In recent years, India has witnessed a significant rise in the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by adversaries, particularly across the India–Pakistan border. These drones are increasingly used to ferry arms, ammunition, explosives, and narcotics, thereby posing a formidable internal security challenge that blends terrorism, narco-trafficking, and asymmetric warfare.

Why UAV-Based Cross-Border Smuggling is a Serious Threat

1. Weapon Delivery for Terror Activities: UAVs offer a low-cost, high-risk-free method of arming sleeper cells.

   Example: In Jan 2024, Punjab Police recovered AK-47s and grenades dropped via drone in Tarn Taran, allegedly for Khalistani militants.

2. Narcotics as a Source of Terror Financing: Drug money is funnelled to fund terror operations in J&K and Punjab.

   Example: In May 2023, BSF seized a drone carrying 3 kg of heroin worth ₹15 crore in Amritsar.

3. Difficulty in Detection and Interception: Drones fly at low altitudes, often at night, bypassing traditional radar systems.

   Example: In Oct 2022, a drone dropped IEDs in Samba (J&K) undetected, found hours later.

4. Destabilisation of Border Areas

   Example: In Dec 2023, recurring drone sightings in Gurdaspur created panic in local communities, eroding trust in border security mechanisms.

5. Emergence of Sleeper Supply Chains: Drones are part of a larger network involving local smugglers and foreign handlers.

   Example: NIA in 2023 revealed links between drone drops and Canada-based Khalistani networks.

6. Geographic Expansion Beyond Traditional Hotspots

   Example: In March 2024, BSF shot down a drone in Barmer, Rajasthan, carrying narcotics — showing new trafficking routes.

7. Integration into Hybrid Warfare

   • Some drones are equipped with GPS, surveillance cameras, and even propaganda material.
   • Indicates a shift from tactical smuggling to strategic subversion.

Measures Taken by the Government

1. Deployment of Anti-Drone Systems

   • Indigenous solutions by DRDO and BEL: jamming, laser-based neutralisation.
   • Deployed at border posts, airports, and vital installations.

2. AI and Tech-Driven Surveillance

   • Use of AI-enabled radar, thermal imaging, and real-time analytics.
   • Integrated with Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS).

3. Enhanced Patrolling and Drone Detection: BSF and Army units using night-vision drones and trackers.

   Example: Quick Response Teams (QRTs) are active in Punjab and Jammu border belts.

4. Multi-Agency Coordination

   • Joint efforts by BSF, IB, NCB, Punjab Police, and central agencies.
   • Formation of National Counter Rogue Drone Guidelines.

5. Legal and Regulatory Framework

   • Drone Rules, 2021 to regulate drone operations.
   • Creation of No-Fly Zones and digital geofencing.

6. Community and Civil Engagement: Border residents incentivised to report suspicious activity.

   Example: Punjab Police launched a helpline and reward mechanism for drone tip-offs.

7. International Cooperation

   • Intelligence sharing with Canada, UK, and Interpol to disrupt overseas handlers.
   • Joint Working Groups on counter-terrorism with countries like Israel and the USA assist in tech transfer.

The UAV threat represents a new frontier in asymmetric warfare, with wide-ranging internal security implications—from terror funding and arms proliferation to public panic and border destabilisation. India’s response must be technologically sophisticated, legally robust, and strategically coordinated to stay ahead of adversaries and safeguard its internal security.