Every news story that matters for the Internal Security part of UPSC Civil Services GS3 (Economy · S&T · Environment · Security), written for the exam: why in news, background, prelims facts, a practice MCQ and a mains question. 483 notes so far, updated daily.
Why in news: The Union Home Minister, ENPO, and Nagaland Government signed a tripartite agreement to establish the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority to address autonomy and development demands in Eastern Nagaland.
A tripartite agreement was signed on February 5, 2026, in Delhi between the Union Home Ministry, the Nagaland Government, and the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO). The Home Ministry will provide funding and support for the new authority.
Prelims pointers (4)
BodyFrontier Nagaland Territorial Authority: A body established to address autonomy and development in Eastern Nagaland.
FactThe agreement was signed on February 5, 2026, in Delhi.
PostAmit Shah: Union Home Minister of India.
FactThe Home Ministry is the primary funding body for the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of territorial authorities in addressing the aspirations of border regions and ensuring internal security in Northeast India.
Administrative decentralization: Balancing regional autonomy demands with the overarching requirements of national security and border integrity.
Developmental parity: Addressing infrastructure and economic disparities in frontier zones to mitigate secessionist sentiments.
Why in news: Twelve Maoist cadres, including eight women with a collective bounty of ₹46 lakh, surrendered to the Bastar police in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district under the 'Poona Margem' initiative.
Twelve Maoist cadres surrendered in Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh, on February 5, 2026. The group surrendered weapons and explosives under the Bastar police's 'Poona Margem' (rehabilitation to social reintegration) initiative, with each individual eligible for ₹50,000 in immediate assistance.
Prelims pointers (4)
FactA collective bounty of ₹46 lakh was associated with the 12 surrendered Maoist cadres.
SchemePoona Margem is the Bastar police initiative for rehabilitation to social reintegration.
FactEach surrendering Maoist is eligible for immediate assistance of ₹50,000.
PlaceThe surrender took place in the Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh.
Mains angle
Q. Examine how the combination of security operations and developmental schemes contributes to the declining influence of Left Wing Extremism in India's tribal heartlands.
Developmental synergy: Improved road connectivity and government schemes reducing the vacuum for insurgent influence
Rehabilitation efficacy: Transitioning from security-centric operations to social reintegration models for surrendered cadres
Keywords: Left Wing Extremism · Social Reintegration · Internal Security · Developmental Strategy · Counter-insurgency
Why in news: The Supreme Court adjourned the hearing on a plea challenging the detention of Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA) to February 9, 2026.
The Supreme Court, comprising Justice Aravind Kumar and Justice PB Varale, is hearing a plea by Gitanjali J. Angmo against her husband's detention. The Centre alleges Wangchuk was responsible for violence in Leh last year, while the petitioner claims the detention is illegal and arbitrary.
Prelims pointers (2)
Act / BillNational Security Act (NSA): Law used by the Centre to justify the detention of Sonam Wangchuk.
FactThe Supreme Court rescheduled the hearing of the plea to February 9, 2026.
Mains angle
Q. Examine the balance between state security requirements and individual liberties under the National Security Act, highlighting the necessity of judicial oversight in preventive detention.
Due process conflict: Balancing executive power to curb violence against the right to personal liberty.
Judicial scrutiny: Role of the judiciary in ensuring non-arbitrary application of preventive detention laws.
Rule of law: Ensuring transparency in the invocation of the National Security Act against activists.
Keywords: Preventive detention · Rule of law · Judicial review · National Security Act · Arbitrary detention
Why in news: The Telangana government unveiled AI-driven tools, including an AI-powered voice agent and a rule-based investigation tool, at the SHIELD 2026 conclave to enhance cyber policing.
The Telangana State Cyber Security Bureau showcased tools for managing child sexual abuse material and preventing online fraud. The SHIELD 2026 conclave in Hyderabad also featured collaborations with Meta to prevent suicides and demonstrations of robotic dogs and humanoid robots.
Prelims pointers (4)
S&TAI-powered voice agent and rule-based investigation tools were developed by the Telangana State Cyber Security Bureau.
FactThe SHIELD 2026 conclave was held in Hyderabad, Telangana.
S&TRobotic dogs and humanoid robots were demonstrated as part of the cyber policing technology showcase.
BodyThe Telangana State Cyber Security Bureau is the body responsible for developing the showcased digital initiatives.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how the integration of Artificial Intelligence in cyber policing can enhance proactive crime prevention while addressing concerns regarding data privacy and algorithmic bias.
Technological asymmetry: Rapid evolution of cybercrime tactics outpacing traditional policing frameworks
Data integrity risks: Challenges in ensuring the reliability of AI-driven evidence in judicial proceedings
Privacy-Security trade-off: Balancing intrusive surveillance capabilities with individual data protection rights
Why in news: A Maoist was killed in a joint security operation in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, contributing to a rising death toll of insurgents in the state this year.
The encounter took place in the Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh on a Thursday. Security forces recovered an AK-47 rifle during the operation. This marks the 23rd Maoist death in Chhattisgarh in 2026.
Prelims pointers (3)
Fact23 Maoist deaths recorded in Chhattisgarh as of February 2026
PlaceBijapur district is a primary site for Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) activities in Chhattisgarh
FactThe Centre has set a deadline of March 31st for the eradication of Left-Wing Extremism
Mains angle
Q. Analyze the multi-pronged strategy adopted by the Indian government to combat Left-Wing Extremism in the 'Red Corridor' and the hurdles in achieving total eradication.
Intelligence gap: Difficulty in identifying deep-cover Maoist cells in dense forest terrains
Developmental lag: Correlation between lack of infrastructure and recruitment by extremist groups
Security-Development nexus: Balancing kinetic operations with long-term socio-economic integration programs
Why in news: The Ministry of Home Affairs and Ladakh civil society leaders failed to reach a consensus during a meeting in New Delhi regarding demands for Statehood and Sixth Schedule inclusion.
The MHA proposed safeguards under Article 371 as an alternative to the Sixth Schedule demands. Ladakh civil society leaders also demanded the unconditional release of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and others detained following violence in Leh city last year.
Prelims pointers (2)
PostSonam Wangchuk: Climate activist detained following violence in Leh city.
FactLadakh Apex Body (LAB): The organization representing the civil society leaders in the talks.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the constitutional and administrative implications of providing special protections to Ladakh under Article 371 versus the Sixth Schedule.
Constitutional friction: Conflict between statehood aspirations and the specific protections of the Sixth Schedule.
Security-Development trade-off: Balancing the demand for local autonomy with the strategic importance of the Ladakh region.
Civilian-State dialogue: The role of civil society bodies in mediating demands for constitutional status in Union Territories.
Why in news: Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma announced plans for an underground rail link along the 'Chicken's Neck' corridor to secure the Northeast's connectivity.
The project involves laying underground railway tracks along a 40-km stretch of the 'Chicken's Neck' corridor in West Bengal. The initiative is supported by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to mitigate historical vulnerabilities in the region.
Prelims pointers (3)
PlaceChicken's Neck: A strategic corridor in West Bengal connecting the Northeast to the rest of India.
FactThe proposed underground rail link covers a 40-km corridor.
PostAshwini Vaishnaw: Union Minister of Railways.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the strategic importance of the 'Chicken's Neck' corridor in ensuring India's internal security and regional connectivity.
Geopolitical vulnerability: Addressing the narrow transit point's susceptibility to external and internal disruptions
Logistical resilience: Enhancing multi-modal connectivity to the Northeast through specialized underground infrastructure
Why in news: The Ministry of Home Affairs informed the Lok Sabha that LWE-related violence dropped by 88% between 2010 and 2025 due to security operations and development schemes.
Since 2019, 7,400 Maoists were arrested and 5,880 surrendered. In 2025 alone, security forces neutralized 364 Maoists and facilitated 2,337 surrenders.
Prelims pointers (4)
FactLWE-related violence dropped from 1,936 incidents in 2010 to 234 in 2025
FactNumber of LWE-affected districts decreased from 126 in 2018 to eight in December 2025
BodyMinistry of Home Affairs (MHA) is the nodal ministry for Left Wing Extremism
Fact364 Maoists were neutralized and 1,022 were arrested in 2025
Mains angle
Q. Analyze how the integration of infrastructure development and security operations has contributed to the declining trend of Left Wing Extremism in India.
Developmental intervention: Expansion of road networks and telecommunication connectivity as a tool for counter-insurgency
Security-led attrition: Impact of neutralized threats and surrender incentives on Maoist organizational structure
Geographic contraction: Shrinking of LWE-affected zones from 126 districts to eight
Keywords: Left Wing Extremism · Counter-insurgency · Internal Security · Developmental Model · Security Forces
Why in news: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted raids in the Kashmir Valley on February 3, 2026, to investigate a terror ecosystem involving former leaders and government employees.
The NIA conducted searches in Rafiabad, Sopore, Bomai, Bandipora, and Parimpora. Targets included former Jamaat-e-Islami leader Ghulam Ahmad Sheikh, former militant Iqbal Sheikh, and former government employees Mohammad Munwar Mir and Farooq Ahmad Peer.
Prelims pointers (3)
BodyNIA: National Investigation Agency is the primary counter-terrorism law enforcement agency in India
PlaceRafiabad, Sopore, Bomai, Bandipora, and Parimpora are locations in the Kashmir Valley
FactRaids conducted on February 3, 2026
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges faced by the NIA in dismantling terror ecosystems and the role of intelligence-led policing in maintaining internal security in Jammu and Kashmir.
Institutional coordination: Inter-agency intelligence sharing between NIA and local police forces
Legal framework: Balancing investigative powers of the NIA with individual privacy rights
Counter-radicalization: Addressing the nexus between extremist ideologies and administrative personnel
Why in news: Security forces in Manipur arrested two militants and seized weapons and explosives amidst ongoing ethnic violence since May 2023.
Security forces recovered an AK-47 rifle, pistols, and IED wires near Bongmol and SL Zougam villages. Two militants from the Peoples’ Liberation Army and Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup were arrested in Imphal West district.
Prelims pointers (4)
FactSeized weapons included an AK-47 rifle, pistols, and IED wires.
PlaceBongmol and SL Zougam villages are locations in Manipur where seizures occurred.
FactMilitants were arrested in the Imphal West district of Manipur.
FactThe Peoples’ Liberation Army and Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup are identified militant groups in the region.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges in maintaining internal security and communal harmony in Manipur amidst escalating ethnic violence and militant activity.
Intelligence gap: Difficulty in tracking non-state actors and illicit arms movement in hilly terrains
Institutional friction: Coordination challenges between central security forces and state police in conflict zones
Keywords: Internal Security · Insurgency · Ethnic Violence · Counter-terrorism · Law and Order
Why in news: The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) launched a synchronized 'Herof 2.0' offensive in Balochistan involving two female fidayeens targeting government infrastructure.
The BLA claimed over 100 Pakistani personnel casualties during the attacks. Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti reported the elimination of over 145 rebels in response.
Prelims pointers (3)
FactBLA: Baloch Liberation Army, an insurgent group active in the Balochistan province of Pakistan.
FactHerof 2.0: The name given by the BLA to the wave of synchronized attacks.
PostSarfraz Bugti: The Chief Minister of Balochistan.
Mains angle
Q. Analyze the factors contributing to the persistence of insurgency in Balochistan and the implications of asymmetric warfare on regional stability.
Asymmetric tactics: Use of female fidayeens to bypass security cordons and target civilian infrastructure.
Governance deficit: Link between perceived marginalization and the recruitment efficacy of insurgent groups like BLA.
Security-Development nexus: The challenge of balancing counter-insurgency operations with infrastructure development in volatile zones.
Why in news: The Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS) launched the third edition of the tri-services Future Warfare Course to align military operational priorities with indigenous defense industry capabilities.
The course is organized by HQ IDS in partnership with the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS). It is being held at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi from February 2nd to 25th, 2026.
Prelims pointers (4)
BodyHQ IDS: Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff is the body organizing the Future Warfare Course.
BodyCENJOWS: Centre for Joint Warfare Studies is the partner organization for the course.
PlaceManekshaw Centre: The venue for the tri-services Future Warfare Course in New Delhi.
FactThe course is currently in its third edition.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of integrating indigenous defense industry capabilities with military doctrines to counter rapid technological advancements in modern warfare.
Indigenization bottleneck: Balancing rapid technological procurement with the pace of domestic manufacturing capabilities
Doctrine evolution: Transitioning from conventional to tech-driven warfare paradigms in the Indian context
Why in news: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the Indian Coast Guard's role in Operation Sindoor and urged the formulation of a 2047 roadmap for maritime security.
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) celebrated its 50th Raising Day. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the ICG's role in Operation Sindoor and its use of advanced assets for western coast surveillance.
Prelims pointers (3)
PostRajnath Singh: Union Minister of Defence
FactIndian Coast Guard: Celebrated its 50th Raising Day in 2026
FactOperation Sindoor: Involved heightened surveillance along India's western coast
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of the Indian Coast Guard in securing India's maritime borders and the necessity of a long-term roadmap for maritime domain awareness.
Technological integration: Transitioning to advanced surveillance assets for real-time maritime threat detection
Manpower planning: Addressing personnel requirements for expanded maritime surveillance and deep-sea operations
Strategic autonomy: Strengthening maritime prowess to align with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision
Why in news: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) received a budget increase for the 2026-27 fiscal year, with specific allocations for the Intelligence Bureau, the first digital Population Census 2027
The MHA budget rose from ₹2,33,210 crore to ₹2,55,233.53 crore for FY 2026-27. The Intelligence Bureau (IB) received an additional ₹2,623 crore, while the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP) received an additional ₹300 crore.
Prelims pointers (5)
FactMHA budget for FY 2026-27: ₹2,55,233.53 crore
FactIntelligence Bureau (IB) additional allocation: ₹2,623 crore
SchemeVibrant Villages Programme (VVP): Allocated an additional ₹300 crore for border village development
FactPopulation Census 2027: First digital census with ₹6,000 crore allocation for 31 lakh enumerators
FactCAPF infrastructure increase: ₹1,000 crore
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of strengthening internal intelligence and border infrastructure in ensuring India's national security architecture.
Intelligence efficacy: Balancing real-time data collection with privacy concerns in the first digital census
Border resilience: Addressing demographic shifts and infrastructure gaps in frontier regions via Vibrant Villages Programme
Fiscal prioritization: Balancing internal security expenditures against developmental goals in the Union Budget
Why in news: Security forces launched a search operation in Samba, J&K, after a drone suspected to be from Pakistan was spotted hovering over Indian territory near Chillyari village.
The drone was sighted on Saturday near Chillyari village in Samba district and returned towards Pakistan. A similar sighting occurred on Friday in Ratanpur village of the Ramgarh sector.
Prelims pointers (3)
PlaceSamba district is located in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir
FactThe drone was spotted near Chillyari village and Ratanpur village
FactThe search operation aimed to check for airdropped weapons or narcotics
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges faced by Indian security forces in monitoring and neutralizing drone-based threats along the International Border with Pakistan.
Technological asymmetry: Difficulty in detecting small, low-altitude drones with conventional radar systems
Intelligence gap: Identifying the source and payload of drones operating in high-altitude and rugged terrain
Why in news: Security forces re-established contact with terrorists in the Dolgam area of Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, during a coordinated operation.
The operation involved the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). This marks the fourth time contact has been re-established with terrorists in the Kishtwar area within a fortnight.
Prelims pointers (2)
PlaceDolgam area is located in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir
FactFour instances of contact re-establishment occurred in the Kishtwar area within a fortnight
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges faced by security forces in counter-insurgency operations in the hilly terrains of Jammu and Kashmir.
Terrain constraints: Difficulties in maintaining persistent surveillance and rapid mobility in high-altitude and rugged topography
Intelligence integration: Challenges in real-time data sharing between state police and central paramilitary forces
Why in news: Karnataka government announced plans to establish an Integrated Command Centre (K4C) to enhance its Cyber Command Unit (CCU) using AI-driven policing to combat cybercrime.
The K4C project is estimated to cost ₹400 crore and will house 176 specialists across 11 verticals. It aims to reduce cybercrime losses by 30% and increase convictions by 50% within a three-month implementation timeline.
Prelims pointers (4)
FactK4C project estimated cost: ₹400 crore
FactTarget: 30% reduction in cybercrime losses and 50% increase in convictions
S&TK4C will include AI-powered innovation labs and a 24x7 security operations center
BodyK4C is inspired by FBI's RCFL and INTERPOL's IGCI
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the role of AI-driven policing and integrated command centres in mitigating the growing challenges of cybercrime and information disorder in India.
Technological gap: Need for high-end AI infrastructure and specialized human capital to counter sophisticated cyber-threats
Jurisdictional hurdles: Challenges in inter-state data sharing and legal frameworks for prosecuting cross-border cybercrimes
Keywords: Cybersecurity · AI-driven policing · Information disorder · Integrated Command Centre · Digital forensics
Why in news: The Delhi High Court questioned the DGCA regarding the indefinite relaxation of flight-duty norms that allowed IndiGo to substitute weekly rest with leave to avoid operational disruptions.
The Delhi High Court is reviewing the DGCA's decision to withdraw the rule prohibiting the substitution of weekly rest with leave. The court is seeking the rationale for this relaxation, which was initially implemented to ensure flight continuity.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the trade-offs between ensuring aviation operational efficiency and maintaining stringent safety protocols regarding pilot fatigue management in civil aviation.
Safety-Efficiency Paradox: Balancing flight schedule continuity against the physiological risks of pilot fatigue
Regulatory Oversight: Ensuring DGCA maintains independent safety standards against commercial pressure from airlines
Standardization Gap: Risks of inconsistent duty-hour interpretations across different domestic carriers
Why in news: The Guwahati Refinery, owned by Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), supplied smokeless fuel to the Indian armed forces during Operation Sindoor.
The Guwahati Refinery supplied 19 thousand metric tonnes of Low Sulphur Low Aromatics SKO (LSLA SKO) to the Indian armed forces. This specialized fuel was developed specifically to meet the army's requirement for smoke-free fuel suitable for high-altitude locations.
Prelims pointers (3)
FactGuwahati Refinery supplied 19 thousand metric tonnes of smokeless fuel during Operation Sindoor
S&TLSLA SKO (Low Sulphur Low Aromatics SKO) is a specialized smokeless fuel developed for high-altitude use
BodyIndian Oil Corporation (IOC) owns the Guwahati Refinery
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of indigenous fuel technology in enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces in high-altitude terrains.
Logistical autonomy: Reducing dependence on external fuel sources for specialized high-altitude operations
Operational efficiency: Minimizing environmental impact and visibility through smokeless fuel technology
Why in news: The Government of Manipur announced a target to resettle over 40,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) by March to address the humanitarian crisis in the state.
The Manipur government has allocated ₹124 crore for the resettlement of IDPs and has already rehabilitated over 3,700 families. A State-Level Committee and district-level committees are overseeing the rehabilitation process, which includes livelihood restoration and education.
Prelims pointers (4)
FactThe Manipur government aims to resettle over 40,000 IDPs by March.
Fact₹124 crore has been allocated by the Manipur government for IDP rehabilitation.
FactOver 3,700 families have already been rehabilitated by the state government.
BodyA State-Level Committee and district-level committees oversee the resettlement process in Manipur.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges in rehabilitating internally displaced persons (IDPs) in conflict-affected regions and the role of multi-tier governance in ensuring their long-term socio-economic integration.
Institutional coordination: Balancing state-level oversight with district-level execution for localized rehabilitation
Socio-economic integration: Addressing the dual challenge of physical resettlement and restoring lost livelihoods/education
Security-Development nexus: Ensuring community well-being while maintaining stability in volatile regions
Why in news: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted raids on nine locations in Kerala to gather evidence against the proscribed Popular Front of India (PFI) regarding a criminal conspiracy case.
The NIA registered the case in September 2022 against the PFI for criminal conspiracy and acts aimed at spreading violent jihad. The investigation alleges the PFI established wings to train and radicalize youth in weapon handling and acts of terror to establish Islamic rule by 2047.
Prelims pointers (3)
BodyNIA: National Investigation Agency is the primary counter-terrorism law enforcement agency in India
FactThe NIA conducted raids on nine locations in Kerala as part of the investigation
FactThe NIA case against PFI was registered in September 2022
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the role of the National Investigation Agency in countering radicalization and internal security threats posed by proscribed organizations in India.
Intelligence gap: Challenges in identifying clandestine radicalization cells and weapon training wings
Legal framework: Balancing national security imperatives with the protection of civil liberties during counter-terrorism probes
Why in news: India celebrated its 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026, featuring a military parade showcasing missiles, warplanes, and weapon systems used in Operation Sindoor.
The parade took place on January 26, 2026, to mark the 77th Republic Day. It featured newly-raised units and lethal weapon systems specifically highlighted for their role in Operation Sindoor.
Prelims pointers (3)
FactIndia celebrated its 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026
S&TThe parade showcased missiles, warplanes, and lethal weapon systems
FactWeapon systems displayed were those used during Operation Sindoor
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of military parades in showcasing India's defense capabilities and their role in deterring regional threats.
Strategic signaling: Projecting technological parity in missile and aviation systems to regional adversaries
Defense modernization: Transitioning from conventional to high-lethality weapon systems for rapid response
Keywords: National Security · Defense Capabilities · Strategic Deterrence · Military Modernization
Why in news: Security forces expanded a combing operation in Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir, following a gunfight in the Janseer-Kandiwar forest area involving suspected Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists.
The encounter occurred in the Chatroo belt of Kishtwar district. Security forces deployed helicopters, drones, and sniffer dogs to track down two or three individuals believed to be affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM).
Prelims pointers (3)
PlaceKishtwar district is located in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
FactThe Janseer-Kandiwar forest area was the site of the recent gunfight.
FactThe operation involved the use of helicopters, drones, and sniffer dogs for tracking.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges faced by security forces in counter-insurgency operations in the high-altitude and forested terrains of Jammu and Kashmir.
Terrain constraints: Difficulty in surveillance and rapid response in high-altitude forest belts
Intelligence gap: Challenges in identifying and neutralizing small, mobile terrorist cells in remote areas
Why in news: Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya reported that only 467 out of 1.7 lakh declared illegal foreigners have been repatriated to date.
Assam referred 4.35 lakh cases of suspected nationality to Foreigners Tribunals. Out of these, nearly 1.7 lakh people were declared as illegal foreigners.
Prelims pointers (3)
Fact467 illegal foreigners repatriated from Assam to date
Fact1.7 lakh people declared as illegal foreigners out of 4.35 lakh cases referred
PlaceAssam: State reporting significant decline in crime rates since 2021
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges in the repatriation of declared illegal foreigners in border states and the role of Foreigners Tribunals in maintaining national security.
Administrative bottleneck: Logistical hurdles in identifying and repatriating large volumes of declared illegal foreigners
Why in news: CRPF Assistant Commandant Simran Bala became the first female officer to command an all-male contingent during the Republic Day parade in New Delhi.
Simran Bala, a 26-year-old officer from Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir, led a squad of 147 personnel. She joined the CRPF less than a year ago and is currently posted in Chhattisgarh.
Prelims pointers (3)
PostSimran Bala: Assistant Commandant in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
FactThe contingent commanded by Simran Bala consisted of 147 personnel
PlaceSimran Bala hails from Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of increasing female representation in India's internal security forces and the challenges associated with their integration into combat and paramilitary roles.
Institutional shift: Transition from peripheral roles to frontline command positions in paramilitary forces
Societal barrier: Addressing gender-based stereotypes in high-intensity security environments
Operational integration: Balancing gender-sensitive infrastructure with rigorous physical and tactical requirements
Why in news: President Droupadi Murmu approved 70 gallantry awards, including the Vishisht Sewa Medal for Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, for roles during Operation Sindoor.
The President approved 70 gallantry awards for Armed Forces personnel on the eve of the 77th Republic Day. The awards include six posthumous honors, including an Ashok Chakra for Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla.
Prelims pointers (4)
PostColonel Sofiya Qureshi: Recipient of the Vishisht Sewa Medal for role in Operation Sindoor
Fact70 gallantry awards approved for Armed Forces personnel
S&TGroup Captain Shubhanshu Shukla: First Indian to visit the International Space Station (ISS)
Fact77th Republic Day
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of gallantry awards in bolstering the morale of the Armed Forces and ensuring the recognition of diverse roles in national security operations.
Institutional recognition: Formalizing the contribution of diverse personnel in high-stakes operations
Morale building: Psychological impact of state honors on operational readiness
Operational transparency: Balancing public recognition of gallantry with security sensitivities
Keywords: Gallantry awards · Operational recognition · National security · Armed Forces morale · State honors
Why in news: The President of India awarded the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service to Shanawaz Abdul Shahab (Kerala Police) and Rajendranath M. (Kerala Fire and Rescue Services) during Republic Day celebrations.
Shanawaz Abdul Shahab is a Superintendent of Police in the State Special Branch, Kerala Police. Rajendranath M. is a Tanur Station Officer in the Kerala Fire and Rescue Services. The awards recognize outstanding service across India.
Prelims pointers (3)
PostShanawaz Abdul Shahab: Superintendent of Police, State Special Branch, Kerala Police
PostRajendranath M.: Tanur Station Officer, Kerala Fire and Rescue Services
FactTen police officers and officials from Kerala Fire and Rescue Services and Kerala Prisons and Correctional Services received medals for Meritorious Service
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of recognizing uniformed services in national security and disaster management frameworks to enhance public trust and institutional morale.
Institutional morale: Recognition as a tool for motivating frontline personnel in high-risk environments
Public trust: Enhancing the perception of police and fire services as reliable public safety pillars
Keywords: meritorious service · public safety · institutional recognition · uniformed services
Why in news: The government announced that 982 personnel from various security forces were awarded gallantry and service medals on the eve of Republic Day 2026.
A total of 982 personnel from police, fire services, home guard, and correctional services received medals. Out of these, 125 awards were specifically for bravery in saving life/property or preventing crime, with the highest concentration in the Jammu and Kashmir operations theater.
Prelims pointers (4)
Fact982 personnel were awarded gallantry and service medals on the eve of Republic Day 2026
Fact125 awards were specifically for acts of bravery in saving life/property or preventing crime
FactCRPF received the highest number of bravery citations among Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs)
FactMaharashtra Police received the second-highest number of gallantry medals
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of recognizing gallantry and service awards in maintaining the morale of internal security forces and ensuring public safety.
Institutional recognition: Strengthening the psychological resilience and motivation of frontline personnel in high-risk zones
Operational focus: Addressing the disproportionate security challenges and crime prevention requirements in the Jammu and Kashmir theater
Keywords: Gallantry Awards · Internal Security · Morale Building · Public Safety · CAPF
Why in news: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) requested the blocking of a viral video depicting a killing in Manipur to prevent a disturbance of public order.
The MHA requested Meta, Google, and YouTube to remove a video of the January 21 killing of Mayanglambam Rishikant Singh. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) issued the blocking order on January 22 under the Information Technology Act.
Prelims pointers (3)
BodyMeitY: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology is the body responsible for issuing blocking orders.
FactThe blocking order was issued on January 22 following the January 21 incident.
PostDirector General (DIT), Cyber Laws & e-Security: The official through whom the State must serve notices.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the balance between the state's power to regulate online content for public order and the fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression.
Regulatory friction: Conflict between state-level security concerns and central government's oversight of digital platforms.
Legal ambiguity: Challenges in defining 'public order' as a ground for blocking specific visual content under the IT Act.
Platform accountability: The role of private intermediaries in policing content during periods of civil unrest.
Keywords: Public Order · Digital Governance · Freedom of Speech · Content Regulation · Information Technology Act
Why in news: A top Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) leader, Usman alias ‘Abu Maviya’, was killed in a joint security operation in the Kathua-Udhampur belt of Jammu and Kashmir.
The operation was a joint effort by the JK Police, Indian Army, and CRPF. The deceased terrorist, Usman alias ‘Abu Maviya’, was a Pakistan-based JeM leader active in the Udhampur-Kathua belt.
Prelims pointers (4)
FactUsman alias ‘Abu Maviya’ was identified as a top leader of the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist group.
PlaceThe encounter took place in the Kathua and Udhampur belt of Jammu and Kashmir.
BodyThe operation involved a joint effort between the JK Police, the Indian Army, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
PlaceSecurity forces are currently conducting search operations in the Chatroo belt of Kishtwar district.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges faced by Indian security forces in neutralizing infiltration and terror activities in the Jammu and Kashmir border regions.
Intelligence gap: Difficulty in tracking cross-border infiltration and identifying high-value targets in rugged terrain
Inter-agency coordination: Necessity of seamless real-time data sharing between State Police, Army, and Central Armed Police Forces
Why in news: Simran Bala, a 26-year-old CRPF Assistant Commandant from Jammu and Kashmir, will lead an all-male contingent of over 140 personnel during the Republic Day parade in Delhi.
Simran Bala joined the CRPF in April 2025 after graduating from Government College for Women in Jammu. She was awarded best officer in training and public speaking subjects at the CRPF academy.
Prelims pointers (3)
PostSimran Bala: Assistant Commandant in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
FactThe contingent commanded by Ms. Bala consists of over 140 personnel
PlaceGovernment College for Women is located in Jammu
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of increasing female representation in command positions within India's internal security forces and its impact on institutional inclusivity.
Institutional shift: Transition from peripheral roles to frontline command positions for women in paramilitary forces
Societal representation: Breaking gender stereotypes in high-visibility national events like the Republic Day parade
Why in news: The Indian Army was deployed in Kokrajhar district, Assam, following mob violence and clashes between Bodo and Adivasi communities.
The violence in Kokrajhar district resulted in two deaths and led to arson, road blockages, and attacks on police stations. The district administration has established relief camps and imposed prohibitory orders.
Prelims pointers (3)
PlaceKokrajhar: A district in the state of Assam.
FactThe Rapid Action Force (RAF) was deployed on the ground prior to the Army's arrival.
FactThe violence involved clashes between Bodo and Adivasi communities.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges in managing ethnic and tribal conflicts in Northeast India and the role of security forces in maintaining communal harmony.
Identity politics: Competition over land and resources between indigenous Bodo and Adivasi groups
Security-Development nexus: Balancing heavy security presence with long-term socio-economic integration of tribal communities