The Government of India on Monday unveiled its first comprehensive counter-terrorism policy, “Prahaar”, aimed at adopting a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism. The policy introduces a seven-pillar strategy focusing on intelligence-led prevention, swift response, disrupting terror financing, countering misuse of technology, strengthening borders, safeguarding human rights, and enhancing global cooperation to tackle evolving and cross-border threats.
Key Pillars of Prahaar
- Prevention: Proactive, intelligence-guided operations using platforms like the Multi Agency Centre and Joint Task Force on Intelligence under the Intelligence Bureau.
- Response: Local police designated as first responders, supported by specialised forces like NSG and CAPFs, with investigations led by the NIA.
- Internal Capacities: Modernisation and capacity building of security agencies, advanced technology, training, and unified counter-terror structures across states.
- Human Rights & Rule of Law: Adherence to legal safeguards under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and other criminal laws.
- Addressing Conditions Enabling Terrorism: Counter-radicalisation programs, engagement with community leaders and NGOs, and socio-economic measures to tackle poverty and social exclusion.
- Global Anti-Terror Alignment: International cooperation through extradition treaties, mutual legal assistance, joint working groups, and partnerships with private sector and tech firms.
- Recovery & Resilience: Civil society, medical professionals, psychologists, and legal experts to aid communities post-attacks.
Key Focus Areas
- Terrorists are increasingly exploiting social media, encrypted platforms, drones, robotics, cyber tools, and CBRNED materials for operations.
- Intelligence-driven disruption of terror networks and funding channels remains a priority.
- Securing critical sectors like power, railways, aviation, ports, defence, space, and atomic energy.
- Strict emphasis on rule-of-law, high conviction rates, and dismantling over-ground worker modules.
India’s Position
Prahaar reaffirms that terrorism has no justification, and India does not link terror to any religion, ethnicity, nationality, or civilization. It highlights cross-border terrorism challenges and stresses cooperation with global partners to tackle evolving threats.
Way Forward
The policy calls for continuous legal reforms, technological investment, and inter-agency coordination. With Prahaar, India seeks to strengthen national and global mechanisms against terrorism while ensuring human rights, legal safeguards, and community resilience.