Strengthening Internal Security: Vigilance and Reforms Needed
Recent successes in internal security require sustained effort and continuous reforms.
Editorial Analysis
India has made significant strides in strengthening its internal security, but complacency is not an option. Continuous reforms, improved coordination, and addressing the root causes of unrest are necessary to maintain stability and progress.
Main Arguments:
- India has achieved a big win for internal security by tackling various security challenges, including terrorism, insurgency, and cyber threats.
- There is a need for continuous vigilance and reforms to address evolving security challenges effectively.
- Strengthening intelligence gathering is crucial for proactive threat detection and prevention.
- Improved coordination between different security agencies is essential for a cohesive and effective security apparatus.
- Addressing the root causes of unrest and radicalization is necessary for long-term stability.
Conclusion
Policy Implications
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) unveiled India's first National Counter-Terrorism Policy and Strategy, named 'PRAHAAR', on February 23, 2026. This eight-page document formalizes a unified approach to combat evolving security threats, including cross-border terrorism, drone-based attacks, cyber-enabled threats, and organized terror networks. 'PRAHAAR', meaning "strike", is built upon seven core pillars: prevention, swift response, capacity-building, human rights compliance, addressing radicalization, international cooperation, and societal resilience.
The policy emphasizes intelligence-led operations, coordinated surveillance through institutions like the Multi Agency Centre and the Joint Task Force on Intelligence, and dismantling terror support ecosystems. It also focuses on enhanced protection for critical infrastructure, including power installations, railways, aviation networks, and defence facilities. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) will lead investigations into terror-related offenses, aiming for effective prosecution and high conviction rates. The policy adopts a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, encouraging cooperation between government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and civil society.
Cybercrime data from the MHA reveals a 24% spike in cases during 2025, with Indians losing ₹22,495 crore. Investment scams accounted for 76% of total money lost. Digital arrests (9% of losses) and sextortion (4% of losses) have emerged as fast-growing cybercrimes. The policy calls for periodic legal reforms, strengthened state-level counter-terror frameworks, improved investigative expertise, and enhanced investment in emerging technologies. This initiative is crucial for safeguarding national security and falls under UPSC's Polity & Governance syllabus.
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper 3 (Internal Security): Understanding the challenges to internal security through extremism, terrorism, and cyber warfare.
The news connects to the UPSC syllabus by highlighting the government's efforts to combat terrorism and cybercrime through policy and institutional mechanisms.
Potential question types include analyzing the effectiveness of the UAPA, evaluating the role of the NIA, and assessing the challenges in intelligence coordination.
In Simple Words
Internal security means keeping our country safe from problems inside, like terrorism or riots. It's like having a strong police force and intelligence system to prevent bad things from happening. The goal is to make sure everyone can live peacefully and without fear.
India Angle
In India, internal security affects everyone from farmers to shopkeepers. If there's a terrorist attack or communal violence, it disrupts daily life, businesses, and education. A strong internal security system ensures stability and allows people to carry on with their lives without fear.
For Instance
Think of it like your apartment complex having security guards and CCTV cameras. These measures help prevent theft and ensure the safety of residents. Similarly, internal security measures protect the entire country from internal threats.
Internal security ensures that we can live our lives without fear of violence or disruption. It allows the government to focus on development and progress, rather than constantly fighting internal conflicts.
A safe country starts from within; strong internal security is the foundation for peace and progress.
The article discusses the importance of internal security for India's stability and progress. It acknowledges recent successes in tackling various security challenges, including terrorism, insurgency, and cyber threats. However, the author cautions against complacency and emphasizes the need for continuous vigilance and reforms.
This includes strengthening intelligence gathering, improving coordination between different security agencies, and addressing the root causes of unrest and radicalization. The article also highlights the importance of investing in technology and capacity building to effectively counter emerging security threats. It concludes that maintaining internal security requires a holistic approach, involving not only law enforcement but also social and economic development.
Expert Analysis
The unveiling of 'PRAHAAR' highlights India's commitment to a structured counter-terrorism approach. To fully grasp its significance, several key concepts must be understood.
The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), initially enacted in 1967 and amended in 2004 and 2019, is central to India's counter-terrorism legal framework. It allows for the proscription of terrorist organizations and the detention of individuals deemed a threat to national security. 'PRAHAAR' references the UAPA, indicating its continued relevance in addressing terrorism, particularly in investigations led by the NIA. The Act's provisions for designating individuals as terrorists and restricting their movement and financial activities are critical components of the policy's emphasis on dismantling terror support ecosystems.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA), established in 2008 after the Mumbai terror attacks, is the primary counter-terrorism investigation agency in India. 'PRAHAAR' designates the NIA as the lead agency for investigating terror-related offenses, underscoring its role in ensuring effective prosecution and securing high conviction rates. The NIA's mandate extends to investigating offenses affecting the sovereignty, security, and integrity of India, and its powers include the ability to investigate and prosecute offenses across state lines without requiring prior permission from the state government.
The Multi Agency Centre (MAC), a platform for intelligence sharing among various security agencies, is crucial for coordinated surveillance and threat assessment. 'PRAHAAR' designates MAC as a central node for real-time intelligence sharing, highlighting its importance in preventing terrorist attacks. MAC facilitates the exchange of information between intelligence agencies at the central and state levels, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of threats and facilitating coordinated action. Its effectiveness is vital for the success of intelligence-led operations, a cornerstone of the new policy.
For UPSC aspirants, understanding these concepts is essential for both prelims and mains. Questions may focus on the provisions of the UAPA, the mandate and powers of the NIA, and the role of MAC in intelligence coordination. Mains questions may explore the effectiveness of India's counter-terrorism legal and institutional framework, the challenges in implementation, and the need for reforms.
Visual Insights
Key Highlights from Internal Security Article
Key takeaways from the article on strengthening internal security in India.
- Focus on Vigilance and Reforms
- Continuous
- Holistic Approach Required
- Social & Economic Development
Emphasizes the need for ongoing efforts to maintain internal security.
Highlights the importance of addressing root causes of unrest.
More Information
Background
Latest Developments
In recent years, India has witnessed a rise in cybercrime, with a 24% spike in cases during 2025. Investment scams and digital arrests have emerged as significant threats, leading to substantial financial losses for individuals. The government has taken steps to strengthen its cyber security infrastructure and enhance coordination among law enforcement agencies.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has been actively working to modernize the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and improve their training and equipment. The Committee on Estimates has recommended that states develop their own systems and augment their police forces to reduce dependence on CAPFs for everyday law and order issues. The government has also introduced schemes to increase employability of youth in Jammu and Kashmir, such as Udaan and Himayat.
Looking ahead, the government plans to strengthen state-level counter-terror frameworks, improve investigative expertise, and enhance investment in emerging technologies to counter future threats. The focus will be on dismantling terror ecosystems, safeguarding national security, and ensuring long-term resilience through coordinated and sustained efforts. Periodic legal reforms are also expected to address evolving challenges and strengthen the legal framework for counter-terrorism.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is 'PRAHAAR' being launched now in 2026, considering India has faced internal security challenges for decades?
The timing of 'PRAHAAR' reflects the evolving nature of threats. The rise of cybercrime (24% spike in 2025), drone-based attacks, and sophisticated terror networks necessitate a unified and formalized strategy. Recent successes in internal security likely provided the confidence to codify these approaches into a national policy.
2. How does 'PRAHAAR' differ from existing laws like the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA)? Does it create new legal powers?
'PRAHAAR' doesn't create new legal powers. The UAPA provides the legal framework for dealing with unlawful activities. 'PRAHAAR' is a policy and strategy document that streamlines and coordinates the use of existing legal powers and resources to counter terrorism. It focuses on a unified approach and better coordination between agencies.
3. What is the significance of the name 'PRAHAAR' (meaning 'strike')? Is it intended to signal a more aggressive approach?
The name 'PRAHAAR' signifies a proactive and decisive approach to counter-terrorism. While it implies a 'strike,' the policy emphasizes prevention, capacity-building, and human rights compliance alongside swift response. It suggests a shift towards intelligence-led operations and dismantling terror support networks before attacks occur.
4. How does 'PRAHAAR' address the growing threat of cybercrime and digital fraud, considering the recent spike in cases?
While the policy focuses on counter-terrorism, it acknowledges cyber-enabled threats. It likely aims to enhance cybersecurity infrastructure and improve coordination among law enforcement agencies to combat cybercrime, investment scams, and digital arrests. The policy's emphasis on intelligence-led operations would also apply to cyber threats.
5. What are the seven core pillars of 'PRAHAAR', and which one is likely to be MOST challenging to implement effectively?
The seven pillars are: prevention, swift response, capacity-building, human rights compliance, addressing radicalization, international cooperation, and societal resilience. Addressing radicalization is likely the most challenging due to its complex socio-political roots and the difficulty in identifying and countering extremist ideologies effectively.
6. If UPSC asks a Mains question about 'PRAHAAR', what structure would be best for a 250-word answer?
A good structure would be: * Introduction (30 words): Briefly define 'PRAHAAR' and its objective. * Core Pillars (70 words): List and briefly explain 3-4 key pillars. * Significance (70 words): Explain how it strengthens internal security, focusing on intelligence coordination and addressing new threats. * Challenges (50 words): Briefly mention potential challenges like implementation gaps or human rights concerns. * Conclusion (30 words): Emphasize the need for continuous vigilance and reforms.
7. How does 'PRAHAAR' connect to the existing Multi Agency Centre (MAC)? Will MAC's role change?
'PRAHAAR' emphasizes coordinated surveillance through institutions like the MAC. MAC's role as a platform for intelligence sharing and coordination will likely be strengthened and formalized under the 'PRAHAAR' framework. The policy aims to enhance MAC's effectiveness in intelligence-led operations.
8. What is a likely Prelims MCQ trap related to 'PRAHAAR' that UPSC might set?
UPSC might create a question stating that 'PRAHAAR' is a new law or Act, when it is actually a policy and strategy document. They might also test you on the number of core pillars, offering distractors like 5, 6, or 8 instead of the correct answer, 7. examTip: Remember 'PRAHAAR' is a POLICY, not a law.
9. Will 'PRAHAAR' affect the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs)? How?
Yes, 'PRAHAAR' will likely affect the CAPFs. The MHA has been actively working to modernize the CAPFs and improve their training. 'PRAHAAR' will likely guide the CAPFs' counter-terrorism strategies, operational procedures, and resource allocation, ensuring they align with the national policy.
10. Is 'PRAHAAR' primarily focused on cross-border terrorism, or does it address internal threats as well?
'PRAHAAR' addresses both cross-border terrorism and internal threats. While cross-border terrorism is a major concern, the policy also covers drone-based attacks, cyber-enabled threats, and organized terror networks operating within India. It aims for a comprehensive approach to internal security.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the 'PRAHAAR' policy: 1. It is India's first comprehensive national counter-terrorism policy. 2. It only focuses on cross-border terrorism and neglects cyber threats. 3. It emphasizes a zero-tolerance approach towards terrorism. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.1 and 3 only
- C.2 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statement 1 is CORRECT: 'PRAHAAR' is indeed India's first comprehensive national counter-terrorism policy, unveiled on February 23, 2026. Statement 2 is INCORRECT: The policy addresses a range of threats, including cross-border terrorism, drone-based attacks, and cyber-enabled threats. Statement 3 is CORRECT: The policy reiterates the government's unwavering zero-tolerance approach towards terrorism and violence.
Source Articles
Latest News on Internal Security: Get Internal Security News Updates along with Photos, Videos and Latest News Headlines | The Indian Express
Why India needs an internal security plan for the next five years | The Indian Express
Latest News on India Internal Security: Get India Internal Security News Updates along with Photos, Videos and Latest News Headlines | The Indian Express
Daily Briefing: (Dis)order in the court | Live News - The Indian Express
Amit Shah chairs high-level meet on internal security | India News - The Indian Express
About the Author
Ritu SinghEngineer & Current Affairs Analyst
Ritu Singh writes about Polity & Governance at GKSolver, breaking down complex developments into clear, exam-relevant analysis.
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