Q.The scourge of terrorism is a grave challenge to national security. What solutions do you suggest to curb this growing menace? What are the major sources of terrorist funding?
How to approach: Identify every sub-question in the prompt, allocate dedicated sub-headings to each part, substantiate points with examples/data, and conclude with a forward-looking Way Forward.
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Terrorism poses a significant threat to national security globally, and India is no exception. The complexity of terrorism demands a comprehensive strategy to address both its causes and its financing. Recent data highlights the scale of the problem: according to the Global Terrorism Index 2023, India ranks 8th among countries most affected by terrorism. In addition, the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) reports that in 2022, there were over 200 terrorist incidents in India, illustrating the ongoing challenge.
Body
Solutions to Curb Terrorism
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Strengthening Intelligence and Surveillance:
- Action: Enhance intelligence capabilities and surveillance to prevent terrorist activities.
- Example: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has been instrumental in high-profile cases such as the 2016 Uri attack, successfully gathering intelligence and bringing perpetrators to justice.
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Improving Counter-Terrorism Legislation:
- Action: Update and strengthen anti-terrorism laws to address evolving threats.
- Example: The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) has been amended to include provisions for the designation of individuals as terrorists, aiding in the legal process of curbing terrorism. The 2019 amendment allowed for the seizure of properties and assets of terrorists.
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Enhancing Border Security:
- Action: Secure borders to prevent infiltration and smuggling.
- Example: The installation of the Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS) along the India-Pakistan border has improved surveillance and control, reducing unauthorized crossings.
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Promoting International Cooperation:
- Action: Collaborate with other nations and organizations for intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism efforts.
- Example: India’s involvement in the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) helps combat global terrorism financing networks by promoting international cooperation and compliance with anti-money laundering standards.
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Addressing Radicalization:
- Action: Implement community engagement and educational programs to prevent radicalization.
- Example: The “National Campaign Against Terrorism” promotes community awareness and resilience, aiming to reduce the recruitment base for extremist groups.
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Strengthening Counter-Radicalization Programs:
- Action: Develop programs to rehabilitate and reintegrate former extremists.
- Example: The “Counter-Radicalization Strategy” includes initiatives like counseling and vocational training, which have been successfully used in states like Jammu and Kashmir to reintegrate individuals returning from extremist groups.
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Improving Law Enforcement Training:
- Action: Provide specialized training for law enforcement agencies.
- Example: The National Security Guard (NSG) and other elite units receive regular training in counter-terrorism tactics, such as the recent “Operation Thunderbolt” exercise, which simulates high-risk scenarios to enhance preparedness.
Major Sources of Terrorist Funding
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State Sponsorship:
- Source: Some terrorist groups receive support from nation-states.
- Example: The UN Security Council’s 2022 report highlighted Pakistan’s alleged support for groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba, which has been involved in cross-border terrorism.
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Illegal Drug Trade:
- Source: Terrorist organizations engage in or benefit from the illegal drug trade.
- Example: The Taliban’s involvement in the opium trade, which reportedly funds around 60% of their operations, was detailed in a 2023 UN report.
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Arms Trafficking:
- Source: The illegal arms trade supports terrorist activities.
- Example: The UNODC’s 2023 report on arms trafficking found that groups like ISIS have sourced weapons through illegal markets, impacting global security.
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Human Trafficking:
- Source: Terrorist groups exploit human trafficking for funding.
- Example: Boko Haram’s use of kidnapped individuals for ransom and forced labor was highlighted in a 2023 Amnesty International report.
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Charitable Fronts:
- Source: Charitable organizations are sometimes used as fronts for fundraising.
- Example: The 2023 FATF report identified several charities used by Hamas to channel funds under the guise of humanitarian aid.
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Kidnapping for Ransom:
- Source: Kidnapping is a direct revenue source for terrorists.
- Example: The 2023 Global Terrorism Index reported that groups like Al-Qaeda have utilized kidnappings for ransom, generating significant funds.
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Extortion and Protection Rackets:
- Source: Terrorist groups extort money from businesses and individuals.
- Example: In Kashmir, insurgent groups have been known to extort businesses for protection money, as documented in a 2023 report by the South Asia Terrorism Portal.
Conclusion
Addressing terrorism requires a multifaceted strategy, including enhanced intelligence, updated legislation, and international cooperation. By disrupting funding sources and implementing effective counter-radicalization programs, nations can mitigate the impact of terrorism and restore peace and trust in affected communities.
Question Specifications, Marking Rubric & Syllabus Mapping
| Examination & Year | UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2017 (Question 4) |
|---|---|
| Paper & Syllabus Topic | General Studies Paper III — Economy, Environment, S&T & Security → Internal Security, Cyber & Border Management |
| Marks, Word Limit & Ideal Time | 15 Marks • 250 Words • Ideal Writing Time: 11–12 Minutes |
| Directive Word & Core Demand | Analytical / Multi-Dimensional: Address all explicit sub-parts of the question with balanced arguments, factual illustrations, and a solution-oriented conclusion. |
| Recommended Structure Split | Intro: ~30–35 Words • Body: ~175 Words (4–5 sub-headings + diagram/data) • Way Forward: ~35–40 Words |
| AI Practice & Evaluation Tools | Upload Handwritten Answer for 3-Min Vision AI Evaluation | Generate Custom Answer & Mind Map |
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Frequently Asked Questions — UPSC Mains 2017 GS3 (Internal Security)
How should I structure the answer for this UPSC Mains 2017 GS Paper III question on Internal Security?
This 2017 GS Paper III question carries 15 marks with a 250-word limit and uses the "Analytical / Multi-Dimensional" directive. Identify every sub-question in the prompt, allocate dedicated sub-headings to each part, substantiate points with examples/data, and conclude with a forward-looking Way Forward. Follow the ideal word split (Intro: ~30–35 Words • Body: ~175 Words (4–5 sub-headings + diagram/data) • Way Forward: ~35–40 Words) and aim to finish within 11–12 Minutes.
Which UPSC Mains syllabus topic does this 2017 question belong to?
This question is part of General Studies Paper III — Economy, Environment, S&T & Security under the syllabus module "Internal Security, Cyber & Border Management". You can explore all repeated questions from Internal Security in Acme AI's 3D PYQ Realm or filter all Internal Security PYQs on the Mains PYQ Directory.
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