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.