India Launches ‘PRAHAAR’ National Counter-Terror Policy, Sets Unified Strategy Against Evolving Threats
The Ministry of Home Affairs has unveiled India’s first comprehensive national counter-terrorism policy titled ‘PRAHAAR’, establishing a structured framework to tackle emerging security challenges including cross-border terrorism, drone-enabled attacks and cyber threats. Officials described the strategy as a major milestone that formalises a unified approach to counter-terror efforts already evolving across agencies.
The eight-page document reiterates India’s zero-tolerance stance on terrorism while emphasising that acts of terror cannot be linked to any religion, ethnicity or nationality. The policy also highlights support for victims and strict adherence to the rule of law and human rights.
The PRAHAAR framework — meaning “strike” — is built around seven pillars: prevention of attacks, swift and proportionate response, capacity-building across security agencies, human-rights-compliant operations, addressing radicalisation, strengthening international cooperation and promoting societal resilience.
The strategy outlines persistent threats such as cross-border infiltration, sleeper-cell activation by global extremist groups including Al-Qaeda and ISIS, and the increasing use of technology by terror handlers. Officials noted growing convergence between organised crime and terror networks, particularly in financing, recruitment and logistics.
Digital platforms, encrypted messaging, the dark web and cryptocurrencies have been identified as major enablers of propaganda and operational coordination. The document also flags risks related to chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and cyber capabilities.
Security experts view the policy as an institutional consolidation of India’s long-standing counter-terror approach. The framework designates intelligence coordination bodies such as the Multi Agency Centre and the Joint Task Force on Intelligence as central nodes for real-time information sharing and threat assessment.
Operational responsibilities have been clearly defined: local police as first responders, specialised state units for tactical support and elite forces like the National Security Guard for major incidents. Investigations will continue to be led by the National Investigation Agency, with emphasis on improving conviction rates.
Officials highlighted the policy’s focus on dismantling support ecosystems, including overground worker networks, illegal arms supply chains and terror financing channels.
The PRAHAAR strategy signals a shift toward a whole-of-government and whole-of-society model, encouraging collaboration between security agencies, private sector stakeholders and civil society. Border management will incorporate advanced surveillance across land, maritime and aerial domains, while critical infrastructure — from power grids to space assets — will receive enhanced protection.
The policy also stresses preventive measures against radicalisation through community outreach, youth engagement, prison monitoring and socio-economic interventions. Internationally, India aims to strengthen intelligence sharing, pursue extradition of suspects and support global designation of terrorist entities at the United Nations.
Looking ahead, the framework calls for periodic legal reforms, modernisation of equipment, improved investigative expertise and greater investment in emerging technologies to counter future threats.
By formalising PRAHAAR, India has outlined a forward-looking blueprint designed to address both traditional and technologically driven terror risks. The strategy reflects an effort to institutionalise coordination, enhance preparedness and build long-term resilience against evolving security challenges.
Our Final Thoughts
The launch of PRAHAAR marks a significant step in consolidating India’s counter-terrorism architecture at a time when security threats are increasingly hybrid and technology-driven. By combining prevention, rapid response and institutional coordination, the policy attempts to move beyond reactive measures toward sustained resilience. Its emphasis on human rights and community engagement indicates recognition that security frameworks must address social factors alongside operational readiness. The integration of cyber and drone threats also reflects the evolving nature of terrorism globally. Implementation, however, will determine the policy’s effectiveness, particularly in ensuring coordination across states and agencies. If backed by sustained investment and periodic review, PRAHAAR could shape India’s long-term security posture and contribute to global counter-terror cooperation.