Internal Security

Model Annswer

Introduction

The recent attack on the Indian Air Force (IAF) base in Jammu using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) has raised significant concerns about the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for illicit activities across borders. UAVs, or drones, are increasingly being utilized to smuggle arms, ammunition, and drugs, posing a serious threat to India’s internal security and challenging national security frameworks.

Threats Posed by UAVs

1. Facilitation of Terrorism: UAVs have been linked to the smuggling of arms and ammunition, particularly in border areas like Punjab. This equips militant groups, raising alarms about potential terrorist activities within India.
2. Drug Trafficking: Instances of drones being intercepted while carrying narcotics across the India-Pakistan border have surfaced, exacerbating drug abuse issues, especially in Punjab.
3. Surveillance and Espionage: UAV sightings in Jammu and Kashmir indicate their use for intelligence gathering on military movements, posing significant espionage risks.
4. Safety Hazards: Drones pose risks to civilian aircraft, such as the 2017 incident at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, where a drone flew dangerously close to a commercial flight.
5. Economic Implications: The illicit transport of counterfeit goods and drugs undermines local economies and public health, impacting communities along border areas.
6. Psychosocial Impact: The presence of UAVs near conflict zones increases anxiety among local populations, contributing to a climate of fear regarding potential attacks.

Measures Taken to Tackle This Threat

1. Anti-Drone Technologies: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is developing technologies to jam or disable rogue UAVs, deployed during the 2020 Republic Day celebrations in Delhi.
2. Intelligence Sharing: India collaborates with international agencies like Interpol and the U.S. for monitoring UAV threats, enhancing proactive measures.
3. Legal Framework: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has established guidelines for UAV operations, with strict penalties for violations to ensure compliance.
4. Research and Development: Investments in “soft kill” technologies aim to disable UAVs without causing collateral damage, forming part of a broader initiative to develop indigenous countermeasures.
5. Training and Capacity Building: Special military units, including the National Security Guard (NSG) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), receive training to counter UAV threats effectively.
6. Collaboration with Tech Companies: Partnerships with companies like Tata and Reliance focus on developing geo-fencing technologies to restrict UAV access to sensitive areas.
7. Community Engagement: Local communities, especially in Punjab, are encouraged to report suspicious UAV activities, creating a grassroots security network.

Conclusion

The illicit use of UAVs by adversaries presents a complex threat to India’s internal security. A multi-faceted approach, combining technology, intelligence, legal frameworks, and community engagement, is essential. By implementing these measures, India can effectively address the challenges posed by UAVs while promoting their responsible use.