Q9. Terrorism is a global scourge. How has it manifested in India? Elaborate with contemporary examples. What are the counter measures adopted by the State? Explain.
Possible Introductions
Definitional framing:
Terrorism refers to the unlawful use of violence and intimidation, especially against civilians, to achieve political, religious, or ideological objectives. It has emerged as one of the gravest global security challenges of the 21st century.
Contextual framing (India):
India, due to its geographical location, ethnic diversity, and porous borders, has faced varied forms of terrorism — from cross-border militancy in Jammu & Kashmir to left-wing extremism in central India.
Current affairs framing:
The UN’s Global Terrorism Index 2025 noted South Asia as one of the most terror-affected regions, with India ranking at the 14th position globally, showing the challenging situation India finds itself in.
Impact oriented:
Terrorism poses a persistent threat to India’s national security and social fabric, mandating continuous and strategic initiatives by the government and the armed forces for countering the menace with an iron hand.
Directive Analysis
“How has it manifested” → requires outlining the different forms/types of terrorism in India with recent examples.
“What are the counter measures” → demands explanation of legislative, institutional, military, and international strategies adopted by the State.
Body of the Answer
1. Manifestations of Terrorism in India
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- Cross-Border Terrorism (Pakistan-based groups): Attacks in Jammu & Kashmir by groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad. Examples: Pulwama attack (2019) killing CRPF personnel; Pahalgam attack (2025) killing tourists.
- Insurgency in the North-East: Groups like ULFA and NSCN engaged in ethnic and secessionist violence. Example: repeated ambushes in Manipur.
- Left-Wing Extremism (LWE): Maoists in the “Red Corridor” target security forces and infrastructure. Example: Dantewada attack (April 2023) killing 10 DRG jawans.
- Religious/Ideological Extremism: Radicalisation linked to ISIS, cases of online recruitment and arrests in Kerala, Telangana.
- Cyber Terrorism: Terror groups misuse social media for radicalisation, propaganda, and recruitment; rising cyberattacks on critical infrastructure.
- Organised Crime Nexus: Criminal syndicates (smuggling, extortion, drugs) funding terror networks.
- Urban Terrorism: High-profile attacks in metros. Example: Mumbai 26/11 (2008) remains iconic; Indian Mujahideen modules still a concern.
X-Factor: “Narco-terrorism” along Punjab border where drug trafficking overlaps with terror funding.
2. Counter-Measures Adopted by the State
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- Legislative Framework: UAPA, NIA Act (2008) empower agencies against terrorism.
- Institutional Mechanisms: Creation of NIA, NATGRID for integrated data and intelligence.
- Operational Strategies: Counter-insurgency ops by Army, CRPF, state police; Operation Sindoor (2025), surgical strikes (2016), Balakot air strikes (2019).
- Technology & Cyber Counter-Terrorism: Drones, satellite monitoring, cyber surveillance to tackle online radicalisation and terror financing.
- International Cooperation: FATF, UN conventions, bilateral pacts with USA, Israel, France to curb terror funding and networks.
- Development & De-radicalisation Measures: Skill programmes in Maoist areas, rehabilitation of surrendered militants, community engagement in Kashmir and NE.
X-Factor: “SAMADHAN” doctrine integrates security, development, and rights-based governance to tackle LWE.
Possible Conclusions
Future-oriented:
While terrorism remains a threat, a mix of hard power, intelligence, diplomacy, and inclusive development can ensure long-term peace.
Policy-oriented:
Strengthening regional cooperation in South Asia and robust internal security reforms are vital for India’s counter-terrorism success.
Further Challenge:
India must also anticipate cyber terrorism, online radicalisation, and socio-economic grievances that fuel recruitment.
Philosophical:
India’s fight against terrorism is not merely about security, but about preserving its democratic and plural ethos against forces of hatred and violence.
