Answer

Global terrorism refers to politically motivated violence that transcends national borders to instill fear. ISIS, which at its peak controlled vast territories in the Middle East, and al-Qaeda, infamous for the 9/11 attacks, are prime examples. Digital radicalization is the online process of extremist indoctrination, significantly challenging the robustness of state internal security systems.

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New Security Challenges Due to Resurgence of Terror Groups and Digital Radicalization

• Decentralized Terror Networks: The weakening of al-Qaeda and ISIS has led to decentralized, self-radicalized groups operating independently, making counter-terrorism efforts complex.
  For example: The Islamic State-Khorasan Province (ISKP) has expanded its footprint beyond Afghanistan, attacking targets in Pakistan, Iran, and Turkiye.
• Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Radicalization: Terrorists are leveraging AI for deep fake propaganda, targeted recruitment, and automated misinformation campaigns, increasing the reach of extremist ideologies.
  For example: AI-generated content on social media is being used to spread jihadist narratives, leading to the self-radicalization of individuals in Europe and the U.S.
• ‘Lone Wolf’ Attacks and Small-Scale Terrorism: There is a shift from large-scale coordinated attacks to individual-driven, low-cost attacks using vehicles, knives, and firearms.
  For example: The New Orleans truck attack (2024), where a military veteran killed 14 people with an IS flag attached to his vehicle.
• Dark Web and Encrypted Communication: Terrorists use dark web forums and encrypted apps like Telegram for fundraising, planning, and execution of attacks while evading intelligence agencies.
  For example: The Paris attacks (2015) were coordinated using encrypted messaging apps, bypassing conventional surveillance mechanisms.
• Emergence of Hybrid Terror Groups: New tech-savvy terror groups combine conventional insurgency tactics with cyber warfare and digital propaganda, creating a hybrid threat landscape.
  For example: The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has started using cyber warfare techniques alongside physical attacks in Pakistan and India.

Changing Dynamics of Global Terrorism

• Shift from Regional to Global Operations: Earlier region-specific groups like ISIS and al-Qaeda are now targeting a broader international audience through online radicalization.
  For example: The ISKP has targeted Russia, Iran, and the U.S., indicating an expanded operational range.
• Terrorist Financing Through Cryptocurrencies: With global banking surveillance tightening, terror groups use Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies for untraceable funding.
  For example: Hamas and ISIS have been found using crypto wallets to transfer funds anonymously across borders.
• Exploitation of Conflict Zones: Terrorists thrive in unstable regions like Syria, Afghanistan, and West Africa, using civil wars to establish operational bases.
  For example: Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) has capitalized on Yemen’s civil war to expand its influence.
• Radicalization of Migrants and Refugees: Extremist networks infiltrate refugee populations, turning displaced individuals into recruits for jihadist movements.
  For example: European countries have witnessed radicalized refugees involved in terror attacks, such as the Berlin Christmas Market attack (2016).
• Increased Targeting of Soft and Cyber Infrastructure: Modern terrorism prioritizes attacking transport, power grids, and cyber systems over traditional military targets.
  For example: Cyber-attacks on Ukraine’s power grid (2015) were attributed to state-sponsored and jihadist hackers.

Implications of Global Terrorism for India’s Internal Security

• Cross-Border Terrorism and Pakistan’s Role: India faces terror threats from Pakistan-based groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), often inspired by global jihadist networks.
  For example: The Pulwama attack (2019), where JeM carried out a suicide bombing, killing 40 CRPF personnel.
• Radicalization of Indian Youth: Online jihadist propaganda has influenced some Indian youth, leading to recruitment into foreign terror organizations.
  For example: Several Indian nationals from Kerala joined ISIS and fought in Syria and Afghanistan.
• Terrorist Attacks on Urban Centers: Metro cities remain prime targets due to symbolic and economic significance, leading to enhanced security risks.
  For example: The 26/11 Mumbai attacks (2008), where LeT executed coordinated strikes across Mumbai.
• Insurgency in Kashmir and Northeast India: Global jihadist narratives influence militant groups in Kashmir, while Northeast insurgents receive foreign support.
  For example: The Nagaland Ambush (2021), where insurgents targeted security forces, highlights the persistent threat in the Northeast.
• Cyber-Terrorism and Fake News Warfare: Terrorists manipulate social media and hack Indian digital infrastructure, leading to communal unrest and misinformation-driven violence.

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Way Forward

• Strengthening Cyber Surveillance and AI-Based Countermeasures: India should develop AI-driven surveillance tools to track online radicalization and prevent cyber-terrorism.
  For example: The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) monitors dark web activity to counter digital extremism.
• International Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: Enhanced intelligence-sharing with U.S., EU, and Middle East nations can help India tackle transnational terror threats.
  For example: India-U.S. Homeland Security Dialogue focuses on counter-terror cooperation and cyber security.
• Community-Based De-Radicalization Programs: Engaging local religious leaders, educators, and social workers can prevent vulnerable youth from radicalization.
  For example: Maharashtra’s ‘De-radicalization Camps’ have successfully rehabilitated individuals exposed to jihadist ideology.
• Upgrading Border Security and Counter-Terror Operations: Advanced drone surveillance, biometric tracking, and satellite monitoring can prevent infiltration.
  For example: India deployed Israel’s Heron drones along the Pakistan and China borders for real-time intelligence.
• Countering Terror Financing Through Financial Intelligence: India must implement stringent regulations on crypto transactions and enhance financial monitoring mechanisms.
  For example: The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-IND) has been tracking Hawala and crypto transactions linked to terror outfits.

Countering terror requires a multi-pronged approach, leveraging technology to combat digital radicalization, strengthening global intelligence sharing, and enhancing community-driven de-radicalization programs. India must prioritize cybersecurity innovation, robust border management, and inclusive governance to address grievances. “Prevention through preparedness” should be the mantra to build a resilient nation against evolving terror dynamics.

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