Improve technology to detect IEDs

May 8, 2023

Context:

Ten jawans and a civilian driver, who were returning in a van following an anti-Maoist operation, were killed in a blast caused by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada on April 26.

It was so forceful, it created a huge crater on the road.

Potential of IEDs:

IEDs are among the most potent tools deployed by the Maoists. Even a small formation of the Maoists can cause huge damage to the security forces by using an IED.

Indication by Latest Reports:

It indicates that the current focus of the Maoists is to intensify the use of booby traps, snipers (with telescopes) and remote IEDs.
The technical department of the Maoists seems to have gradually developed technology to remotely blast the IEDs.

Limitations of detecting IEDs:

Mine detectors may fail to find IEDs with low metal quantity or planted deep under the road.
Ground-penetrating radar not always successful and susceptible to generating false alarms.

Violation of International Humanitarian Laws:

India is a signatory to the Geneva and Hague Conventions which regulate the means employed during warfare, so that casualties are checked.
The Maoists deliberately and grossly violate international humanitarian laws — the use of landmines is banned internationally as they are non-discriminatory, lack precision and cause unnecessary or excessive suffering.
It is well known that in addition to the security forces, many civilians, including children, and animals have also been victims of IED attacks.

Need of the hour:

As not much research and development has been undertaken in this field, the Central government and industry must join hands to improve technology to detect IEDs.
The Central government must amend rules and make the manufacturers accountable for unique identification of detonators.

Way Forward:

India should raise the issue of Maoist use of IEDs at international platforms to force them to respect international laws and stop using these devices.
The central government and industry must collaborate to improve IED detection technology and hold manufacturers accountable for unique identification of detonators.
The use of vehicles should be permitted only after securing the road from ambushes and IEDs.
A visual search must be carried out cautiously or deep enough to check the presence of suspicious elements or wire ends.
The use of technology such as unmanned aerial vehicles and drones may be useful to check suspicious movement, but the security forces need to improve their tactics too.