India’s first anti-terror policy to be out soon, Pg1

Key Highlights:

• India's first anti-terror policy is being finalized by the Union government to serve as a template for States to combat terror incidents.
• Key issues under discussion include digital radicalisation, misuse of open borders, and foreign-funded conversion networks.
• The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is organizing an anti-terror conference on December 26-27 in Delhi to share policy contours.
• Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced the upcoming National Counter Terrorism Policy and Strategy in November.

Detailed Insights:

• The policy aims to provide a comprehensive framework for States to prevent and respond to terror attacks, addressing gaps in current counter-terrorism measures.
• The National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID), a secure platform for law enforcement agencies, is being considered for enhanced information sharing and coordination.
• Online radicalisation through social media, often linked to foreign entities, is a major concern, requiring strengthened detection mechanisms at the local police level.
• The misuse of open borders, particularly with Nepal, by terrorist elements using foreign passports is a priority issue for the policy.
• A similar National Policy and Action Plan for Left Wing Extremism (LWE) was introduced in 2015, providing a precedent for the new anti-terror policy.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Digital Radicalisation: The process of individuals being indoctrinated into extremist ideologies through online platforms.
• National Investigation Agency (NIA): India's primary counter-terrorism law enforcement agency.
• National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID): An integrated intelligence grid connecting various databases for security agencies.