The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by our adversaries across the borders to ferry arms / ammunitions, drugs, etc., is a serious threat to the internal security. Comment on the measures being taken to tackle this threat.

The use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or drones by adversaries for illicit activities poses a severe threat to India’s internal security. These UAVs can bypass conventional security checks, making them suitable for smuggling weapons, ammunition, and drugs.

Measures Taken by India to Tackle this Threat:

1. Anti-Drone Technology: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is in the process of developing counter-drone technology. It focuses on providing a soft-kill option (signal jamming) and a hard-kill option (using lasers to shoot down drones).
2. Radar Systems: Advanced radar systems have been deployed at sensitive locations to detect and track the movement of small drones.
3. Training and Workshops: Security forces are receiving training to understand the operational capabilities of drones and the potential threats they pose.
4. Regulatory Framework: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has laid out guidelines and policies for drone operations in India. It mandates the “no permission, no takeoff” (NPNT) system, ensuring every drone flight happens only with prior approval.
5. Border Surveillance: Night vision devices, thermal imagers, and more patrolling teams have been deployed in border areas, especially along the India-Pakistan border.
6. Collaboration: India has been actively collaborating with international partners to gather intelligence and expertise on tackling drone threats.

In conclusion, while UAVs pose a new kind of threat, India is making steadfast progress in developing mechanisms to detect, deter, and neutralize malicious drone activities to safeguard its internal security.