Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan says India's internal security landscape transformed

Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan has declared that India's internal security framework has undergone an irrevocable shift, with foreign-inspired terrorism contained to isolated pockets and homegrown terror networks virtually eliminated.

Addressing the passing out parade of the 78th batch of Indian Police Service probationers at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in Hyderabad, Mohan highlighted how years of firm governance and improved intelligence coordination have brought stability across previously volatile regions.

Assessment of internal security threats

Mohan pointed out that militant Naxalism has come to an end, while insurgency in the North East has fallen to minuscule levels. Most former insurgent groups have joined the mainstream following successful ceasefire and tripartite agreements signed with the government. He noted that ongoing disturbances in parts of the North East stem from local ethnic conflicts rather than active insurgency.

Relaying a message from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the Home Secretary reinforced the Centre's zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism. He called on newly commissioned police officers to enforce time-bound action and leverage modern intelligence systems to protect the nation's borders.

Emerging challenges and digital threats

With traditional security threats largely subdued, the Centre is directing law enforcement focus toward modern technological and socio-economic challenges. Mohan warned that young officers will face complex battlefields involving narcotics trafficking, cybercrime, and illegal immigration.

He highlighted how digital tools are being weaponised, pointing to deepfake videos, altered reality content, and disinformation campaigns designed to provoke illegal gatherings and disrupt public order. He also cited cases of anonymous crime, including hit jobs advertised on dark net platforms and extortion calls made through virtual private networks.

To counter these threats, the government is rolling out the Smart Border Initiative, integrating digital surveillance and advanced technology across border security agencies. A specialized network of IPS officers utilizing artificial intelligence has also been established to modernize policing capabilities across states.

Future priorities and regional cooperation

Addressing drug networks, Mohan reiterated the government's commitment to creating a drug-free nation within three years under the 'Nasha-Mukt Bharat' campaign. On illegal immigration, he affirmed that while India upholds international goodwill, national resources belong primarily to Indian citizens.

The domestic security achievements align with India's broader regional security push. Speaking recently at the BIMSTEC Home Ministers' Meeting in New Delhi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah called for united regional action to dismantle terrorist funding networks and prevent insurgents from finding safe havens across international borders.