The recent Anti-Terror Conference 2024 highlighted the crucial role of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in India’s counter-terrorism efforts.
- The Union Home Secretary emphasised the importance of capacity building at the state level, urging states to send competent officers to the NIA for training and experience at the
- This move aims to enhance investigative capabilities and foster a robust counter-terrorism culture across the country.
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About NIA
- Established in 2008 under the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act, 2008 as a counter-terrorism agency.
- It is tasked with investigating offences that threaten India’s sovereignty, security, and integrity, including terrorism, extremism, and organised crime.
Key Roles and Objectives of the NIA
- Investigating Terrorist Activities: It investigates terrorist attacks, plots, and conspiracies.
- Coordinating with State and Central Agencies: The agency coordinates with state police forces and other central agencies to share intelligence and coordinate investigations.
- Capacity Building: The NIA conducts training programs for state police officers to enhance their skills in counter-terrorism investigations.
- International Cooperation: The NIA collaborates with foreign intelligence agencies to track down terrorists and dismantle their networks.
NIA’s Structure
- Director General: The Director General is the head of the NIA.
- Special Directors: Special Directors oversee various departments within the agency.
- Inspector General: Inspector General’s head regional offices and zonal units.
- Superintendent of Police: Superintendents of Police lead investigation teams.
- Intelligence Officers: Intelligence officers gather and analyse intelligence.
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Jurisdictions of NIA
- All-India Coverage: The NIA operates across the entire territory of India, with its powers extending to all states and union territories.
- Global Reach for Indian Citizens: The NIA’s jurisdiction includes Indian citizens outside of India, allowing the agency to investigate offences committed abroad by or against Indian nationals.
- Government Employees Worldwide: Indian government employees are subject to the NIA’s jurisdiction regardless of their location globally.
- Indian Ships and Aircraft: The NIA’s authority extends to any crimes committed on Indian-registered ships or aircraft, regardless of where these vessels or aircraft may be located.
- Extraterritorial Crimes: The agency has the authority to investigate offences committed beyond Indian borders if they:
- Involve an Indian citizen,
- Affect Indian interests,
- Involve crimes specified under the NIA’s schedule, which includes terrorism and other serious offences against the nation.