Overview
Since the 9/11 attacks, the nature of terrorism and the way nations respond have changed dramatically. India, which faced its first major cross‑border terror incident in the early 1990s, moved from a largely reactive stance to a proactive, cross‑border approach. The shift became evident after 2014, culminating in the 2025 Operation Sindoor and the launch of the PRAHAAR policy.
Key Developments (Bullet Points)
- 2016: First surgical strikes in Uri after a JeM attack.
- 2019: Indian Air Force strikes on a JeM camp in Balakot, marking the first cross‑border air operation.
- 2025: Operation Sindoor (May 6‑7) targeted the leadership of LeT and JeM, destroying their headquarters and Pakistani assets.
- 2026: Unveiling of PRAHAAR, a comprehensive national counter‑terrorism framework.
Important Facts
India’s early response to cross‑border terrorism was limited to diplomatic protests and occasional arrests. The Operation Parakram after the 2001 Parliament attack showed the difficulty of punitive action when nuclear‑armed neighbours are involved. Subsequent attacks—such as the 2008 Mumbai 26/11 attacks, the 2016 Uri strike, and the 2025 Pahalgam blast—prompted a doctrinal shift to treat any Pakistan‑backed terror act as an act of war.
Exam Relevance
Understanding India’s counter‑terrorism evolution is essential for GS2 (Polity) and GS3 (Security). Candidates should note how international events like 9/11 influenced domestic policy, the role of the LoC in facilitating infiltration, and the legal‑political implications of labeling attacks as acts of war.
Way Forward
India’s four‑fold strategy emphasizes: (1) continued elimination of residual terror networks in Kashmir; (2) pre‑emptive strikes on launch pads across the LoC; (3) a nationwide de‑radicalisation programme to deter youth recruitment; and (4) robust disruption of terror financing through international cooperation. The success of PRAHAAR will depend on coordinated action across ministries, civil society, and foreign partners.