Question.
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.
(UPSC 2023 General Studies Paper 3 (Main) Exam, Answer in 150 words)
Answer.
India faces various internal security challenges due to its long land border, long maritime boundary, hostile neighbors, a multi-ethnic society, and drug vulnerability ( India is located between two drug hotspots, the Golden Crescent, and the Triangle). Several Central intelligence and investigative agencies play crucial roles in countering these threats.
Some of the major internal security challenges are as follows:
Insurgency and illegal migration:
The northeastern part faces internal security challenges due to insurgency and illegal migration.
Naxalism:
Left-wing extremism ( LWE) is a major internal security threat in Central India, which is affected by Naxalite movements.
Radicalization of Individuals through social media and the spread of extremist ideologies present challenges to maintaining internal peace and security.
Terrorism:
Jammu and Kashmir is an active region of terrorism activities, which poses challenges to internal security.
Cyber Threats:
The increasing dependence on digital infrastructure exposes India to cyber threats, including hacking, and cyber attacks on critical infrastructure.
Communal and Ethnic Tensions:
Communal and ethnic tensions lead to incidents of violence, which harm social harmony.
The following are key Central Intelligence and investigative Agencies, that play important role in countering internal threats:
Intelligence Bureau ( IB):
The Intelligence Bureau ( IB) is responsible for gathering intelligence within the country. It plays a critical role in counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations.
Research and Analysis Wing ( RAW):
Research and Analysis Wing ( RAW) mainly collects external intelligence information, and it often collaborates with the Intelligence Bureau ( IB), to address security challenges with international dimensions.
National Investigation Agency( NIA):
The National Investigation Agency( NIA) is key in investigating and prosecuting terrorism and other crimes.
Central Bureau of Investigation ( CBI):
The Central Bureau of Investigation ( CBI) handles complex cases, including corruption, economic offenses, and special crimes.
Computer Emergency Response Team ( CERT-In):
Computer Emergency Response Team ( CERT-In) is a nodal agency for addressing India's cyber threats.
In summary, these Central Intelligence and Investigative Agencies play a critical role in establishing internal security in India. Additionally, community engagement and proactive measures to address the root causes of these challenges will contribute to long-term stability.
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