TERRORISM
Terrorism has evolved from centralised organisations to decentralised and technology-enabled networks. Examine the evolution of India’s counter-terrorism strategy.
Model Answer
Introduction:
Modern terrorism increasingly involves decentralised cells, lone-wolf attacks, drones, cyber tools and AI, requiring a shift from reactive to proactive strategies.
Changing Nature
- Centralised groups → decentralised networks + lone wolves.
- Physical attacks → cyber, drone + technology-enabled threats.
- Growing use of online radicalisation + terror financing.
India’s Strategic Shift:
- Earlier → Reactive approach after attacks such as 1993 Mumbai blasts, Parliament attack and 26/11.
- 2016 → Surgical Strikes → cross-border retaliation.
- 2019 → Balakot → pre-emptive action against terror infrastructure.
- 2025 → Operation Sindoor → stronger deterrence against terror networks.
- 2026 → PRAHAAR → whole-of-government + whole-of-society counter-terror framework.
Way Forward
- Strengthen intelligence + inter-agency coordination.
- Counter drones, cyber threats and online radicalisation.
- Disrupt terror financing.
- Strengthen international cooperation against safe havens.
Conclusion
India must combine deterrence + intelligence + technology + diplomacy + societal resilience to counter the evolving threat of terrorism.