Internal Security - 1 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Limits and borders: On the territorial jurisdiction of the Border Security Force

Why in News?

The Supreme Court is set to review the expansion of the Border Security Force's (BSF) jurisdiction as mandated by the Central Government. This decision arises from a notification issued in October 2021, which amended the BSF Act, 1968, to extend the force's operational reach from 15 km to 50 km from the international border. The Punjab Government has challenged this extension in the Supreme Court, arguing it infringes on state powers and violates federal principles.Key issues to be examined include the constitutionality of the notification, the arbitrary exercise of power by the Central Government, and the implications for local governance and law enforcement.

Background of Jurisdiction Expansion:

• The Central Government's notification in October 2021 amended the BSF Act, 1968.
• This change increased BSF jurisdiction from 15 km to 50 km along the international borders in Punjab, West Bengal, and Assam.
• In Gujarat, the jurisdiction was reduced from 80 km to 50 km, while it remained unchanged in Rajasthan.

Legal Challenge by Punjab Government:

• Punjab filed a suit under Article 131 of the Constitution against the Union Government's decision.
• Article 131 grants the Supreme Court the power to resolve disputes between the Government of India and states.

Examination of Issues:

• A three-judge bench will review the following concerns:
• Whether the BSF's jurisdiction increase is an arbitrary exercise of power under the BSF Act.
• Consideration of what constitutes the "local limits" of areas adjoining India's borders.
• Whether all states should receive equal treatment in determining local limits.
• The challenge to the constitutionality of the October 11, 2021, notification in an original suit.

About BSF (Border Security Force):

• The BSF is India's primary border guarding organization, established on December 1, 1965.
• It operates along the Indo-Pakistan and Indo-Bangladesh borders, as well as in anti-Naxal operations.
• The BSF is one of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Powers of BSF:

• In 1969, BSF was granted powers to arrest and search under the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) concerning specific laws.
• Responsibilities include combating smuggling, illegal entry of foreigners, and enforcing various central laws.

Centre’s Notification of 2011:

• The October 2021 amendment expanded BSF's authority for search and seizure from 15 km to 50 km along international borders in several states.
• Section 139(1)(i) of the BSF Act empowers the Central Government to assign duties to BSF members under relevant central acts.

Impact of Extended Jurisdiction:

• The expanded jurisdiction enhances BSF's operational efficiency in combating trans-border crimes.
• It aims to standardize operations across border states, allowing the BSF to function within a uniform 50 km radius.
• While BSF lacks the authority to investigate or prosecute, it collaborates closely with local police.

Concerns Regarding Jurisdiction Extension:

• States argue the extension threatens federalism and infringes on their law enforcement powers.
• There are fears of the Central Government interfering in state law and order, particularly in sensitive border areas.
• Past Supreme Court rulings emphasized that deployment of armed forces cannot override state powers.

Way Forward

• Promoting collaborative federalism is essential for enhancing police capacity and cooperation between BSF and state police.
• Utilizing technology for smart border management can improve communication and coordination among security agencies.
• Reforming police forces to address contemporary security challenges is crucial, as many states face significant resource shortages.
• Establishing institutional support through inter-state councils can facilitate better dialogue between the Center and states.

GREY-ZONE WARFARE

Why in the News?

India's Chief of Defence Staff emphasized the significance of grey-zone warfare during discussions about informal conflicts at the 9th edition of the Raisina Dialogue. This type of warfare is currently observed in the South China Sea and along India's northern borders. Reports indicate that China is employing grey-zone tactics against Taiwan, while experts from the US and Europe have identified recent actions by Russia and China as prime examples of grey-zone warfare.

Why Grey-zone Warfare is Preferred Over Other Methods?

• The costs associated with conventional warfare have escalated significantly in the nuclear age, making such conflicts risky and expensive.
• Countries with limited resources or power often turn to grey-zone warfare to achieve their national objectives without engaging in direct military conflict.

About Grey-zone Warfare:

• Grey-zone warfare refers to the use of unconventional tactics and strategies that operate below the threshold of traditional warfare.
• Its objective is to undermine an adversary without them recognizing that they are under attack.
• Example: China's "salami slicing" strategy involves gradual territorial acquisition, testing the limits of an opponent's response.
• This form of warfare is often characterized by covert actions that are insidious and lack clear rules, leading to a blurred front line.
• Outcomes of grey-zone actions may take time to manifest, and these strategies can escalate across multiple dimensions, potentially leading to unexpected confrontations.

Key Activities/Components:

• Cyber Operations: Involves activities like hacking, data theft, and spreading misinformation to disrupt critical infrastructure and political systems without causing direct harm. Example: Cyber-attack on Maharashtra's power grid.
• Information Warfare: Utilizes psychological operations to manipulate public opinion and create divisions within the target nation. Examples include propaganda, rumors, and social media manipulation.
• Support to Proxy Forces: Involves aiding non-state actors, insurgents, or militias, allowing adversaries to achieve their goals without direct military involvement. Example: Naxal groups in India receiving foreign support.
• Economic Coercion: Entails imposing sanctions or trade restrictions to weaken the target nation's economy. Example: China's trade restrictions imposed on Australia as a punitive measure.
• Political Subversion: Aims to destabilize political and administrative systems through covert influence in elections and political processes. Example: Alleged Russian interference in the US presidential elections.
• Other Methods: Includes irregular warfare (like guerrilla tactics), legal and diplomatic maneuvering, and military intimidation.

Key Initiatives That Helped India Counter Grey-zone Warfare:

• Improved coordination and effectiveness among the three branches of the Indian armed forces to enhance overall combat capabilities.
• Modernization efforts focus on technology infusion into military operations, with emphasis on various sectors such as infantry, mechanized forces, and air defense.
• The army is leveraging the startup ecosystem through initiatives like iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence).
• Promotion of self-reliance in defense manufacturing through frameworks like the Defence Procurement Procedure (DAP) 2020.
• Cooperation with allied nations, exemplified by agreements like the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) with the US.
• Establishment of the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) to address cybersecurity threats.

Way Forward: Measures to Tackle Grey Zone Warfare

• Formation of Theatre Commands: Establishing theatre commands to streamline resource allocation and ensure unified command.
• Promoting Capability: Prioritizing the enhancement of informational warfare capabilities and establishing Special Operations, Cyber, and Space Commands.
• Active Monitoring and Early Warning Systems: Developing advanced monitoring systems across various domains to detect early signs of grey-zone attempts and respond effectively.
• Deterrence through Capability Demonstration: Regularly showcasing capabilities in cyber, information, and economic domains to deter adversaries from aggressive actions.
• India must communicate clear red lines and potential consequences for unacceptable actions, including countering disinformation and preventing funding to insurgent groups.

It is India’s premier conference on geopolitics and geo-economics, committed to addressing the most critical challenges facing the global community. Hosted by the Observer Research Foundation in partnership with the Ministry of External Affairs, the theme for the 2024 edition is "Chaturanga: Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, Create."

National Terrorism Data Fusion & Analysis Centre

Why in news?

Recently, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has established the National Terrorism Data Fusion & Analysis Centre (NTDFAC). This new center enables the government to gather and compile information on terrorists and their associates from various sources. For the first time, the NIA has compiled details on all known terrorists, including those affiliated with groups such as the Indian Mujahideen, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Khalistani militant organizations.

What is the National Terrorism Data Fusion & Analysis Centre?

• Overview: The NTDFAC has been designed based on the framework of the Global Terrorism Database (GTD) in the United States. The GTD, which is maintained by the National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism (START) at the University of Maryland, serves as a publicly accessible database for analyzing global terrorist incidents.
• Purpose: The NTDFAC functions as a centralized resource for information related to terrorism and the activities of terrorists operating within India.
• Government Directive: In 2023, the Ministry of Home Affairs instructed all state police forces and anti-terror agencies to adopt strategies aimed at preventing the emergence of new terrorist groups.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive Database: The NTDFAC includes an extensive collection of information such as case histories, fingerprints, videos, images, and social media profiles. This creates a detailed overview of individuals involved in terrorist activities.
• Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS): The center integrates the National Automated Fingerprint Identification System (NAFIS), which contains over 9.2 million fingerprint records, facilitating swift and precise identification of individuals based on fingerprint data.
• Face Recognition Technology: Equipped with advanced face recognition capabilities, the NTDFAC can scan images of suspects captured in CCTV footage, aiding in the identification and monitoring of individuals linked to terrorist activities.
• Support for State Police: The NTDFAC is designed not only to assist NIA personnel but also to provide valuable support to state police forces. These forces can access the centralized database to obtain information about terrorists operating within their jurisdictions.

What is the National Automated Fingerprint Identification System (NAFIS)?

• Concept and Management: NAFIS, conceptualized and managed by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), is a nationwide searchable database for crime-related fingerprints.
• Web-Based Application: This system operates as a web-based application, enabling law enforcement agencies to access and manage fingerprint data around the clock.
• Unique Identifier: Each individual arrested for a crime is assigned a unique 10-digit National Fingerprint Number (NFN), which remains associated with them for life, linking different criminal records under various FIRs to the same NFN.
• Integration with CCTNS: NAFIS connects to the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS) database, providing a unique identifier for every arrested individual within this system.
• Real-Time Operations: The NAFIS allows law enforcement agencies to upload, trace, and retrieve fingerprint data in real-time, significantly improving the efficiency of criminal identification processes.
• Replacement of Legacy Systems: NAFIS is the latest version in a series of automated fingerprint identification systems in India, replacing the older FACTS 5.0 system, which was deemed outdated.

India Leads Global Arms Imports Amid Shifting Dynamics

Why in News?

Key Highlights of Recent SIPRI Data

• Arms Importers: During 2019-2023, nine out of the ten largest arms importers were located in Asia, Oceania, or the Middle East, with India, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar leading the pack. Notably, Ukraine emerged as a significant arms importer globally during this timeframe.
• Arms Exporters: The United States, the largest arms exporter, experienced a 17% increase in arms exports between 2014-2018 and 2019-2023. France rose to become the second-largest arms supplier, while Europe accounted for a third of global arms exports, showcasing a robust military-industrial base. Conversely, Russia's arms exports fell dramatically by over 53% during this period.

India’s Arms Import Dynamics:

• Russia continues to be the primary arms supplier to India, providing 36% of its arms imports. However, this marks the first time since 1960-1964 that Russian deliveries accounted for less than half of India's total arms imports.
• India is increasingly sourcing arms from Western nations, such as France and the USA, while also focusing on enhancing its domestic arms manufacturing capabilities to address its defense requirements.

Recent Indian Government Initiatives to Reduce Arms Imports:

About: The Indian Defence sector, which is the second-largest armed force globally, is on the verge of significant transformation. In the Interim Budget for 2024-25, the Defense Ministry received an allocation of ₹6.2 lakh crore, with ₹1.72 lakh crore earmarked for capital expenditures on new procurements, reflecting a 5.78% increase from the previous budget estimates.

Initiatives:

• Positive Indigenisation Lists: The government publishes lists that specify components and subsystems required to be manufactured domestically. The latest Positive Indigenisation List, the 5th edition, consists of 98 items aimed at enhancing indigenous production in the defense sector.
• Increased FDI Limits in the Defence Sector: In 2020, the government raised FDI limits to 74% through the Automatic Route and up to 100% via the Government Route.
• Defence Industrial Corridors: Two dedicated corridors have been established in Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh to promote defense manufacturing. The Uttar Pradesh corridor includes nodes in cities like Agra, Jhansi, and Kanpur, while the Tamil Nadu corridor features nodes in Chennai and Coimbatore.
• Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX): This initiative aims to foster an ecosystem for innovation and technology development in defense and aerospace. It involves various stakeholders, including industries, startups, and R&D institutes, providing them with grants and funding to support projects that address Indian defense needs.
• SRIJAN Portal: This platform serves as a one-stop solution for vendors to discover opportunities for manufacturing defense equipment that was previously imported. It allows Indian companies to express interest in production collaborations posted by Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and other government agencies.

Way Forward

• Defence Innovation Zones: Establishing specific geographical areas as defense innovation zones to provide infrastructure support and regulatory flexibility aimed at attracting startups and high-tech companies in defense.
• Streamlined Procurement Process: Simplifying and expediting the procurement processes for indigenous defense products to encourage local production while implementing transparent and efficient policies favoring domestically manufactured goods.
• Incentivize Indigenous Production: Offering financial incentives, tax benefits, and subsidies to companies engaged in indigenous defense manufacturing, thus creating a supportive ecosystem for startups and small enterprises.
• Boosting Exports: Fostering a robust defense export industry to generate revenue for further research and development, thereby reducing reliance solely on domestic funding, similar to the successful model employed by Israel.

Role of the Internet in Drug Trafficking

Why in news?

Recently, the International Narcotics Control Board in its 2023 Annual Report, highlighted that online has increased the availability of drugs on the illicit market.

Key Highlights of the Annual Report by the International Narcotics Control Board

Regional Drug Supply Trends:

• In Afghanistan, there has been a significant decrease in the cultivation of illicit opium poppy and heroin production.
• The opioid crisis remains severe in North America, with deaths involving synthetic opioids (excluding methadone) surpassing 70,000 in 2021.
• Drug trafficking organizations are broadening their activities in the Amazon Basin, engaging in illegal mining, logging, and wildlife trafficking.
• Colombia and Peru have experienced record increases in coca bush cultivation, rising by 13% and 18% respectively.
• Cocaine seizures in West and Central Africa reached unprecedented levels in 2021, making it a key transit area for cocaine.
• South Asia is increasingly targeted for methamphetamine trafficking, with drugs manufactured in Afghanistan being shipped to Europe and Oceania.
• Pacific island nations have evolved from mere transit points to destination markets for synthetic drugs, creating substantial public health challenges.

• The landscape of online drug trafficking is continuously evolving, presenting new challenges for drug control efforts.
• The rise in the availability of illicit drugs on the Internet and the exploitation of online platforms by criminal groups pose significant risks, including increased overdose deaths from synthetic opioids like fentanyl.

• Criminals are utilizing legitimate e-commerce sites, social media, and various online platforms for drug trafficking purposes.
• Methods such as encryption, anonymous browsing on the darknet, and the use of cryptocurrencies are employed to evade law enforcement, complicating prosecutions for online drug offenses.
• In a significant operation, French law enforcement gathered over 120 million text messages from 60,000 mobile phones.

• Illicit Internet pharmacies pose threats to patient safety by selling drugs without prescriptions, leaving consumers unable to verify the legitimacy of these drugs.
• The global illicit pharmaceutical trade is estimated to be worth around 4.4 billion USD.

Recommendations:

• Despite existing challenges, there are opportunities to leverage online platforms for drug prevention, awareness campaigns, and enhancing access to treatment services.
• Governments can utilize social media to conduct drug prevention campaigns aimed particularly at youth to curb substance misuse.
• Telemedicine and online pharmacies could facilitate better healthcare access and deliver treatment services to individuals with drug use disorders.
• Online platforms can also be effective for disseminating information about the dangers of drug use and alerting users to counterfeit drugs, which can be lifesaving.
• Implementing international controls on specific precursor chemicals for amphetamines and fentanyl can help prevent illicit manufacturers from using alternative substances.
• Due to the global nature of online platforms, collaborative efforts among governments, international organizations, regulatory bodies, and the private sector are vital to identify emerging threats and create effective responses.
• The INCB encourages voluntary cooperation to combat the misuse of legitimate e-commerce platforms for drug trafficking.

What are the Initiatives Taken by India to Curb the Drug Menace?

The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985:

• This act prohibits the production, possession, sale, purchase, transportation, storage, and consumption of any narcotic drug or psychotropic substance.
• The National Fund for Control of Drug Abuse was established under the NDPS Act, 1985, to cover expenses related to its implementation.

National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction:

• The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has developed a Drug Demand Reduction plan for 2018-25, focusing on preventive education, awareness, identification, counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation for drug-dependent individuals.
• This plan also involves training and capacity building for service providers through collaborative efforts with NGOs and government bodies.

Nasha Mukt Bharat Campaign (NMBA):

• Launched in 2020, NMBA aims to combat substance abuse with a vision of a drug-free India.
• This initiative employs a three-pronged strategy that includes:
  (a) Supply reduction through the Narcotics Control Bureau.
  (b) Outreach, awareness, and demand reduction efforts by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
  (c) Treatment services coordinated by the Health Department.

International Treaties and Conventions to Combat Drug Menace:

India is a signatory to several key international treaties and conventions, including:

• United Nations (UN) Convention on Narcotic Drugs (1961).
• UN Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (1988).
• UN Convention on Psychotropic Substances (1971).
• UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) 2000.

Conclusion

• Addressing drug trafficking requires comprehensive strategies that include law enforcement, international cooperation, border control measures, and robust demand reduction initiatives.
• By addressing both the supply and demand aspects of the illicit drug trade, governments and communities can collaborate to alleviate its adverse effects and protect public health and safety.