drone attacks and promoting resilience among affected populations.
- 12.
The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, and the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita codes are used to prosecute individuals involved in terrorist activities involving drones and robotics. These laws provide a legal framework for addressing the evolving threats posed by these technologies.
Visual Insights
Drones and Robotics in Counter-Terrorism
Illustrates the various applications of drones and robotics in counter-terrorism efforts, highlighting their benefits and challenges.
Drones & Robotics in Counter-Terrorism
- ●Applications
- ●Benefits
- ●Challenges
- ●Regulatory Framework
Recent Developments
5 developmentsIn 2024, the Ministry of Civil Aviation released updated drone regulations to promote the safe and responsible use of drones in India, focusing on easing operational restrictions and promoting indigenous manufacturing.
In 2025, the Indian Army inducted several advanced robotic systems for surveillance and reconnaissance along the Line of Control (LoC), enhancing its operational capabilities in challenging terrains.
In 2026, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) conducted a nationwide exercise to test the deployment of drones and robotics in disaster response scenarios, highlighting their potential in search and rescue operations.
The 'Prahaar' policy, unveiled in 2026, specifically addresses the misuse of drones and robotics by state and non-state actors, emphasizing the need for enhanced counter-terrorism measures and international cooperation.
The Indian government is investing in research and development of indigenous drone and robotics technologies, aiming to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers and promote self-reliance in the defense and security sectors.
This Concept in News
1 topicsFrequently Asked Questions
61. What's the most common MCQ trap regarding the legal framework for drones in India?
Students often incorrectly assume that all drone-related activities are solely governed by the Aircraft Act, 1934. While it's a key piece of legislation, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 also play crucial roles, especially concerning security and counter-terrorism applications. Examiners often create options that focus only on the Aircraft Act to mislead candidates.
Exam Tip
Remember to consider ALL the relevant acts (Aircraft Act, IT Act, UAPA, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita) when answering questions about drone regulations. Think about the PURPOSE of the drone activity (e.g., surveillance, delivery) to determine which act is most relevant.
2. Drones and robotics are often presented as distinct fields. However, where do they overlap, and why is this overlap significant for security applications?
The overlap lies in autonomous systems. A drone can be considered a flying robot. When drones are equipped with advanced AI, sensors, and autonomous navigation capabilities, they essentially become robotic systems operating in the air. This is significant for security because it allows for:
- •Enhanced surveillance: Autonomous drones can patrol perimeters and detect anomalies without constant human control.
- •Faster response times: Robotic drones can be programmed to automatically respond to security breaches or threats.
- •Reduced human risk: Drones can handle dangerous tasks like bomb disposal or hazardous material inspection, minimizing the risk to human personnel.
3. What are the ethical considerations surrounding the weaponization of drones, and how does India's policy on this compare to other nations?
The weaponization of drones raises serious ethical concerns, primarily regarding the potential for civilian casualties and the lack of transparency in targeted killings. Key considerations include:
- •Proportionality: Ensuring that the military advantage gained from a strike outweighs the potential harm to civilians.
- •Discrimination: Accurately distinguishing between combatants and non-combatants to avoid unintended targets.
- •Accountability: Establishing mechanisms to investigate and address civilian casualties resulting from drone strikes.
4. The 'Prahaar' policy addresses the misuse of drones. What specific types of misuse is it designed to counter, and why are these particularly concerning for India?
The 'Prahaar' policy, unveiled in 2026, specifically targets the misuse of drones and robotics by state and non-state actors. This includes:
- •Terrorist groups using drones for reconnaissance and attacks, including dropping explosives.
- •Smuggling of weapons, drugs, and other contraband across borders using drones.
- •Use of drones for surveillance and intelligence gathering by hostile actors.
- •Potential use of drones to deliver or deploy CBRNED (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosive, Digital) material.
5. What are the limitations of relying solely on drones and robotics for security, and what other measures are necessary to create a comprehensive security strategy?
While drones and robotics offer significant advantages, they are not a panacea. Limitations include:
- •Technological vulnerabilities: Drones and robots can be hacked, jammed, or otherwise compromised.
- •Environmental limitations: Drones are affected by weather conditions, and robots may be limited by terrain.
- •Dependence on infrastructure: Drones require charging stations and robots need maintenance, creating logistical challenges.
- •Ethical and legal constraints: Regulations and public perception can limit the deployment and use of these technologies.
6. How might the increasing reliance on drones and robotics impact the nature of warfare and counter-terrorism operations in the future?
The increasing reliance on drones and robotics could lead to:
- •Asymmetric warfare: Non-state actors and terrorist groups may increasingly use drones to target critical infrastructure or conduct attacks, leveling the playing field against more powerful adversaries.
- •Remote warfare: Conflicts may become more remote, with soldiers operating drones from safe locations, reducing the risk of casualties but also potentially dehumanizing warfare.
- •Data-driven warfare: The vast amounts of data collected by drones and robots could be used to improve targeting, predict enemy behavior, and optimize military strategies.
- •Ethical dilemmas: The use of autonomous weapons systems raises ethical questions about accountability, proportionality, and the potential for unintended consequences.