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Home/upsc: security forces & agencies

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Adivk Rawat
  • 1
Adivk RawatBegginer
Asked: July 13, 2024In:
  • 1

The current Police Act is outdated, superfluous, and out of date. It was designed to safeguard the British Raj. Make appropriate recommendations for establishing accountability and granting autonomy within the police force.

upsc: security forces & agencies
  1. Kirti Sharvan
    Kirti Sharvan Begginer

    Ever since the Police Act was enacted in 1861, there have been few and far reforms to the police system in India. The need for reform is particularly acute as the archaic Police Act of 1861 continues to govern policing, despite far-reaching changes in governance. Several committees were set up by thRead more

    Ever since the Police Act was enacted in 1861, there have been few and far reforms to the police system in India. The need for reform is particularly acute as the archaic Police Act of 1861 continues to govern policing, despite far-reaching changes in governance. Several committees were set up by the Government to look into these reforms. One very important milestone in this regard was Prakash Singh v. Union of India in 2006.

    Police Act 1861: Archaic, Redundant And Anachronistic

    1. The Police Act of 1861 largely governs Indian police forces. The Police Act gives each State Government the power to establish its own police force. The two police functions of the police are maintenance of law and order and investigation of offences.
    2. The existing Police Act was meant to protect the British Raj. The subordination of the police, including investigative agencies to politicians and bureaucrats has threatened the very foundations of democratic functioning of Police.
    3. Overarching powers are given to rulers and colonial nature of police still exist in Indian Police resulting in direct violations of the rights of citizens in the form of unauthorised detentions, torture, harassment, fabrication of evidence, malicious prosecutions, etc.
    4. According to the data on Annual Report on Torture, 2019, 1606 deaths in judicial custody while 125 in police custody. Maximum custodial deaths which happened in a state is Uttar Pradesh.
    5. The custodial death happens behind four walls but, many types of torture can be seen on the street from taking a bribe to Lathicharge. In the lockdown due to COVID-19, we see in the news regularly the barbaric acts purported by the police on the streets.
    6. The police are meant to be a law enforcement agency but, in reality, it is just acting in contrary to it. The moment we see the Police instead of us feeling secure we feel more scared and our eyes go down due to fear.

    Significance Of Police Reforms

    1. Where the world is progressing and reforming, we are still using the colonial law of 1861.
    2. Until the first decade of this millennium, some largely-infructuous committees – the Julio Ribeiro Committee, 1998; the Padmanabhaiah Committee, 1999; the Malimath Committee, 2000 and so on – were set up to examine aspects of police reforms. The National Human Rights Committee too occasionally intervened to raise the matter.
    3. Mr Prakash Singh, a retired police officer, petitioned the Supreme Court for police reform. He attributed the abuse of power and inefficient functioning of the police to archaic structure and organisation outlined in the Police Act, 1861.
    4. The Prakash Singh case reforms intended to direct to redefine the role and functions of the police and frame a new Police Act on the lines of the Model Act drafted by the National Police Commission in order to ensure that the police are made accountable essentially and primarily to law of the land and the people.

    Measures To Provide Autonomy And Establish Accountability In The Police System

    1. To check against such abuse of power, various countries have adopted safeguards, such as accountability of the police through independent police oversight authorities.
    2. Political interference and threat of transfers affect the police functioning. An independent police force can function in a non-partisan manner and can be trusted by the people in politically sensitive issues.
    3. Overburdened police with the scarcity of resources take refuge in corruption and bribery. Modernisation of police, with the United Nations’ recommended standard of 222 police per lakh persons will provide an incentive for efficient and effective policing.
    4. Separate the investigating police from the law and order police to ensure speedier investigation, better expertise and improved rapport with the people. Also, it will create accountability in the system.
    5. The concept of SMART police given by the Prime Minister of India should be implemented in true letter and spirit. The term SMART stands for S-Sensitive and Strict; M-Modern with mobility; A- Alert and Accountable; R- Reliable and Responsive; T- Trained and Techno-savvy.

    If India is to achieve its status as a great power, it is absolutely essential that police be restructured and modernised. The vested interests of politicians and bureaucrats need to be countered by the combined pressure of public opinion, with support from the media and NGOs. The country needs another zamindari abolition with police being freed from the stranglehold of the executive and given functional autonomy to enforce the rule of law.

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Anil Bhargav
  • 1
Anil BhargavBegginer
Asked: July 20, 2024In:
  • 1

Talk about the concepts that led to the creation of various armed forces stationed along international borders. Emphasize these troops’ role in maintaining India’s security as well.

upsc: security forces & agencies
  1. Preeti Singh
    Preeti Singh Begginer

    Presently, there are seven Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) which come under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs. Four CAPFs along with the Indian Army are entrusted to guard the 15,106.7 Km long international land border which India shares with seven different countries. TRead more

    Presently, there are seven Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) which come under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs. Four CAPFs along with the Indian Army are entrusted to guard the 15,106.7 Km long international land border which India shares with seven different countries. The reasons for the conceptualization of different Central Armed Police Forces for guarding the international borders are:

    • Non-uniform borders: The International borders are not uniform in character and have different physical features, terrain, and climatic conditions. Different specialized forces are needed to cater to the needs of different terrain. For example, the Indo-China border is guarded by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), which is a specialized mountain force.
    • Different threat perceptions: The nature of threats varies across the international border. For example, the western front of India which faces the challenge of infiltration and terrorism is guarded by BSF, ITBP guards the North-Eastern borders against external aggression etc.
    • Diverse cultural regions: These forces needed an in-depth understanding and familiarity of the culture and ethos of the border populations as they are entrusted with promoting a sense of security and integration among these populations.

    Guarding the international borders, preventing trans-border crimes such as smuggling, conducting counter-insurgency operations, gathering intelligence, preventing unauthorized entry or exit from the territory of India, aid to the civil administration, and support during disaster management are some of the similar roles performed by these four CAPFs on the international border. The specific contributions of each force for ensuring the security of India are as follows:

    • Assam Rifles (AR): Which guards the Indo-Myanmar border was formed in 1835. After independence, it performed a conventional combat role during the Sino-India War 1962 and as part of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) in Sri Lanka in 1987, it participated in Operation Pawan. This force has played a stellar role in integrating the tribal population with mainstream India. It is the highest awarded and decorated Para Military Force of the Republic of India.
    • Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP): This force provided security along the entire stretch of the India-China border. Its contributions are diverse and many such as providing security cover to sensitive installations, VPs, and during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. It is also mandated to perform wartime roles with the Indian Army.
    • Border Security Forces (BSF): Deployed on the India-Pakistan and India-Bangladesh borders, the force was raised in 1965 after the India-Pakistan war. Contributions of BSF include assistance to the Army during the India-Pak war in 1971 and the Kargil conflict in 1999. It was also instrumental in controlling militancy in Punjab and fighting militancy in Kashmir.
    • Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB): This force is deployed on the Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bhutan borders. SSB is instrumental in generating a sense of national belonging, security, and vigilance. It trains villagers in the art of self-defense to develop a spirit of resistance. Its contributions include achieving ‘Total security preparedness’ in the remote border areas.

    Though the CAPFs perform multiple crucial roles, these forces are sometimes forced to work in poor working conditions with several operational bottlenecks. The Joshi Committee, 2018 highlighted modernization of CAPFs, training, and capacity building reforming the promotion and cadre management policies, etc. as the urgent and impending reform to improve the functioning of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs).

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Dheeraj Kumar
  • 0
Dheeraj KumarBegginer
Asked: July 22, 2024In:
  • 0

Talk about the steps the government has taken to combat the problem of Indian young being radicalized and recruited by terrorist groups and make suggestions for other actions that could be implemented.

upsc: security forces & agencies
  1. Nilesh Rawal
    Nilesh Rawal Begginer

    Measures to Address Radicalization and Recruitment of Indian Youth by Terrorist Organizations Introduction The radicalization and recruitment of Indian youth by terrorist organizations pose a serious threat to national security and social cohesion. The government has implemented various measures toRead more

    Measures to Address Radicalization and Recruitment of Indian Youth by Terrorist Organizations

    Introduction

    The radicalization and recruitment of Indian youth by terrorist organizations pose a serious threat to national security and social cohesion. The government has implemented various measures to counter this issue, but challenges persist. This analysis discusses the steps taken by the government and suggests additional strategies to combat radicalization and recruitment effectively.

    1. Government Measures to Address Radicalization

    • Counter-Radicalization Programs
      • National Action Plan: The government has developed a National Action Plan to Combat Terrorism and Radicalization, which includes various strategies to counter radicalization through community engagement and counter-narrative campaigns.
        • Recent Example: The “Mission Vistar” initiative launched in 2022 aims to engage with communities and prevent radicalization through education and awareness programs.
    • Intelligence and Surveillance
      • Enhanced Monitoring: The government has strengthened intelligence and surveillance mechanisms to detect and disrupt radicalization activities. This includes cooperation between agencies like the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Intelligence Bureau (IB).
        • Recent Example: The crackdown on the Popular Front of India (PFI) in 2022, which involved extensive surveillance and coordination among security agencies, aimed to curb the radicalization and recruitment of youth.
    • Community Engagement and Rehabilitation
      • Community Outreach: Initiatives such as the “Community Engagement Program” focus on building relationships with community leaders and providing counseling and rehabilitation for individuals vulnerable to radicalization.
        • Recent Example: The “Swaach Bharat Mission” has incorporated elements to promote social integration and counter extremist ideologies by fostering community development and social cohesion.
    • Educational Reforms and Awareness
      • Educational Initiatives: The government has introduced educational reforms and awareness programs in schools and colleges to promote critical thinking and resist radical ideologies.
        • Recent Example: The “National Curriculum Framework” has integrated components addressing terrorism and radicalization to educate students about the dangers of extremist ideologies.

    2. Additional Steps to Combat Radicalization and Recruitment

    • Strengthening Online Monitoring and Counter-Narratives
      • Digital Platforms: Enhance efforts to monitor and counter extremist content on social media and other digital platforms. Develop more robust counter-narratives to combat radical propaganda.
        • Suggestion: Establish a National Cyber Counter-Radicalization Unit to track and counter online extremist activities and support victims of radicalization.
    • Promoting Social and Economic Development
      • Youth Engagement: Invest in programs that provide economic opportunities, vocational training, and social support to disadvantaged youth, reducing their susceptibility to radicalization.
        • Suggestion: Launch “Skill Development and Employment Generation Programs” specifically targeting high-risk areas to offer alternatives to radicalization through employment and economic stability.
    • Enhanced Cooperation with International Partners
      • Global Collaboration: Strengthen collaboration with international agencies and governments to share intelligence and best practices for combating radicalization.
        • Suggestion: Establish bilateral and multilateral frameworks for counter-radicalization efforts and joint training programs with countries facing similar challenges.
    • Focused Rehabilitation and Reintegration Programs
      • Rehabilitation Initiatives: Expand and improve programs aimed at rehabilitating and reintegrating individuals who have been radicalized, providing psychological support and education to prevent recidivism.
        • Suggestion: Develop a “National Rehabilitation and Reintegration Framework” that includes psychological counseling, vocational training, and social reintegration support for former extremists.
    • Strengthening Legal and Policy Frameworks
      • Legislative Measures: Update legal frameworks to address emerging threats and radicalization tactics effectively. Ensure laws related to terrorism and radicalization are in line with international standards.
        • Suggestion: Amend existing counter-terrorism laws to include provisions for preemptive intervention and rehabilitation of radicalized individuals.

    3. Assessing the Impact of Government Measures

    • Effectiveness and Challenges
      • Positive Impact: The measures taken by the government have contributed to reducing radicalization and recruitment, with notable successes in disrupting extremist networks and preventing attacks.
        • Recent Example: The disruption of the Naxal network in 2022 through targeted operations and community outreach has been a significant achievement in combating radicalization.
      • Ongoing Challenges: Persistent issues include the sophistication of extremist propaganda, the resilience of radical networks, and the need for continuous adaptation of counter-radicalization strategies.

    Conclusion

    The government’s efforts to address the radicalization and recruitment of Indian youth by terrorist organizations have yielded notable successes but also face significant challenges. Measures such as counter-radicalization programs, intelligence enhancement, and community engagement are crucial in combating this issue. Additional steps, including strengthening online monitoring, promoting social development, and enhancing international cooperation, are essential to effectively counter radicalization and ensure the safety and security of Indian society.

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Rajashree Shirke
  • 0
Rajashree ShirkeLearner
Asked: January 22, 2025In:
  • 0

Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Briefly introduce the role of CAPFs in maintaining India’s security, highlighting their importance in internal and external security. Mention the seven CAPFs: NSG, ITBP, SSB, CRPF, CISF, Assam Rifles, and BSF. 2. Importance of Coordination and Collaboration Among ...

upsc: security forces & agencies
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction The coordination and collaboration among India's Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) can indeed play a pivotal role in addressing the country's diverse and dynamic security challenges. India has seven CAPFs, including the NSG, ITBP, SSB, CRPF, CISF, Assam Rifles, and BSF, eRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    The coordination and collaboration among India’s Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) can indeed play a pivotal role in addressing the country’s diverse and dynamic security challenges. India has seven CAPFs, including the NSG, ITBP, SSB, CRPF, CISF, Assam Rifles, and BSF, each with distinct responsibilities. While BSF, ITBP, and SSB focus on border security, CRPF and CISF manage internal security and critical infrastructure. The integration of these forces can significantly enhance their operational efficiency and effectiveness.

    Enhanced Interoperability and Efficiency

    The integration of these forces under a unified command structure can improve interoperability and coordination, allowing for more synchronized operations in border and internal security. A common operational framework can help in the effective management of threats, such as insurgency or cross-border terrorism. For example, the joint operational planning between the BSF, ITBP, and SSB can streamline their functions and improve their ability to respond to security challenges quickly.

    Resource Optimization and Intelligence Sharing

    Jointness will allow CAPFs to optimize resources by standardizing training, administration, and procurement processes. This can lead to significant cost savings, such as creating shared logistics and repair nodes. Furthermore, improved intelligence sharing, as seen in the coordination between CRPF and BSF in Kashmir, enhances situational awareness and ensures faster responses to threats.

    Adaptability to Changing Geopolitical Dynamics

    Given the changing security landscape, integrating CAPFs will allow forces that primarily operate in peacetime, like the SSB, to be better prepared for wartime duties. This jointness will ensure that all forces are well-equipped to handle evolving threats.

    Challenges to Overcome

    Despite these benefits, challenges such as the limited commonality between forces with different roles and responsibilities, coordination issues, and the need for re-training must be addressed to achieve seamless integration.

    Highlights:

    • Seven CAPFs with distinct roles.
    • Enhanced interoperability: Unified command structure and operational integration.
    • Resource optimization: Standardized training and logistics.
    • Intelligence sharing: Improved response to threats, e.g., CRPF and BSF in Kashmir.
    • Adaptability: Prepares forces for wartime duties.
    • Challenges: Coordination difficulties, role differences, re-training.
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Kumudini Lakhia
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Kumudini LakhiaEnthusiast
Asked: January 22, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction (Defining Grey Zone Warfare) Define Grey Zone Warfare: Begin with a clear definition: Grey zone warfare refers to actions between traditional peace and full-scale war, where adversaries engage in covert or ambiguous activities below the threshold of ...

upsc: security forces & agencies
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Grey zone warfare refers to actions that exist between traditional peace and full-scale conflict, leveraging ambiguity to achieve strategic goals while avoiding outright war. It involves covert or indirect methods such as cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, economic coercion, and thRead more

    Model Answer

    Grey zone warfare refers to actions that exist between traditional peace and full-scale conflict, leveraging ambiguity to achieve strategic goals while avoiding outright war. It involves covert or indirect methods such as cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, economic coercion, and the use of proxy forces. These actions are often gradual, designed for plausible deniability, and aimed at avoiding a decisive counter-response. For example, China’s tactics in the Indo-Pacific region, including its maritime incursions and disinformation campaigns, exemplify grey zone warfare.

    Measures India Can Adopt to Counter Grey Zone Warfare

    1. Enhancing Capabilities

    • Specialized Commands: Accelerate the establishment of dedicated Special Operations, Cyber, and Space Commands to address multi-domain threats.
    • Informational Warfare: Build robust capabilities for information warfare, including surveillance and cyber defense systems.

    2. Deterrence Through Capability Demonstration

    • Regular Demonstrations: Showcase advanced capabilities in cyber, economic, and informational domains to deter adversaries.
    • Clear Red Lines: Consistently communicate unacceptable actions and their consequences to adversaries.

    3. Active Monitoring and Early Warning

    • Advanced Systems: Develop AI-powered systems to detect early signs of grey zone activities in cyber, political, and information domains.

    4. Countering Disinformation

    • Digital Awareness: Launch awareness campaigns and enact laws to curb harmful or deceptive content.
    • Oversight Bodies: Establish regulatory bodies for monitoring digital platforms.

    5. Building Alliances

    • International Cooperation: Forge strong alliances to pool resources and coordinate responses. For instance, India-U.S. cooperation in Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) enhances readiness against China’s grey zone tactics.

    6. Economic Diversification

    • Reduce Dependence: Diversify supply chains, especially in critical sectors like semiconductors, to mitigate economic coercion risks.

    Supporting Fact

    India and the U.S. are collaborating to diversify semiconductor supply chains, reducing dependence on China.

    By adopting these measures, India can better address the nuanced challenges of grey zone warfare while maintaining a robust and adaptive security framework.

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Darshan Suresh
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Darshan SureshBegginer
Asked: January 21, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction: Define the Role of ICG Objective: Briefly introduce the Indian Coast Guard and its mission. Content: Mention the ICG’s establishment under the Coast Guard Act, 1978, and its mandate to ensure maritime security, safeguard offshore resources, and ...

upsc: security forces & agencies
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Maritime Patrol and Surveillance One of the primary functions of the ICG is to monitor India’s maritime borders through advanced surveillance technologies. Fact: The ICG utilizes the Coastal Surveillance Network (CSN) and Automatic Identification System (AIS) to detect and deter potentiRead more

    Model Answer

    Maritime Patrol and Surveillance

    One of the primary functions of the ICG is to monitor India’s maritime borders through advanced surveillance technologies.

    • Fact: The ICG utilizes the Coastal Surveillance Network (CSN) and Automatic Identification System (AIS) to detect and deter potential maritime threats.
    • Example: After the 2008 Mumbai attacks, the ICG was assigned coastal security duties, including coordination between central and state agencies.

    Maritime Law Enforcement

    The ICG plays a critical role in enforcing maritime laws, particularly in combating criminal activities like poaching, smuggling, and drug trafficking.

    • Fact: In 2023 alone, the ICG seized contraband worth Rs. 478 crores, contributing significantly to anti-smuggling and narcotics control at sea.
    • Example: In the past, the ICG has seized contraband worth Rs. 15,343 crores, highlighting its effective law enforcement capabilities.

    Cooperation with Regional Partners

    The ICG collaborates with neighboring nations through joint exercises, patrols, and information-sharing to strengthen regional maritime security.

    • Fact: India conducts joint exercises with neighboring countries as part of the “SAGAR” (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and “Neighbourhood First” policies.

    Enhancing Maritime Domain Awareness

    The ICG enhances maritime domain awareness by tracking vessel movements, thus identifying non-traditional security threats such as illegal fishing and piracy.

    • Example: The ICG has successfully prevented illegal fishing by foreign vessels within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

    Comprehensive Security Matrix

    The ICG ensures a comprehensive security matrix that includes coastal security, anti-terrorism, anti-piracy, and port security.

    • Fact: The ICG supports the Indian Navy in securing India’s maritime borders, contributing to overall national security.

    Conclusion

    The ICG’s strategic operations in maritime surveillance, law enforcement, regional cooperation, and domain awareness are vital to India’s maritime security. The government continues to enhance its capabilities, ensuring the ICG’s role remains a cornerstone in safeguarding India’s maritime interests.

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Darshan Suresh
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Darshan SureshBegginer
Asked: January 21, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting a well-structured and impactful answer to the question: 1. Introduction Objective: Set the context by introducing the NIA and its purpose. Content: Mention its role as India’s premier counter-terrorism agency and its mandate. Fact to ...

upsc: security forces & agencies
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer The National Investigation Agency (NIA) plays a pivotal role in safeguarding India's security by acting as a premier counter-terrorism body and contributing to national safety through robust investigative and preventive measures. Its key roles and functions are outlined below: 1. CombatRead more

    Model Answer

    The National Investigation Agency (NIA) plays a pivotal role in safeguarding India’s security by acting as a premier counter-terrorism body and contributing to national safety through robust investigative and preventive measures. Its key roles and functions are outlined below:

    1. Combating Terrorism

    The NIA undertakes in-depth investigations into terrorist activities, organizations, and financing. Using scientific methods, it ensures the successful detection and prosecution of cases.
    Example: The NIA investigates offenses under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967, ensuring stringent action against terrorism-related crimes.

    2. Pan-India Mandate

    With jurisdiction across the entire country, the NIA addresses threats to India’s sovereignty and integrity.
    Example: As per the NIA Act, 2008, the agency is authorized to investigate cases irrespective of state boundaries, enabling it to handle transnational crimes effectively.

    3. Assisting State Governments

    The NIA collaborates with state governments and law enforcement agencies to strengthen counter-terrorism efforts.
    Example: Coordination between the NIA and police forces in Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh has institutionalized mechanisms to combat organized crime across northern India.

    4. Leveraging Advanced Technology

    The NIA integrates modern technology and scientific tools into its operations to improve investigation quality.
    Example: The Criminal Case Management System, developed by the NIA, enhances efficiency and speeds up the investigative process.

    5. Ensuring Efficient Trials

    The NIA ensures timely and effective legal proceedings through the establishment of special NIA courts.
    Example: Cases investigated by the NIA are prosecuted in dedicated courts under the NIA Act, ensuring focused attention on sensitive cases.

    Conclusion

    The NIA sets high standards for counter-terrorism and national security investigations, contributing significantly to India’s safety and security. Its comprehensive approach, advanced methods, and collaborative efforts make it a cornerstone of India’s security apparatus.

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Darshan Suresh
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Darshan SureshBegginer
Asked: January 21, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing To effectively answer the question, follow these steps: 1. Introduction Briefly introduce the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), its origin, and initial purpose. Mention its establishment year (1969) and primary mandate (securing Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and government installations). Key Fact: CISF ...

upsc: security forces & agencies
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Origins and Initial Role Established in 1969 under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the CISF was initially tasked with securing Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and government installations. It began with a modest strength of around 3,000 personnel. Expansion in Scale and Strength ORead more

    Model Answer

    Origins and Initial Role

    Established in 1969 under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the CISF was initially tasked with securing Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and government installations. It began with a modest strength of around 3,000 personnel.

    Expansion in Scale and Strength

    Over the years, the CISF expanded its operations significantly:

    • Strength Growth: From 3,000 personnel at inception to approximately 1.77 lakh officers and personnel today.
    • Geographical and Operational Spread: It now secures key installations like airports, seaports, the Delhi Metro, and heritage sites such as the Taj Mahal and Red Fort.

    Diversification of Roles

    The CISF’s responsibilities have broadened to include:

    • Disaster Response and Rescue: Engaging in emergency and rescue operations.
    • Private Sector Security: Securing private sector establishments under a legislative amendment.
    • VIP Security: Providing security to VIPs as recommended by a parliamentary committee in 2018.
    • Fire Wing Services: Delivering fire protection and prevention services.

    Modern Initiatives

    • Consultancy Services: Offering professional consultancy in security and fire protection to public and private entities.
    • Inclusion of Women: CISF leads among Central Armed Police Forces in the representation of women, with Special DG Nina Singh as its first female head.

    Recent Developments

    The CISF was recently tasked with securing the Indian Parliament, showcasing its increasing relevance in critical national security.

    Conclusion

    From industrial security to safeguarding national heritage, critical infrastructure, and individuals, the CISF has emerged as a multi-dimensional security force. Its ability to adapt to India’s evolving security landscape underscores its role as a cornerstone of internal security

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 23, 2024In:
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Human rights activists constantly highlight the view that the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA) is a draconian act leading to cases of human rights abuses by the security forces. What sections of AFSPA are opposed by the activists? ...

upsc: security forces & agencies
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA) grants special powers to the Indian Armed Forces in "disturbed areas," primarily in northeast states like Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, and Nagaland, and Jammu and Kashmir. While the Union Government has partially witRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA) grants special powers to the Indian Armed Forces in “disturbed areas,” primarily in northeast states like Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, and Nagaland, and Jammu and Kashmir. While the Union Government has partially withdrawn AFSPA from some regions, it remains controversial due to allegations of human rights abuses.

    Sections of AFSPA Criticized by Activists

    1. Section 3 (Declaration of ‘Disturbed Areas’):
      This section allows the government to declare any area as “disturbed,” a term that lacks a clear definition, leading to arbitrary and potentially unjust applications.
    2. Section 4 (Special Powers of the Armed Forces):
      This provision enables security forces to conduct searches, arrest without warrants, and use lethal force. Critics argue this facilitates extrajudicial killings and undermines the rule of law.

    View Held by the Apex Court

    The Supreme Court recognizes AFSPA’s necessity in maintaining order but emphasizes the protection of citizens’ rights. In the landmark case Extra Judicial Execution Victim Families Association v. Union of India (2016), the Court mandated thorough investigations into instances of lethal force used by security forces in AFSPA-affected areas.

    Example Case:

    The Thangjam Manorama case in 2004, where Assam Rifles personnel allegedly tortured, sexually assaulted, and killed a young woman, sparked widespread protests in Manipur, highlighting the potential for abuse under AFSPA.

    Conclusion

    The ongoing debate surrounding AFSPA illustrates the tension between national security and human rights. While maintaining peace in disturbed areas is essential, safeguarding citizens’ rights is equally important. A re-evaluation of AFSPA, particularly its contentious provisions, is necessary to enhance transparency and accountability, aligning with the Supreme Court’s insistence on protecting individual rights.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 23, 2024In:
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The phrases “surgical strikes” and “hot pursuit” are frequently used in relation to using force to stop terrorist attacks. Talk on the strategic implications of these moves. (200 words) [UPSC 2016]

upsc: security forces & agencies
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction The military strategies of 'Hot Pursuit' and 'Surgical Strikes' are critical responses to cross-border terrorism. 'Hot Pursuit' refers to chasing a retreating enemy into its territory, while 'Surgical Strikes' involve precise operations aimed at minimizing collateral damageRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    The military strategies of ‘Hot Pursuit’ and ‘Surgical Strikes’ are critical responses to cross-border terrorism. ‘Hot Pursuit’ refers to chasing a retreating enemy into its territory, while ‘Surgical Strikes’ involve precise operations aimed at minimizing collateral damage. Both strategies have significant strategic implications in counter-terrorism efforts.

    Strategic Impact of Hot Pursuit and Surgical Strikes

    Deterrence

    Both strategies serve as powerful deterrents against hostile entities and state sponsors of terrorism. For instance, India’s surgical strike following the Uri attack in 2016 demonstrated a clear intolerance for cross-border terrorism, sending a strong message to adversaries about the consequences of such actions.

    Disruption of Terror Infrastructure

    These military operations aim to degrade terrorist capabilities by targeting their infrastructure. Disrupting training camps, communication lines, and logistical support reduces the operational effectiveness of terrorist groups. This strategic focus is essential for curtailing future attacks and undermining the enemy’s morale.

    Boost Morale

    The execution of such operations bolsters the morale of security forces and reassures the public about their safety. Demonstrating a willingness to retaliate not only strengthens the resolve of military personnel but also enhances public confidence in the government’s ability to handle security threats.

    International Diplomacy

    Hot Pursuit and Surgical Strikes can also draw international attention to terrorism, compelling other nations to reconsider their policies towards harboring terrorist groups. Such actions may facilitate diplomatic pressure on countries that support or tolerate terrorism. However, they also risk escalating tensions and potentially leading to international disputes.

    Conclusion

    While ‘Hot Pursuit’ and ‘Surgical Strikes’ can be effective military responses to terrorist threats, they should be integrated into a broader strategy that includes diplomatic efforts and internal security measures. This balanced approach is essential for achieving long-term peace and stability.

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On: February 22, 2025 Comments: 0

Indo-US Relation: Areas of Cooperation & Conflicts

Key Areas: Defense, technology, trade, energy, and regional cooperation. Key Areas of Cooperation 1. Defense and Security Transition from buyer-seller to co-production and technology sharing. India as a Major Defense Partner (MDP) and inclusion in STA-1. Access to advanced technologies, ...

On: February 22, 2025 Comments: 0

भारत-अमेरिका संबंध: सहयोग और संघर्ष के क्षेत्र

मुख्य विषय: भारत-अमेरिका संबंधों की मजबूती, विशेषकर रक्षा, प्रौद्योगिकी और क्षेत्रीय सहयोग में प्रगति। सहयोग के प्रमुख क्षेत्र 1. रक्षा एवं सुरक्षा सहयोग भारत और अमेरिका के बीच रक्षा संबंधों का विस्तार। प्रमुख रक्षा साझेदार (MDP) का दर्जा और STA-1 ...

On: February 22, 2025 Comments: 0

India’s Disaster Management

The article discusses the growing tensions between the Centre and states regarding disaster relief funding in India. It emphasizes the need for a transparent and equitable disaster management framework. Key Disaster Threats India Faces Increasing Frequency of Extreme Weather Events ...

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