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Maritime Security Enhancements in India: A Comprehensive Overview

Key Measures and Future Directions

Maritime Security Enhancements in India: A Comprehensive Overview

  • 05 Dec, 2023
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Maritime Security Enhancements in India: An Overview

India has made significant strides in enhancing its maritime security, particularly in response to the 26/11 attacks. The government initiated several measures to fortify the safety of its maritime domain.

Measures Taken Post 26/11 Attacks

In the aftermath of the attacks, India expanded the responsibilities of the Indian Coast Guard, established new marine police stations, and increased the fleet of advanced vessels. The implementation of the Automatic Identification System (AIS) for larger vessels was made mandatory to enhance tracking and identification capabilities.

Improved Intelligence Coordination

To tackle terrorism more effectively, the Multi Agency Centre (MAC) was strengthened for better intelligence sharing among different agencies. Regular meetings and data exchanges between armed forces, police, and state agencies were institutionalized to maintain an updated and integrated intelligence network.

Legal Reforms to Combat Terrorism

India revised its Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and enacted the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act. These changes expanded the definition of terrorism and established a dedicated federal agency to investigate terror-related activities comprehensively.

International Support Post-Attacks

Following the 26/11 attacks, India received substantial international support, particularly from the United States. This included assistance from the FBI in investigations and heightened global awareness regarding the need for international cooperation against terrorism.

Modernization of Police Forces

Both central and state police forces underwent modernization with advanced technology. This included state-of-the-art equipment and training aimed at enhancing their capabilities to address contemporary policing challenges effectively.

Existing Gaps in Maritime Security

Despite these improvements, gaps still exist in India’s maritime security. One major concern is the tracking of smaller vessels that are not mandated to use AIS, which could lead to lapses in security measures.

The Importance of International Cooperation

International cooperation is crucial in India’s fight against terrorism. As terrorism is a global threat, shared intelligence, strategic support, and coordinated legal actions against terrorists and their networks are essential. Such collaboration reinforces the global commitment to combating terrorism.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What actions were taken to enhance India's maritime security after the 26/11 attacks?
Answer: India expanded the Indian Coast Guard’s responsibilities, established new marine police stations, and mandated the use of AIS for larger vessels to improve tracking and security.

Q2. How has India's intelligence coordination evolved since 26/11?
Answer: The Multi Agency Centre was enhanced for better intelligence sharing, with regular meetings and data exchange among armed forces, police, and state agencies.

Q3. What legal reforms were implemented to combat terrorism in India?
Answer: India revised the UAPA and enacted the NIA Act to broaden the definition of terrorism and create a dedicated agency for terror-related investigations.

Q4. What role does international support play in India's anti-terrorism efforts?
Answer: International support, especially from the U.S., has provided crucial assistance in investigations and emphasized the need for global cooperation against terrorism.

Q5. Are there still vulnerabilities in India's maritime security?
Answer: Yes, challenges remain, particularly in tracking smaller vessels that do not use AIS, which poses risks to maritime security.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What system was made mandatory for larger vessels in India post 26/11?
A) Global Positioning System (GPS)
B) Automatic Identification System (AIS)
C) Vessel Traffic Service (VTS)
D) Marine Traffic Monitoring System
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which act was revised in India to combat terrorism effectively?
A) Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA)
B) Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA)
C) National Security Act (NSA)
D) Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC)
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What is the role of the Multi Agency Centre (MAC) in India's security framework?
A) Conducts military operations
B) Facilitates intelligence sharing
C) Enforces maritime laws
D) Manages police forces
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Which federal agency was established for investigating terror-related activities in India?
A) Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
B) National Investigation Agency (NIA)
C) Intelligence Bureau (IB)
D) Enforcement Directorate (ED)
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: Why is international cooperation crucial in combating terrorism?
A) To share intelligence and resources
B) To promote tourism
C) To increase military presence
D) To limit trade agreements
Correct Answer: A

Question 6: What modernization efforts were made for India's police forces?
A) Increased salaries
B) Advanced technology and training
C) New uniforms
D) Reduced working hours
Correct Answer: B

 

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