India Unveils ‘Prahaar’ National Counter-Terrorism Strategy

New Delhi – In a significant move to bolster national security, India’s Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) unveiled its first comprehensive National Counter-Terrorism Policy and Strategy, dubbed ‘Prahaar,’ on February 23, 2026. This policy marks a shift from reactive, fragmented security measures to a unified, doctrinal framework designed to enhance coordination across India’s security apparatus.

Addressing Evolving Threats

The ‘Prahaar’ strategy acknowledges the evolving landscape of terrorism and the increasing misuse of the internet by terrorists and violent extremists for communication, recruitment, and the propagation of extremist ideologies [1]. The policy aims to address these challenges through a multi-pronged approach.

Key Components of ‘Prahaar’

The MHA’s new counter-terrorism policy focuses on several key areas:

• Policy Formulation & Coordination: The Counter Terrorism and Counter Radicalization (CTCR) Division within the MHA is central to formulating policies, coordinating efforts, and implementing counter-terrorism measures [4].
• Monitoring & Intelligence: The CTCR Division actively monitors terror financing, online radicalization, and extremist activities, working in close collaboration with central and state agencies [4].
• Legal Framework: The strategy leverages existing legal frameworks, including the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act, 2008 (and its amendments), and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (and its amendments) [4].
• International Cooperation: ‘Prahaar’ emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in combating terrorism.

Legislative Tools

Several Acts are crucial to India’s counter-terrorism efforts:

• The National Investigation Agency Act, 2008 (Amended) [4]
• The National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Act, 2019 [4]
• The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Act, 2019 [4]

‘Zero Tolerance’ Approach

The Ministry of Home Affairs has articulated a “zero tolerance” stance towards terrorism, signaling a firm commitment to safeguarding national security [2]. The ‘Prahaar’ strategy is intended to operationalize this commitment.

Challenges Ahead

Whereas ‘Prahaar’ represents a significant step forward, the successful implementation of a holistic counter-terrorism doctrine across India’s diverse security landscape will require sustained effort, and coordination.