New Delhi, June 23:
A major overhaul of the intelligence-gathering mechanism is on the cards, with a unified structure being put in place for Jammu and Kashmir and the Northeastern states. The move comes amid growing concerns over the increasing use of drones by terror operatives and their handlers to conduct reconnaissance missions in both regions.
National security planners have recommended a balanced blend of technological surveillance and human intelligence to maintain an edge over terror groups operating in these regions. Drawing lessons from the successful counter-insurgency campaign against Maoists, they have decided to adopt similar strategies in tackling terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir as well as the Northeastern states.
An Intelligence Bureau official explained that when it came to the battle against Maoists, there were multiple factors that were in play. “The human intelligence was very strong, and the locals were completely on board. Further, technical intelligence remained solid. This ensured that real-time inputs gathered on the ground could be swiftly analysed, verified, and disseminated to security forces, enabling prompt action and contributing significantly to the success of operations,” the official said.
The official said that in the Northeast and Jammu and Kashmir, terror groups have been quickly evolving their strategy. The terror groups reportedly are using a combination of both human and technical surveillance to mark territory. The use of high-quality drones is also a major concern for the security agencies.