UPSC Notes

Counter-Terrorism Measures and Technology in Policing

PYQs

8

Articles

1

Momentum

21

Phase IFoundation

Background

Overview

Terrorism is a persistent internal security threat. UPSC examines the strategies, challenges, and technological advancements in India's counter-terrorism efforts, and their implications for governance and civil liberties (GS3, GS2).

Counter-terrorism measures involve a range of strategies, policies, and actions taken by governments and security agencies to prevent, deter, and respond to acts of terrorism, increasingly integrating advanced technologies for surveillance, intelligence gathering, and operational efficiency.

Phase IIStatic core

Facts & tables

Key facts

Key Strategies

Intelligence gathering, proactive operations, area domination, dismantling terror networks.

Technological Tools

Advanced surveillance systems, facial recognition, real-time monitoring, anti-sabotage equipment.

Objective

Enhance security, prevent attacks, ensure public safety, especially during vulnerable events.

Challenges

Balancing security with privacy, adapting to evolving threats, resource allocation.

Reference table

Static syllabus anchors

TypeReference
Conceptual areaInternal Security
Conceptual areaCyber Security

Reference table

Institutions & roles

BodyRole
J&K PoliceImplements
Central Armed Police ForcesImplements
Phase IIIExam lens

Prelims angle

Overview

Prelims angle: Factual recall

Prelims angle: Conceptual understanding

Quick revision

  • Strategies: intelligence, proactive operations, area domination.
  • Tech tools: surveillance, facial recognition, real-time monitoring.
  • Aim: prevent terror attacks, secure vulnerable events.
  • Involves coordination between central and state forces.
  • Raises concerns about privacy and civil liberties.

High-confidence PYQs

Topic timeline

Internal SecurityCyber Security

89 additional CAPF units, advanced surveillance, real-time monitoring for safe Amarnath yatra this year

30 May 2026 · Counter-terrorism involves proactive strategies, intelligence, and increasingly, advanced technologies like surveillance and real-time monitoring to prevent attacks and secure public spaces, posing challenges for balancing security and privacy.

Read article

Related topics

Current topic

Counter-Terrorism Measures and Technology in Policing

Practice writing on this topic

UPSC has asked 8 linked questions on Counter-Terrorism Measures and Technology in Policing in Mains. Write an answer to one — and get it evaluated.