Roadmap for Answer Writing
1. Introduction
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- Briefly introduce the issue of rising drone sightings along the India-Pakistan border and the implications for national security.
2. Current Situation
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- Present relevant statistics on drone sightings to highlight the urgency of the situation.
- Mention the increase in drone sightings from 35 in 2019 to 300 in 2023, indicating a significant rise in drone activity along the border .
3. Challenges Posed by Drones
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- Discuss the nature of the threats posed by hostile drones, including smuggling, surveillance, and potential attacks.
- Reference incidents such as the drone attack on the Jammu Air Force Station in June 2021, which marked a significant escalation in drone-related threats .
4. Proposed Measures for Enhancement of Defense
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- Investment in Counter-Drone Technology: Emphasize the need for advanced technologies to detect and neutralize drones. Cite examples from other countries, such as Russia’s use of electronic warfare against drones in Ukraine .
- Capacity Building: Suggest specialized training for security forces to improve their response to drone threats. Propose the creation of dedicated drone battalions for enhanced border security .
- Inter-Agency Coordination: Advocate for improved coordination among various security agencies to share intelligence and respond effectively to drone incursions .
- Database Management: Recommend maintaining a comprehensive database of drones to track their usage and potential modifications by criminal networks .
- Public-Private Partnerships: Highlight the importance of collaboration between government and private sectors to foster indigenous drone technology development.
- International Collaboration: Suggest partnerships with countries like Israel and the United States to leverage their expertise in counter-drone technologies .
5. Conclusion
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- Summarize the importance of a multi-faceted approach to enhance India’s defense against drone threats and the need for immediate action given the rising incidents.
Relevant Facts
- The number of drone sightings on the India-Pakistan border increased from 35 in 2019 to 300 in 2023, indicating a significant rise in drone activity .
- The Jammu Air Force Station was attacked by drones in June 2021, marking a critical escalation in drone-related threats .
- Russia has effectively used electronic warfare capabilities against small drones in Ukraine, which India could consider emulating.
Model Answer
1. Investment in Counter-Drone Technology
India should prioritize the development and deployment of advanced counter-drone technologies capable of detecting, tracking, and neutralizing unauthorized drones. For example, Russia has successfully utilized electronic warfare capabilities against small drones in Ukraine, demonstrating effective countermeasures that India could emulate .
2. Capacity Building
Enhancing the capabilities of security forces and law enforcement agencies through specialized training programs is crucial. These programs should focus on drone detection, identification, and response strategies. Additionally, the establishment of dedicated drone battalions for border security could significantly improve operational readiness .
3. Inter-Agency Coordination
Institutionalizing inter-agency coordination is essential for a comprehensive understanding of hostile drone activities. This coordination should mirror successful frameworks used in counter-terrorism and narcotics control, facilitating timely sharing of actionable intelligence among various security agencies .
4. Database Management
Maintaining a detailed database of micro and small drones, both imported and domestically produced, will enhance monitoring capabilities. This database should track drones that are susceptible to modification by criminal networks, thereby improving the ability of security agencies to deter potential threats .
5. Public-Private Partnerships
Fostering collaboration between government agencies, private companies, and research institutions can accelerate the development of indigenous drone technologies. Such partnerships can pool resources and expertise, strengthening national capabilities against drone threats .
6. International Collaboration
Engaging with international partners, particularly those with advanced counter-drone technologies like Israel and the United States, can provide India with valuable insights and expertise. This collaboration can play a significant role in developing effective countermeasures against drone threats .
As drone technology becomes increasingly accessible, it is imperative for India to implement these strategies to safeguard its borders effectively.