Introduction
India has faced diverse and evolving security threats ranging from cross-border terrorism to homegrown radicalisation and cyber-enabled extremism. Traditionally, India’s counter-terror response has been reactive and fragmented, involving multiple agencies with overlapping jurisdictions.
In this context, the PRAHAAR (Proactive Response and Holistic Approach Against Radicalisation) Policy, 2026 represents a significant shift towards a comprehensive, coordinated, and proactive counter-terrorism doctrine. It aims to integrate intelligence, enforcement, prevention, and rehabilitation under a unified national framework.
Background and Need for PRAHAAR
1. Changing Nature of Terrorism
Modern terrorism is:
- Decentralised (lone-wolf attacks)
- Digitally driven (online radicalisation)
- Transnational (cross-border networks)
Traditional policing methods are no longer sufficient.
2. Lessons from Past Incidents
Events such as:
- 2008 Mumbai Attacks
- Repeated cross-border infiltration in Jammu & Kashmir
highlighted:
- Intelligence gaps
- Coordination failures
- Delayed response mechanisms
3. Institutional Fragmentation
Multiple agencies operate in silos:
- National Investigation Agency (NIA)
- Intelligence Bureau (IB)
- State police forces
Lack of real-time coordination reduces effectiveness.
4. Global Context
Countries like:
- United States (post-9/11 reforms)
- United Kingdom
have adopted integrated counter-terror frameworks combining:
- Security
- Prevention
- Community engagement
Key Features of PRAHAAR Policy
1. Whole-of-Government Approach
- Integrates efforts of:
- Central ministries
- State governments
- Intelligence agencies
- Establishes real-time coordination platforms
Breaks silos in governance.
2. Multi-Dimensional Strategy
(a) Preventive Measures
- Focus on early detection of radicalisation
- Monitoring of online platforms
- Community engagement programs
(b) Protective Measures
- Strengthening:
- Critical infrastructure security
- Border management
- Use of advanced surveillance technologies
(c) Response Mechanism
- Rapid response teams
- Crisis management protocols
- Inter-agency drills
(d) Rehabilitation & De-radicalisation
- Focus on:
- Reintegration of individuals
- Psychological counselling
- Reduces long-term threat cycles
3. Technology-Driven Counter-Terrorism
- Use of:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Big Data analytics
- Facial recognition systems
Enables predictive policing and threat assessment.
4. Counter-Radicalisation Framework
- Focus on:
- Educational institutions
- Social media platforms
- Collaboration with:
- Civil society
- Religious leaders
Addresses root causes, not just symptoms.
5. Legal and Institutional Strengthening
- Better coordination between:
- Existing laws (like UAPA)
- Enforcement agencies
- Emphasis on:
- Faster prosecution
- Stronger conviction rates
Significance of PRAHAAR
1. Shift from Reactive to Proactive Security
- Moves beyond post-incident response
- Emphasises prevention and preparedness
2. Integrated National Security Architecture
- Promotes seamless coordination between agencies
- Reduces duplication and intelligence gaps
3. Addressing Radicalisation
- Recognises that:
- Terrorism is not just a law-and-order issue
- It is also a social and ideological challenge
4. Strengthening Internal Security
- Enhances:
- Border security
- Cybersecurity
- Urban security
5. Global Alignment
- Brings India’s counter-terror framework in line with:
- International best practices
- UN counter-terror strategies
Challenges and Concerns
1. Federalism Issues
- Law and order is a State subject
- States may resist central coordination
Requires cooperative federalism.
2. Privacy and Civil Liberties
- Surveillance technologies raise concerns about:
- Data privacy
- Misuse of power
Needs strong safeguards.
3. Implementation Capacity
- Success depends on:
- Training of personnel
- Technological infrastructure
Uneven capacity across states can hinder effectiveness.
4. Risk of Over-Centralisation
- Excessive central control may:
- Undermine state autonomy
- Create bureaucratic bottlenecks
5. Community Trust Deficit
- Counter-radicalisation requires:
- Public trust
- Inclusive engagement
Poor implementation may alienate communities.
Comparative Perspective
United States Model
- Post-9/11 creation of:
- Department of Homeland Security
- Strong emphasis on intelligence integration
United Kingdom Model
- PREVENT strategy:
- Focuses on stopping radicalisation early
- Community-based approach
PRAHAAR combines both:
- Security-driven + society-driven approaches
Constitutional and Governance Dimensions
1. Balance Between Security and Liberty
- Article 21 (Right to Life & Liberty)
- Need to ensure:
- Security measures do not violate fundamental rights
2. Federal Structure
- Coordination between Centre and States is crucial
- Reflects spirit of cooperative federalism
3. Rule of Law
- Ensures counter-terror actions remain:
- Legal
- Accountable
Relevance for UPSC CSE
Prelims
- PRAHAAR policy features
- Counter-terror institutions
Mains (GS Paper III)
- Internal security challenges
- Role of technology in security
- Centre-State coordination
Essay
- Topics like:
- “Security vs Liberty”
- “Technology in Governance”
Interview
- Questions on:
- India’s preparedness against terrorism
- Balancing rights and security
Way Forward
- Strengthen Federal Cooperation
- Institutionalise Centre-State coordination
- Ensure Privacy Safeguards
- Robust data protection framework
- Capacity Building
- Training in cyber intelligence and AI tools
- Community Engagement
- Build trust through inclusive policies
- Periodic Review of Policy
- Adapt to evolving threats
The PRAHAAR Policy, 2026 represents a paradigm shift in India’s internal security strategy. By integrating prevention, enforcement, and rehabilitation, it moves towards a holistic counter-terrorism framework.
However, its success will depend on:
- Effective implementation
- Respect for constitutional values
- Strong Centre-State collaboration
If executed well, PRAHAAR can significantly enhance India’s ability to tackle 21st-century security challenges while upholding democratic principles.
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