Answer

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the nodal agency for internal security in India, has historically been reactive to crises like insurgencies and communal riots. However, in recent years, driven by increasing cyber threats, cross-border terrorism, and demands for good governance, the MHA has adopted a preventive and reform-oriented approach, evident in initiatives like ICJS and criminal law reforms.

Evolution of India’s Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)

• From Reactive to Preventive: MHA evolved from addressing unrest post-factum to proactively preventing threats through institutional and legislative reforms.
  For example: Post-2019, over 27 legislative reforms, including the amendments to UAPA and NIA Acts, were introduced to structurally counter terrorism and pre-empt internal threats.
  
• Integrated Security Framework: The Ministry now integrates security functions with federal governance, fostering a unified and future-ready internal security architecture.
  For example: The establishment of Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS) has integrated 17,130 police stations, courts, jails, and forensics labs, improving nationwide coordination.
  
• Use of Technology: Adoption of modern technology has shifted the MHA’s focus from manpower-heavy policing to intelligence-led governance.
  For example: Creation of tech databases and revamp of the Multi-Agency Centre (MAC) has improved inter-agency coordination through the “duty to share” intelligence approach.
  
• Stable Leadership: Consistent leadership under PM Modi has enabled long-term planning, unlike frequent ministerial changes during earlier governments.
  For example: Under Modi’s tenure, the Ministry maintained stable leadership, allowing deep reforms like the enactment of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita without policy disruptions.
  
• Shift in Budget Priorities: The budget increase reflects MHA’s transformation into a strategic body focusing on modernisation and reform-driven governance.
  For example: The MHA budget rose from ₹1 lakh crore in 2019 to ₹2.33 lakh crore in 2025, enabling investment in technology, forensics, and paramilitary forces.

Impact on Internal Security and Governance in India

• Violence Reduction in Hotspots: Structural reforms have resulted in a measurable decrease in violence in Kashmir, the North-East, and Naxal-affected areas.
  For example: 70% drop in violence was observed across major conflict zones; stone pelting incidents in Kashmir have drastically declined since Article 370 was diluted.
  
• Stronger Legal Framework: Updated criminal laws and definitions of terrorism have created a robust and predictable legal environment for law enforcement.
  For example: The new criminal codes like Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam and redefined terrorism under UAPA ensure clear legal recourse and reduce loopholes for offenders.
  
• Enhanced Police Efficiency: With better infrastructure and data-driven policing, state forces are more capable of handling law and order independently.
  For example: States using CCTNS and forensic separation now conduct more accurate investigations, reducing their dependence on central forces like RAF or CRPF.
  
• Boost to Federalism: MHA’s role in facilitating Centre-State coordination has improved governance in sensitive areas through a cooperative security mechanism.
  For example: Provisions under Articles 355 and 256 are now used not just for intervention, but to guide and empower states in managing internal security effectively.
  
• Improved Crisis Preparedness: Agencies under MHA, like NCB and Disaster Management units, now work on preparedness and prevention rather than emergency reaction.
  For example: The integration of Disaster Management within MHA has ensured structured, pre-emptive disaster protocols, visible in cyclone and pandemic responses.

Way Ahead

• Focus on Cybersecurity: MHA must invest in cyber resilience as threats increasingly emerge from digital platforms targeting national infrastructure and citizens.
  
• Community Policing Models: Encouraging public involvement in security through awareness, vigilance programs and local partnerships can build trust and prevent radicalization.
  
• Decentralise Intelligence Sharing: Intelligence networks should be localised for faster response, with real-time access provided to district and city-level enforcement bodies.
  
• Train and Equip CAPFs: Continued professional development, mental health support, and modern equipment for Central forces will improve operational outcomes and reduce stress.
  
• Institutionalise Review Mechanisms: Establish periodic review systems for all MHA schemes and laws to ensure timely updates and eliminate inefficiencies.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has evolved into a forward-looking institution, emphasizing preventive frameworks, technological integration, and institutional coordination. Strengthening grassroots intelligence, capacity-building, and inter-agency synergy will be crucial to ensure resilient internal security architecture and responsive governance in the years ahead.

DOWNLOAD PDF