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Transnational Organised Crime

Why in News?

Recently, the leaders of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), Interpol, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) have highlighted the critical need to enhance efforts in combating the vast illegal profits generated by transnational organized crime (TOC). Furthermore, recent disclosures from the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), which operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), have unveiled the rising threat of cybercrime targeting Indian citizens.

What is Transnational Organised Crime?

• Definition: Organized crime refers to illegal activities conducted by groups or networks collaborating, often characterized by violence, corruption, and related actions aimed at securing financial or material gains.
• Transnational Organised Crime (TOC): This occurs when criminal activities or groups operate across multiple countries.

Different Forms:

• Money Laundering: This involves concealing financial assets to utilize them without detection of the illegal activities that generated them. It is estimated that globally, money laundering accounts for 2% to 5% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), approximating USD 800 billion to USD 2 trillion annually.
• Drug Trafficking: This remains the most profitable criminal enterprise, with global drug trafficking valued at USD 650 billion, representing 30% of the overall illicit economy.
• Human Trafficking: A global crime exploiting individuals for sexual or labor exploitation, generating annual profits of around USD 150 billion, affecting approximately 25 million victims worldwide, with 80% in forced labor and 20% in sex trafficking.
• Smuggling of Migrants: A highly organized business moving individuals across borders, generating USD 6.6 billion in 2009 through the illegal transport of 3 million migrants from Latin America to North America.
• Illicit Firearms Trafficking: This involves the illegal trade of small arms, explosives, and ammunition, contributing approximately USD 170 million to USD 320 million annually.
• Trafficking in Natural Resources: The illegal trade of non-renewable resources, wildlife, and forestry products, often termed "environmental crime." The trade in elephant ivory and rhino horn in Asia was estimated at USD 75 million in 2010.
• Fraudulent Medicines: This includes counterfeit drugs and those diverted from legal supply chains, leading to severe health risks and resistance to treatments for infectious diseases.
• Cybercrime and Identity Theft: Criminals use the Internet to steal personal data, access bank accounts, and fraudulently obtain payment card information.

What is the Impact of Transnational Organized Crime?

• Global Public Health: Counterfeit medicines, prevalent in low- and middle-income nations, can cause significant harm, resulting in over 1 million deaths annually, with the WHO estimating that 200,000 of those deaths occur in Africa.
• Resilient and Inclusive Global Economy: Money laundering undermines financial integrity and public financing, obstructing economic development and draining foreign exchange reserves, affecting economic stability.
• Planet Health: Environmental crime leads to deforestation, biodiversity loss, and increased carbon emissions, contributing to climate change.
• International Peace and Security: The illegal arms trade exacerbates armed conflicts and violent crime, with organized crime-related violence often surpassing casualties from armed conflicts in certain regions.
• Local Effects: While TOC poses a global threat, its repercussions are felt locally, destabilizing nations and regions, increasing crime rates, and burdening public security resources.

Why is it Crucial to Target Illicit Profits?

• Sustainable Development Goals: Targeting illicit profits can disincentivize criminal activities, positively influencing the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.
• Disrupts Criminal Activities: Cutting off financial gains from illegal actions hampers criminals' ability to fund their operations and maintain networks.
• Promotes Rule of Law: Confiscating illicit profits reinforces the rule of law, illustrating that crime is not profitable.
• Aids Development Goals: Redirecting seized illicit funds towards legitimate uses can bolster economic growth and development initiatives.
• Enhances Global Security: Addressing money laundering and terrorism financing helps safeguard international peace and security.
• Safeguards Vulnerable Populations: Targeting illicit profits aids in protecting populations often exploited by criminal activities.
• International Cooperation: Encourages collaborative international efforts in combating TOC and terrorism financing.

What are the Challenges Regarding Controlling TOC?

• Diverse Legal Systems: Different legal frameworks across nations complicate the fight against TOC.
• Lack of Consensus: Achieving a global agreement on TOC strategies is challenging due to differing national priorities.
• Corruption: TOC often intertwines with corruption, undermining law enforcement and governance.
• Technological Advancements: Criminals exploit technology, outpacing law enforcement capabilities.
• Armed Conflict: TOC can intensify violence and instability in conflict regions, complicating control efforts.

Way Forward

• Blockchain Forensics: Utilize blockchain technology to trace illicit cryptocurrency flows and dismantle money laundering networks.
• Dark Web Infiltration: Establish specialized units to navigate the dark web and gather intelligence on TOC operations.
• Transparency Initiatives: Promote transparency in government institutions to minimize bribery and collusion opportunities.
• Political Will: Develop a comprehensive understanding of TOC's impact on global public goods and foster political will for international cooperation.
• Real-Time Fusion Centers: Create centers for immediate collaboration among law enforcement and intelligence agencies to address organized crime swiftly.

Indian Navy Sheds Colonial Legacy

Why in News ?

Recently, the Indian Navy has made notable advancements to eliminate its British colonial influences by renaming traditional naval symbols and adopting new insignias. This change reflects India's commitment to reshaping its naval identity to better align with its national heritage and aspirations.

Recent Changes in Nomenclature:

• The Indian Navy has replaced the term ‘Jack’ with ‘National Flag’ and ‘Jackstaff’ with ‘National Flag Staff’ to promote indigenization and national pride.

Old Terms and Their Origins:

• Terms like 'Jack' and 'Jackstaff' originate from British naval history and have been adopted globally, including in India, as remnants of colonial naval practices.
• The term ‘Jack’ refers to a flag, while ‘Jackstaff’ denotes the short pole at the bow of a ship where this flag is displayed.

Regulatory Framework and Legal Amendments:

• The changes in terminology were formalized through an amendment to the "Regulations for the Navy (Ceremonial, Conditions and Service and Miscellaneous Regulation) 1963," under the authority of the Naval Act of 1957.

Other Symbolic Changes Across the Armed Forces:

• Changes in Naval Insignia:
  • In September 2022, the Indian Navy unveiled a new naval ensign, moving away from the British-inspired George's Cross to a design featuring a blue octagon with golden borders, the national emblem, and the motto ‘Satyamev Jayate’.
  • This new insignia is inspired by the seal of Shivaji Maharaj, symbolizing the Navy's capability to operate in all eight directions.
• Change in Epaulettes of Naval Officers:
  • The Indian Navy has introduced new epaulettes for senior officers, inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's seal, marking a departure from colonial traditions and celebrating India's maritime heritage with five modifications tailored for the navy chief, vice admirals, and rear admirals.
• New Dress Code in Messes:
  • The Navy has embraced its cultural roots by incorporating the Kurta-Pyjama into its mess dress code, with senior officers being among the first to wear this traditional attire.
• Changes in Indian Army:
  • The Indian Army has also started moving away from colonial practices, including phasing out horse-drawn buggies at events and retirement ceremonies, as well as eliminating pipe bands during dinners.
• Significance:
  • The renaming and redesigning of naval symbols signify a conscious effort to distance from colonial legacies while reaffirming Indian sovereignty and maritime heritage.
  • These initiatives align with the Prime Minister's "Panch Pran" pledges, which aim for the country's development by its 100th year of independence.

Issue of Naga Insurgency

Why in News ?

This editorial analysis is based on the article "The search for an end to the complex Naga conflict" which was published in The Hindu on 8 of September 2020. It analyses the issue of Naga insurgency and the issues related to it.The Naga peace process appears to have again hit a roadblock after decades of negotiations. The non-flexibility of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM) on the “Naga national flag” and “Naga Yezhabo (constitution) among many more are said to be the primary reasons. But the issue is more complex than the twin conditions, as it affects Nagaland’s neighbours in northeast India.

How did it start?

• The Naga Hills became part of British India in 1881.
• The Naga Club was formed in 1918 to unite the scattered Naga tribes.
• In 1929, the Naga Club rejected the Simon Commission, asserting their right to self-determination.
• This club evolved into the Naga National Council (NNC) in 1946.
• Under Angami Zapu Phizo's leadership, the NNC declared Nagaland independent on August 14, 1947.
• A referendum in May 1951 claimed 99.9% support for a "sovereign Nagaland."
• Phizo formed the underground Naga Federal Government (NFG) and Naga Federal Army in 1952.
• The Indian Army intervened to suppress the insurgency, leading to the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act in 1958.
• The Shillong Accord of 1975 resulted in some factions agreeing to disarm.
• A faction led by Thuingaleng Muivah rejected this accord and formed the NSCN in 1980.
• The NSCN split into NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K) in 1988.

The History of Peace Process:

• In June 1947, Assam Governor signed a Nine-Point Agreement with moderates in the NNC, which was rejected by Phizo.
• A 16-point Agreement in July 1960 led to the creation of Nagaland on December 1, 1963.
• A Peace Mission in April 1964 aimed at an agreement but was abandoned in 1967.
• The Shillong Accord was signed in 1975 but faced rejection from factions leading to the formation of NSCN.

Naga Peace Process Under Different Prime Ministers:

• The Nagas demanded sovereignty before India's independence, which was rejected by Nehru.
• Indira Gandhi offered "anything but independence," further agitating the Nagas.
• P.V. Narasimha Rao's government initiated secret talks with NSCN-IM.
• H.D. Deve Gowda continued these dialogues.
• Indra Kumar Gujral reached a ceasefire agreement, but it did not lead to lasting peace.
• Atal Bihari Vajpayee acknowledged the unique situation of the Nagas and established a ceasefire monitoring group in 2001.
• Manmohan Singh attempted negotiations without conclusive results.
• The 2015 Naga Peace Accord with NSCN-IM was hailed as historic, yet a final agreement remains elusive.

The Hurdle:

• Key demands include recognition of Naga sovereignty, integration of Naga-speaking areas, and the establishment of a separate constitution and flag.
• NSCN (IM) has moderated its demands to seek greater autonomy within the Indian constitutional framework.
• Negotiations are complicated by demands for territorial integration, which Assam, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh oppose.
• Managing the weapons held by NSCN-IM is another challenge; many members carry weapons outside designated camps.
• The Naga insurgents have historically received support from external adversaries, complicating security efforts.

Immediate Stalemate:

• Recent comments by the Governor regarding law and order issues have caused tensions.
• Extortion practices by insurgent groups have intertwined with developmental activities in Nagaland.
• Some locals criticize the Governor's approach, arguing it reduces the issue to mere law enforcement rather than addressing political roots.
• The Central Government's view of Nagaland as a "disturbed area" continues to influence the situation.

Way Forward

• The Centre must engage all factions of insurgents to ensure lasting peace.
• Negotiations should not favor one group over others to maintain balance in the peace process.
• Recognition of the cultural and historical diversity of the Naga people is essential for lasting solutions.
• Decentralization of powers to tribal leaders alongside a minimal centralized governance structure could facilitate governance and development.
• Any peace framework must respect state territorial boundaries to avoid conflicts with Assam, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh.
• Greater autonomy for Naga areas in surrounding states should include dedicated budget allocations for cultural and developmental needs.
• A new body is needed to safeguard the rights of Nagas in other northeastern states.
• Most global armed insurgencies resolve through compromise rather than complete victory or defeat.

Inter-Services Organisations Act

Why in News?

Recently, the Government has notified the Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs) (Command, Control, and Discipline) Act empowering the Commander-in-Chief or Officer-in-Command of Inter-services Organisations to manage personnel from all branches of the military, streamlining operations and fostering collaboration.

What are the Key Features of the Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs) Act?

• Background: Currently, the Armed Forces operate under distinct Service Acts like the Army Act of 1950, the Navy Act of 1957, and the Air Force Act of 1950. However, the diverse nature of these acts has sometimes posed challenges in maintaining uniform discipline, coordination, and expeditious proceedings across the inter-service establishments. The ISO Act does not propose any alteration to the existing service acts, rules, or regulations.
• Empowering ISO Leadership: The Act grants Commanders-in-Chief and Officers-in-Command of ISOs the authority to exercise disciplinary and administrative control over service personnel under their command, regardless of their specific branch (Army, Navy, Air Force). This simplifies the command structure and ensures efficient decision-making within ISOs.
• Constituting and Classifying ISOs: Existing ISOs like the Andaman and Nicobar Command, Defence Space Agency, and National Defence Academy will be formally recognised under the Act. The central government may constitute an ISO which has personnel belonging to at least two of the three services: the army, the navy, and the air force. An ISO will be placed under the command of an Officer-in-Command. A Joint Services Command (tri-service) can also be formed, which will be placed under the command of a Commander-in-Chief.
• Applicability and Qualifications: The Act can be extended to other centrally controlled forces beyond the Army, Navy, and Air Force. It outlines the eligibility criteria for Officers-in-Command, specifying high-ranking officers from each service.
• Control and Commanding Officer: The central government retains ultimate authority over ISOs and can issue directives related to national security, administration, and public interest. It establishes the Commanding Officer position, responsible for a specific unit, ship, or establishment within an ISO. They will carry out duties assigned by the higher leadership and have the authority to initiate disciplinary or administrative actions concerning personnel under their command.

What is the Significance of Integration of Armed Forces?

• Enhanced Operational Effectiveness: Joint planning and training foster better coordination and understanding between services, which is crucial for modern warfare. For example, the 2024 initiative empowers the leadership of ISOs to execute a unified command.
• Faster Decision-Making: Streamlined command structures within integrated units allow for quicker decision-making on the battlefield. Established in 2019, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) serves as a single-point military advisor to the government, facilitating better coordination in defence planning and procurement.
• Optimum Resource Utilisation: The integration reduces duplication of efforts and optimises resource allocation across all services. The creation of integrated theatre commands aims to streamline planning, logistics, and operations.

Conclusion

The process of integration of Indian armed forces has been a long-term vision, and past steps seem to be in the right direction. Additionally, the inclusion of modern warfare systems similar to China’s information support force, cyberspace force, or the USA’s space forces can enhance India’s defence-related capabilities to meet modern warfare needs and challenges.

25 Years of Kargil War

Why in the News ?

India is commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Kargil War victory, marking the success of Operation Vijay. This operation was initiated by the Indian Army in response to the infiltration of Pakistani soldiers and militants into the Kargil district of Kashmir. Additionally, the Indian Air Force undertook 'Operation Safed Sagar' to target Pakistani troops stationed on elevated positions, while the Indian Navy conducted 'Operation Talwar' to monitor Pakistan's naval presence in the Arabian Sea. Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed each year on July 26 to honor the achievements of Operation Vijay.

About Kargil War

• War Theatre: The conflict occurred in the Kargil district of Kashmir, spanning a high-altitude frontier of 170 km near the Line of Control (LoC). Key battle sites included Tololing, Tiger Hill, Batalik, Drass, Mushkoh Valley, Kaksar, and Chorbat La.
• Commencement of War: The war started shortly after the Lahore Declaration was signed in 1999, when the Pakistan Army covertly occupied posts in Kargil that had been vacated by the Indian Army to prevent casualties.

Reasons for Pakistan’s Intrusion into India

• Politico-strategic Motives: Pakistan aimed to internationalize the Kashmir issue as a nuclear flashpoint, necessitating third-party intervention. They sought to alter the sanctity of the Line of Control (LoC) and gain a favorable position for negotiations regarding Siachen.
• Military Objectives: The intention was to disrupt the Srinagar-Leh road, affecting essential supplies to Leh, and to compromise India's defenses in Turtuk and Siachen.
• Boosting Militancy: By diverting troops to Kargil, Pakistan aimed to weaken India's counter-insurgency efforts in Jammu and Kashmir and enhance the morale of militants.

Shortcomings in India's Defense Architecture Contributing to the Kargil War

• Intelligence Failures: The Indian government failed to anticipate the likelihood of conflict soon after the Lahore Declaration, resulting in a significant intelligence oversight.
• Technological Deficiencies: Earlier detection of the Pakistani intrusion could have been possible with enhanced satellite imagery and better Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) capabilities.
• Resource Constraints: A decline in defense spending hindered the modernization of equipment and systems.
• Lack of Comprehensive Security Policy: There was no coherent security strategy that addressed the evolving threat landscape, including proxy wars and nuclear developments in the region.

Suggestions from the Kargil Review Committee (KRC) to Reinforce India’s Defense Architecture

• Strengthen the National Security Council and appoint a full-time National Security Adviser (NSA).
• Enhance satellite imagery and UAV capabilities.
• Create an organization focused on electronic and communication intelligence, akin to the U.S. National Security Agency.
• Empower the Joint Intelligence Committee (JIC) and reduce the age profile of the army to manage the pension burden.
• Establish a committee to address border management issues effectively.
• Publish war histories and declassify documents to clarify facts for the public.
• Foster synergy between military operations and media communication.
• Develop civil-military liaison mechanisms at various command levels.

Major Initiatives Taken to Strengthen India’s Defense Architecture

• Intelligence Reforms: The Task Force on Intelligence led to the establishment of the National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO) in 2004, aimed at protecting national infrastructure and addressing cyber threats.
• Multi Agency Centre (MAC): This facility was created to facilitate daily information sharing among all intelligence agencies.
• Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA): A tri-service intelligence organization now operates within the MAC.
• Technological Advancements: The RISAT-2 satellite was launched, providing all-weather imaging capabilities.
• National Security Management: The National Security Council (NSC) has been reformed to adopt a comprehensive governmental approach, with the NSA playing a pivotal role.
• Nuclear Command Authority: Established in 2003, this body is responsible for overseeing nuclear weapon deployment, chaired by the Prime Minister.
• Chief of Defence Staff (CDS): Created in 2019, the CDS serves as the Permanent Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee.
• Defence Modernization: Initiatives like the Agnipath Scheme focus on balancing young and seasoned personnel in the armed forces.
• Ordnance Factory Corporatization: This aims to enhance efficiency and autonomy in weapon production.
• Indigenous Defence Production: Policies such as DAP 2020 and the Positive Indigenisation List promote local defense manufacturing.
• Border Management Strategies: The Task Force on Border Management has introduced smart fencing techniques and infrastructure development along borders.
• Vibrant Village Programme: Launched in 2023, this initiative aims for comprehensive development of villages near the northern border.
• Infrastructure Development: Projects like the Atal Tunnel and the Shinku-La tunnel are designed to ensure year-round access to remote areas.

Conclusion

Since the Kargil War, the nature of warfare has evolved significantly, with increased use of irregular combat methods by non-state entities and advancements in cyber and space technologies. Consequently, Indian armed forces must adapt to prepare for potential future conflicts that may be more violent and unpredictable.