India Unveils PRAHAAR: First National Counter-Terror Doctrine to Combat Hybrid Threats
India has officially introduced PRAHAAR, marking the nation's first-ever comprehensive national counter-terrorism doctrine. This groundbreaking framework consolidates strategies to address a wide spectrum of modern security challenges, including cross-border terrorism, cyberattacks, drone incursions, radicalisation, and terror financing. For decades, India relied on a patchwork of stringent laws and multiple agencies operating without a cohesive public strategy. PRAHAAR fundamentally transforms this approach by establishing a unified, forward-looking blueprint for national security.
A Unified Framework for Modern Threats
The PRAHAAR doctrine represents a significant shift from fragmented responses to a holistic, intelligence-led, and technology-driven methodology. It emphasizes real-time coordination between central and state-level agencies, ensuring seamless collaboration in counter-terror efforts. Key components include enhanced measures to disrupt terror funding networks and a graded, nuanced response to radicalisation processes. This doctrine is designed to tackle evolving threats such as sleeper cells, social-media-based recruitment, drone smuggling, and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) risks.
Key Features and Strategic Implications
Intelligence and Technology Integration: PRAHAAR prioritizes the use of advanced technology and intelligence gathering to preempt and respond to terror activities. This includes leveraging data analytics, surveillance systems, and cyber defense mechanisms to identify and neutralize threats before they materialize.
Coordinated Agency Response: The doctrine mandates improved interoperability among various security agencies, reducing bureaucratic delays and enhancing operational efficiency. This coordinated approach aims to create a more resilient security apparatus capable of swift action.
Focus on Radicalisation and Financing: PRAHAAR introduces targeted strategies to counter radicalisation through community engagement and deradicalisation programs. Simultaneously, it strengthens financial tracking mechanisms to curb the flow of funds to terrorist organizations, addressing a critical vulnerability in the terror ecosystem.
Historical Context and Future Outlook
Historically, India's counter-terrorism efforts were characterized by reactive measures and legislative actions without an overarching strategic vision. PRAHAAR fills this void by providing a clear, public doctrine that aligns with contemporary global security trends. It signals India's commitment to adopting a proactive stance in the war on terror, focusing on prevention and resilience. As hybrid threats continue to evolve, this doctrine positions India to better anticipate and mitigate risks, safeguarding national sovereignty and public safety in an increasingly complex security landscape.
