Day 51 – Q. 5. In light of the recent Pahalgam terror attack on pilgrims in Jammu & Kashmir, examine the evolving nature of terrorism in the region. How can India strengthen its intelligence, coordination, and preventive response to such targeted civilian attacks? (250 words, 15 marks)

Q. 5. In light of the recent Pahalgam terror attack on pilgrims in Jammu & Kashmir, examine the evolving nature of terrorism in the region. How can India strengthen its intelligence, coordination, and preventive response to such targeted civilian attacks? (250 words, 15 marks)

Introduction 

The recent Pahalgam terror attack on pilgrims highlights the changing face of terrorism in  Jammu & Kashmir, where civilians and soft targets are increasingly in focus. It raises urgent  concerns about security preparedness and coordination.  

Body  

Evolving Nature of Terrorism in J&K  

1. Shift to Soft Targets: Terror groups now focus more on unarmed civilians, tourists, and  pilgrims to instill fear and attract media attention. Example: The attack on Amarnath  pilgrims in 2017 and the recent Pahalgam incident.  
2. Proxy and Hybrid Militancy: Locals with minimal training are recruited for single  operations, blurring the line between civilians and terrorists. Example: Lone-wolf or part time militants with no known terror background.  
3. Use of Technology: Encrypted communication, drones for arms delivery, and digital  propaganda are rising. Example: Drone-dropped weapons recovered near border districts  in Jammu region.  
4. Cross-border Support: Despite tighter borders, Pakistan-backed groups continue  infiltration and support via sleeper cells and logistics. Example: Recovery of arms caches  with Pakistani markings.  

Strengthening India’s Response  

1. Intelligence Fusion: Establish real-time coordination through Multi-Agency Centres and  use AI to track movement patterns. Example: Integration of IB, RAW, and local police  inputs through NATGRID. 
2. Tech-Enabled Surveillance: Expand drone monitoring, facial recognition, and CCTV  coverage across highways and religious sites. Example: Drone surveillance successfully  foiled a terror attempt in Samba (2022).  
3. Community Policing & Early Warning: Empower locals to report suspicious activity using  mobile apps and reward systems. Example: Jammu Police’s community informant  network has helped track potential threats early.  
4. Pilgrim Protection Protocols: Upgrade SOPs for Yatra routes with RFID tracking, quick  response teams, and air surveillance. Example: The Amarnath Yatra security grid post 2017 includes RFID tags and 24/7 monitoring.  
5. Counter-Radicalisation Measures: Run targeted de-radicalisation programs, online  monitoring, and educational outreach in vulnerable communities. Example: J&K Police’s  “Taameer” initiative for youth engagement in Pulwama and Shopian.  
6. Crisis Response Drills: Conduct regular mock drills and inter-agency coordination  exercises for high-risk events and locations. Example: Annual mock evacuation drills  conducted along the Amarnath Yatra route.  

Steps Already Taken by India  

1. Revocation of Article 370: Enabled better central control and coordination of security  operations in J&K.  
2. Modernisation of Police Forces: Under the MPF Scheme, J&K police have been equipped  with bulletproof vehicles, body cameras, and surveillance tools.  
3. Increased Border Security: Deployment of anti-drone systems and underground  detection sensors along the Line of Control (LoC).  
4. Intelligence Infrastructure Expansion: Strengthening NATGRID and establishing more  Intelligence Fusion Centres in border areas.  
5. Operation Sindoor: Launched after the Pahalgam attack to secure pilgrimage routes and  neutralize terror threats through area domination and aerial surveillance.  

Conclusion 

The nature of terrorism in J&K is evolving, demanding proactive adaptation in India’s  counter-terror strategy. Enhanced coordination, tech integration, and community  involvement will be key to preventing future attacks and securing civilian lives.