Answer:

Introduction:

Terrorism, an insidious threat to national security, disrupts social harmony and economic stability. Curbing this menace requires a multifaceted strategy encompassing both preventive and reactive measures.

Body:

Solutions to Curb Terrorism:

• Enhanced Intelligence and Surveillance: Improving intelligence gathering and sharing, coupled with sophisticated surveillance, can preempt terrorist activities. For example, agencies like India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the US’s Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) leverage advanced digital surveillance to preempt threats.
• International Cooperation: Cross-border terrorism necessitates robust international cooperation for information sharing, extradition, and concerted counter-terrorism efforts. For example, the UN’s International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism promotes international cooperation against terrorism.
• Financial Oversight: Enhanced oversight of financial transactions can prevent funding of terrorist activities. For example, The Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an intergovernmental organization, has set global standards to combat money laundering and terrorism financing.
• Countering Radicalization: Educational and social programs aimed at preventing radicalization can play a crucial role in deterring potential recruits. For example, Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad’s Operation Chakravyuh aims at deradicalizing youth influenced by extremist ideologies.

Major Sources of Terrorist Funding:

• Illegal Drug Trade: The illicit drug trade often provides a substantial portion of terrorist organizations’ funding.
• Money Laundering: Terrorist organizations often use complex money laundering schemes to obscure the sources of their funding.
• Kidnapping and Ransom: Kidnapping for ransom is another source of funds for several terrorist groups.
• State-Sponsored Terrorism: Some terrorist organizations receive funding from states that support their objectives, further complicating the battle against terrorism.

Conclusion:

Tackling terrorism is a complex task that requires both proactive and reactive strategies at the national and international levels. By addressing the roots of terrorism, enhancing intelligence efforts, promoting international cooperation, and staunching the flow of funds, it is possible to significantly undermine the scourge of terrorism.