Maritime Security Enhancements in India: An Overview
1. What measures has India taken to strengthen maritime security post 26/11 attacks?
India bolstered maritime security by expanding the Indian Coast Guard’s responsibilities, establishing new marine police stations, and increasing the fleet of advanced vessels. The nation also enforced mandatory use of the Automatic Identification System (AIS) for larger vessels to ensure better tracking and identification.
2. How has intelligence coordination improved in response to terrorism?
The Multi Agency Centre (MAC) was enhanced for better intelligence sharing among different agencies. Regular meetings and data exchange between armed forces, police, and state agencies were institutionalized to maintain an updated and integrated intelligence network.
3. What legal changes were made to combat terrorism?
India revised its Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and enacted the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act to expand the definition of terrorism and establish a dedicated federal agency for investigating terror-related activities.
4. What international support did India receive post the attacks?
Post 26/11, India received substantial international support, notably from the U.S., which included FBI assistance in investigations and increased global awareness about the need for international cooperation against terrorism.
5. In what ways were India’s police forces modernized?
The central and state police forces were modernized with advanced technology to enhance their capabilities. This included state-of-the-art equipment and training to handle contemporary policing challenges effectively.
6. Are there still gaps in India’s maritime security and intelligence?
Yes, despite improvements, issues remain, such as tracking smaller vessels that are not required to use AIS, which could lead to lapses in maritime security.
7. Why is international cooperation crucial in India’s fight against terrorism?
Terrorism being a global threat, international cooperation ensures shared intelligence, strategic support, and legal actions against terrorists and their networks. It solidifies global commitment to combating terrorism.
SRIRAM’s
