India’s National Security Challenges in the context of Cross-border terrorism

By Samriddhi Shet, Tarisha Delisha P Varghese, Swastika Sahoo.

Introduction

Terrorism has become a major threat to both national and international security, destabilizing peace across borders. India, facing cross-border terrorism, struggles with external and internal security challenges. Terrorism in India takes two forms: domestic, arising from ethnic, religious, and socioeconomic issues, and external, with foreign sponsorship. The insurgency in the Northeast, the Khalistan movement in Punjab, and ongoing cross-border terrorism from Pakistan, particularly in Jammu & Kashmir, highlight this complex issue. These conflicts have persisted due to external support, especially from neighboring countries. India shares borders with six countries, and except for Bhutan, all face the threat of terrorism. Seventeen states have international borders, while nine have maritime boundaries.

The threat of cross-border terrorism is not limited to land borders but extends to coastal areas, as evidenced by the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, which were perpetrated by Pakistan-based terrorists. These attacks led to severe economic damage, with losses estimated at $100 billion and a $20 billion drop in foreign direct investment.

 Cross-border terrorism is not only an immediate security concern but also affects long-term economic stability and national morale. The government has deployed Border Security Forces to tackle this issue, but the challenges persist due to ideological divides between state and non-state actors. Terrorism disrupts governance, undermines peace, and affects civilians, who bear the brunt of violence. In this context, regions like Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, and the Northeast remain focal points of cross-border terrorism, with the potential to spill over into other areas.

Origins of Cross Border Terrorism

India’s relationship with terrorism and violent extremism can be traced back to the religion-based partition that happened in 1947, which tore apart the subcontinent into two nations: India and Pakistan. The subcontinent remained witness to the most horrifying ethnic riots in modern history, which were marked by extreme violence and acts of terrorism. Following the partition, after a brief period of neutrality, the then Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), Hari Singh, formally acceded to India; however, this act of accession has not and continues not to be recognized by Pakistan, which lays claims to the Muslim majority region. This territorial dispute lies at the core of the long-standing conflict between the two nations, with both nations each vehemently rejecting the other’s claims. In addition, considering the number of ongoing insurgencies in India, terrorism and violent extremism are also manifestations of political-religious violence, ethnic-subregional nationalism, socio-economic conditions, and politics of identity.

Evolution of Cross-Border Terrorism

Cross-border terrorism refers to acts of terrorism that transcend international borders, often involving state or non-state actors. Over the decades, this threat has evolved in terms of scale, tactics, and objectives, posing significant challenges to India’s national security. Recognizing these shifts is vital for formulating effective countermeasures.

Historical Evolution of CBT

Conventional Infiltration (1947–1980s). The origins of cross-border terrorism in India began with the tribal invasion of Jammu and Kashmir in 1947, marking the first instances of Pakistan-backed militancy. Early terrorism involved direct infiltration into Indian territory, notably in Kashmir.

Rise of Proxy Warfare (1980s–2000s). In the 1980s, Pakistan shifted to a proxy warfare strategy, arming and training groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). This period saw the intensification of the Kashmir insurgency, with significant support from across the border, escalating security challenges for India.

Global Terrorism Impact (2000s Onwards). Following the 9/11 attacks, global attention on terrorism increased, yet India’s struggle with groups like Al-Qaeda and the Taliban remained underreported. High-profile attacks, such as the 2008 Mumbai attacks, showcased the sophisticated methods used by terrorists, including maritime routes and advanced communication technologies.

Technological Shift (2010s–Present). As terrorism adapts to the digital age, new technologies are now a key feature of cross-border terror activities. Cyberattacks, recruitment via social media, and encrypted communication networks have become standard tactics. In addition, the use of drones for smuggling arms and narcotics across borders, particularly in Punjab and Jammu, highlights the evolving nature of this threat and the challenges it poses to security forces.

Key Trends in Cross-Border Terrorism

Cross-border terrorism has evolved with new tactics and technologies, posing significant challenges to India’s security. This section explores key trends, such as the use of non-state actors, hybrid warfare, and technological advancements, highlighting their growing impact on national and international security.

Key Trends

Use of non-state actors. Groups like LeT, JeM, and Hizbul Mujahideen operate with tacit support from Pakistan’s intelligence agency, ISI. These groups exploit local grievances in Kashmir to recruit and radicalize youth.

Hybrid Warfare. Terrorism is now part of a broader strategy that includes cyberattacks, propaganda campaigns, and economic sabotage. Fake news and online radicalization are increasingly used to create unrest and divide communities.

Weaponization of Technology. Terrorists use drones for arms delivery, surveillance, and even potential bio-attacks. Cryptocurrency enables anonymous funding of terrorist activities.

Maritime and border security breaches. Coastal infiltration has increased, as seen in the Mumbai attacks. Porous borders with Bangladesh and Myanmar also serve as routes for illegal arms and militants.

Radicalization through ideology. Extremist ideologies propagate violence, leveraging religious sentiments and political discontent. Online platforms amplify radical narratives, making it easier to recruit from urban and rural India.

Examples supporting the evolution

1. Kargil Conflict (1999). Showed the shift from sporadic infiltrations to larger, coordinated incursions.
2. Pathankot Air Base Attack (2016). Illustrated the use of technology for logistical coordination from across the border.
3. Pulwama Attack (2019). Highlighted local radicalization and large-scale planning with external support.

Implications

1. Increased Security Challenges: The blend of physical and cyber threats complicates counter-terrorism efforts.
2. Strained International Relations: Persistent cross-border terrorism impacts India’s diplomatic ties with Pakistan and requires global cooperation.
3. Socio-Economic Impact: Frequent terror attacks disrupt economic activities, tourism, and communal harmony in affected regions.

Impact on India’s National Security

Cross-border terrorism has far-reaching implications for India’s security architecture. It undermines sovereignty and affects the nation’s economic stability, social harmony, and international reputation. This section explores the key impacts of crossborder terrorism on India’s national security.

Key Impacts

National Sovereignty. Persistent infiltrations and terror strikes directly challenge India’s territorial integrity. Incidents like the Uri and Pulwama attacks exemplify this threat.

Economic Disruption. The frequent diversion of resources, both economic and human capital, toward defense and counterterrorism affects development initiatives. More crucial sectors like health, education, and infrastructure are neglected, thus affecting efficiency and the ability to exploit and maximize the country’s potential in the long run. The heavy focus on terrorism-related crises would sideline border and regional economic reforms. Tourism in states like Jammu and Kashmir has faced long-term setbacks due to security concerns.

Additional Insights

India faces a complex challenge from cyberterrorism, regional insurgencies, and the need for global cooperation. This overview highlights the role of technology, regional security issues, and international alliances in addressing terrorism.

Cyberterrorism and Technology Integration

Cyberterrorism is a growing threat, with terrorist groups exploiting the digital space for cyberattacks, propaganda, and recruitment. In India, extremist organizations utilize encrypted messaging platforms and social media to radicalize youth and incite violence. Instances of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, such as power grids and financial systems, have been reported. Technologies like drones are also being used for arms delivery and reconnaissance. India has strengthened its cybersecurity frameworks, such as the National Cyber Security Policy, and invested in artificial intelligence for early threat detection. The main challenge remains countering the anonymity offered by these platforms.

Regional Dimensions beyond Pakistan

While much attention is given to Pakistan’s role in cross-border terrorism, other regions contribute significantly. Insurgencies in India’s northeast are fueled by groups operating from Myanmar, China, and Bangladesh. Illegal migration and porous borders worsen security in states like Assam and Tripura. Smuggling of arms, narcotics, and human trafficking also complicate the situation. China’s support for certain groups adds a geopolitical dimension. In response, India is improving border infrastructure, conducting joint operations with neighboring countries, and promoting regional cooperation through platforms like BIMSTEC and the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation initiative.

Role of International Cooperation

India’s fight against terrorism requires global support. Diplomacy plays a key role in pressuring countries that harbour terrorist groups. India has pushed for comprehensive conventions on terrorism at the United Nations and strengthened ties with nations like the U.S., Israel, and France for intelligence sharing. Organizations like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) are vital in curbing terror financing. However, challenges remain, such as China’s veto on designating specific terrorists. Strengthening multilateral forums and building global coalitions are critical for increasing accountability on terrorism issues.

Conclusion

Cross-border terrorism remains a massive security challenge for India, affecting its sovereignty, economic development, and social harmony. When it evolved from infiltration through the borders to advanced technology and hybrid warfare, it took on a different trend. In light of changing terrorist tactics, even more concerning is the well-established and high-profile association of states like Pakistan with terrorism; the presence of regional insurgencies and global terrorist networks helps worsen the situation and thus challenges the security establishment to an unimaginable level. Cyberterrorism, coupled with drones, then introduces a new dimension to terrorism and makes efforts towards counter-terrorism very complicated.

While India has done much to strengthen its internal security and regional cooperation, a more comprehensive integrated approach is still necessary. Diplomacy, international cooperation, and relying on the “modern tools” themselves must be underpinned by a more comprehensive counterterrorism strategy. Equally wide-reaching should be the other aspects of terrorist-originating activities, therefore targeting the root causes of terrorism—ideological radicalization, socio-economic disparities, and political instability.

With institutional reforms, enhancing the role of the citizenry, and creating global alliances, India would strive to secure its citizens and democratic values. And victory, in this ever-evolving environment of cross-border terror, rests entirely on unity and proactivity—in particular, the two bearers of long-term peace, security, and stability.

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